Crystal Cruises resumed its ocean cruise operations on Saturday with Crystal Serenity setting sail from the Port of Nassau on its "Luxury Bahamas Escapes" itinerary, a seven-night voyage exploring the islands of the Bahamas. The ship will now homeport in the Bahamas through November, operating the unique all-Bahamian itinerary.
The occasion was marked with a Homeporting Inauguration Ceremony in Nassau by Crystal executives, Bahamian government officials, including Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar and Director General Joy Jibrilu from The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, and dignitaries from the Port of Nassau.
Guests boarding Crystal Serenity for its first voyage since spring of 2020 were given a reception by the officers, staff and crew of Crystal’s flagship. A Junkanoo parade—a lively Bahamian tradition of music, dancing and colorful costumes—entertained guests at the pier. The ship also received a water cannon salute as it left the harbor with the sounds of Crystal Cruises’ signature sail-away song “What A Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong providing a musical backdrop for this milestone moment.
"Luxury Bahamas Escapes" opened for reservations to record demand in March, according to Crystal, representing the biggest single day of bookings in the company’s history within the first 24 hours of its release. Crystal Serenity's "Luxury Bahamas Escapes" itinerary will depart round-trip from Nassau every Saturday (guests will also have the option of sailing round-trip from Bimini). The seven-day voyages will explore the island nation’s “Out Islands” also knowns as the “Family Islands” with calls in Great Exuma, San Salvador and Long Island.
The Out Islands offer impressive beaches, ocean reefs for snorkeling and diving, and a relaxed vibe. Crystal has partnered with more than 30 local Bahamian businesses to offer guests small-group experiences that are both local and authentic, with the additional goal of contributing to the reinvigoration of tourism in these island destinations.
Note: Crystal has implemented new "Crystal Clean+" protocols that address the challenges of COVID-19 with measures that include mandatory vaccination for guests and crew, COVID-19 testing at embarkation and more. Because of the mandatory vaccination requirement, guests will be able to explore ashore independently. A
Through the Crystal Pristine program, Crystal maintains a commitment to following worldwide environmental regulations and preserving the beauty of the oceans in which Crystal ships travel. In fact, the company was recently awarded the Blue Circle Award from the Port of Vancouver, which acknowledges cruise lines that voluntarily implement sustainability measures and practices that go above and beyond those required by port regulations.
Deal: Fares for Crystal’s "Luxury Bahamas Escapes" cruises start from $1,999 per guest, including $500 "Book Now" savings and $500 air savings. Guests can take advantage of $100 reduced deposits per person and will receive a $125 per person shipboard credit with Crystal Society Savings doubling to five percent; new-to-Crystal guests saving 2.5 percent; and solo fares starting at just 125 percent. Travelers with future cruise credits and future cruise payments may redeem them on these sailings.
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