Crystal has revealed the latest details and images of its upcoming expedition yacht, Crystal Endeavor during a press briefing at Seatrade Cruise Global held in Fort Lauderdale on March, 6th.
Crystal president and CEO, Tom Wolber, shared some of the distinct design features planned for the yacht, with a focus on Crystal’s signature abundant space and elegantly comfortable amenities. At 19,800 GRT, the all-suite, purpose-built polar class yacht will be the largest, most spacious expedition yacht in the world. While the yacht itself will bear the standard of luxury for which Crystal is celebrated, the spirit of adventure is what fuels the design of Crystal Endeavor.
“Crystal’s entrance into the expedition cruising industry is a natural response to the demand from an increasing segment of travellers, craving more immersive and active experiences in lesser-known destinations around the world,” Wolber said. “Our guests will enjoy a truly unforgettable adventure onboard Crystal Endeavor, without sacrificing the standard of excellence and luxury of the Crystal brand that they know and love.”
That standard includes restaurants and public spaces that guests have long enjoyed aboard Crystal’s ocean ships, as well as new spots specifically designed for expedition cruising.
The dining experience aboard Crystal Endeavor will remain true to the diverse menus and standard of world-class cuisine offered on all Crystal Ocean, Yacht and River vessels, with all-inclusive dining, fine wines and premium spirits offered throughout.
Speciality 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 specialities from Master Chef Nobu Matsuhisa. Additionally, the yacht will feature the elegant 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 and will be a go-to spot for freshly brewed espresso and teas.
The elegant Palm Court – a favourite 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 favoured 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 the only casino on an expedition yacht.
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 spectacular views. Additionally, Crystal’s onboard boutiques, Apropos and Facets, will offer designer and fine jewellery shopping.
Wellness options will include a fully-equipped fitness centre and the dedicated Crystal Life Spa & Crystal Life Salon will feature 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 her to operate in summer and autumn through the medium first-year ice. The ship will feature the latest technological advancements, including offshore dynamic positioning capabilities, offering both comfort and safety while exploring the icy waters in the Polar Regions as well as exotic locations across the globe.
Crystal marked the steel cutting milestone for the 100-suite Crystal Endeavor in January with the expedition yacht set to debut in 2020.
