Good news, cruisers. Crystal released new details and images of its upcoming expedition yacht, Crystal Endeavor, during a press briefing at Seatrade Cruise Global in Fort Lauderdale. Crystal President and CEO Tom Wolber shared some of the distinct design features planned for the yacht.
“Crystal’s entrance into the expedition cruising industry is a natural response to the demand from an increasing segment of travelers, craving more immersive and active experiences in lesser known destinations around the world,” Wolber said.
At 19,800 GRT, the all-suite, purpose-built polar class yacht will include restaurants and public spaces that guests have long enjoyed aboard Crystal’s ocean ships, as well as new spots specifically designed for expedition cruising, Crystal said. The dining experience aboard Crystal Endeavor will aim to remain true to the cuisine offered on all Crystal Ocean, Yacht and River vessels, with all-inclusive dining, fine wines and premium spirits offered throughout.
Specialty restaurants will include Prego, which serves traditional Italian fare, and will also host Crystal’s signature “Vintage Room” winemaker dinners; and Umi Uma, serving signature sushi and specialties from Master Chef Nobu Matsuhisa. Additionally, the yacht will have the main dining venue, Waterside; the Asian-inspired Silk Kitchen & Bar, located in the two-story solarium during the evenings; and the European-inspired Bistro Café, which will offer full service breakfast and lunch, as well as freshly brewed espresso and teas.
The Palm Court – a hub for afternoon tea, cocktails, dancing and floor-to-ceiling views aboard Crystal’s ocean and river ships – will be on board Crystal Endeavor for evening entertainment, as well as enrichment presentations and classes. Other social spaces will be the Connoisseur Club cigar lounge; Crystal Cove, the heart of the ship where guests will gather for varied guest speakers, pre-dinner cocktails and late-night entertainment; and a casino.
Enrichment venues will include the Captain’s Lounge, the Expedition Lounge, the Helicopter Lounge and the Library. The Promenade will stretch from Crystal Cove to Waterside and be a more intimate space for guests to enjoy cocktails, conversation and views. Additionally, Crystal’s onboard boutiques, Apropos and Facets, will offer designer and fine jewelry shopping.
Wellness options will include a fully-equipped fitness center, and the dedicated Crystal Life Spa & Crystal Life Salon will have three treatment rooms, separate men’s and women’s steam and sauna facilities, a relaxation room and full-service salon services. The two-story solarium pool deck will be enclosed under a glass-domed roof. Additionally, expansive mud rooms are designed to accommodate preparation for the day’s adventures and offer cleaning of boots and equipment upon guests’ return from a day exploring ashore.
Crystal Endeavor’s PC6 designation will enable it to operate in summer and autumn through medium first-year ice. The ship will also incorporate a number of technological advancements, including offshore dynamic positioning capabilities.
Crystal marked the steel cutting milestone for the 100-suite Crystal Endeavor in January with the expedition yacht set to debut in 2020. Details and images of the vessels accommodations, marina, itineraries and on-sale date will be announced at a later date.
This story originally appeared on www.travelagentcentral.com.
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