Miami, Florida, August 05, 2026

Crystal Announces Effectiveness of Contract with Fincantieri for Third Ocean Ship

Third Newbuild Reinforces Crystal's Long-Term Growth Strategy with Delivery Scheduled for May 2034

MONACO/MIAMI -- (Aug. 5, 2026) – Crystal, the leader in exceptional cruise experiences, announced today that the contract for the construction of the third next-generation ocean ship by renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri has become effective. The vessel, scheduled for delivery in 2034, is covered by the option exercised in 2024 and reflects Crystal's continued investment in the future of luxury cruising.

The new vessel will join Crystal Grace, currently under construction at Fincantieri's Marghera shipyard, scheduled to debut in 2028, along with her sister ship arriving in May 2031. Together, the three ships will represent the next evolution of Crystal's renowned approach to exceptional service, spacious design and immersive luxury travel.

Like her sister ships, the new vessel will accommodate 650 guests (based on double occupancy) and measure approximately 62,000 gross tons. Thoughtfully designed by renowned international architectural firms, the ship will feature spacious all-veranda suites, including an expansive Owner's Suite and new categories created to meet evolving guest preferences including solo travelers. Every accommodation is designed to maximize space, comfort and connection to the sea, complemented by one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios in luxury cruising to deliver Crystal's signature personalized service.

The ship will blend timeless elegance with contemporary innovation through expansive indoor and outdoor spaces designed for effortless luxury living. Guests will enjoy a full wrap-around promenade inspired by the beloved walkways aboard Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, beautiful open-air venues and inviting outdoor spaces for relaxation and socializing. Outdoor dining terraces will allow guests to enjoy specialty restaurants al fresco while taking in panoramic ocean views, further strengthening Crystal's connection between exceptional cuisine and life at sea.

“Seeing Crystal Grace move from vision to reality has been tremendously rewarding, and today's announcement demonstrates our unwavering confidence in Crystal's future. This third ship reflects our long-term commitment to the brand and to our guests, who continue to inspire us to raise the standard for luxury cruising around the world."

Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, Executive Chairman of A&K Travel Group

Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group, added, “The response to Crystal Grace has exceeded our expectations, reaffirming the demand for authentic, exceptional travel experiences. With each new ship, we are building on Crystal's legacy while thoughtfully evolving the experience for a new generation of luxury travelers.”

"The effectiveness of the contract signed back in 2024 is a testament to the strength of our partnership with Crystal and A&K Travel Group and reflects our shared commitment to innovation, craftsmanship and excellence,” commented Luigi Matarazzo, General Manager of the Fincantieri Merchant Ships Division. "We are proud to continue building a new generation of luxury ships that combine Italian shipbuilding expertise with Crystal's uncompromising vision for exceptional hospitality at sea."

The announcement builds on significant momentum for Crystal, including the successful steel-cutting ceremony for Crystal Grace, the opening of bookings for her inaugural 2028 season and continued strong demand for the brand's expanding portfolio of global itineraries.

To learn more about the new ships, or book any of Crystal’s exceptional itineraries, contact your travel advisor, visit crystalcruises.com or call 1-800-446-6620.

About Crystal

For more than three decades, Crystal has been synonymous with exceptional, award-winning voyages. In 2022, AKTG (Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group) acquired the Crystal brand and its two vessels, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, ushering in a new era of being ‘Exceptional at Sea’ following a $170 million refurbishment of the two ships. The globally renowned cruise line offers discerning travelers industry-leading, authentic, and enriching experiences both onshore and at sea. Crystal’s pioneering partnership with Abercrombie & Kent provides guests with unparalleled access to the most sought-after experiences and destinations around the world. The reimagined ships boast larger, updated suites with artisanal finishes, and almost one member of crew per guest.

Crystal is home to the first-ever Casino de Monte-Carlo at sea as part of an exclusive partnership with Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (SBM), and world-class dining includes Umi Uma®, the only dining experience at sea by chef Nobu (Nobuyuki Matsuhisa), and the only Beefbar on the ocean, a collaboration with visionary restaurateur Riccardo Giraudi, and a specially curated Osteria d’Ovidio menu by three-time Michelin-starred Italian chef Massimiliano and celebrated restaurateur Raffaele Alajmo. The ships also feature cutting-edge wellness at the Aurōra Spa, and spectacular entertainment including Broadway-standard shows. With a legacy of unrivaled service and commitment to sophistication and elegance at every touchpoint, once onboard guests feel as if they are perfectly at home.

About A&K Travel Group Ltd.

A&K Travel Group is a global lifestyle and travel company that sets the standard for refined and personalized travel experiences. These include Abercrombie & Kent, Crystal, Cox & Kings and Ecoventura. A&K Travel Group Ltd. Belongs to Heritage Group, the investment holding of the Lefebvre d’Ovidio family which is active in various sectors such as technology, consumer goods, pharmacies, biotech and others. 

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FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES:

USA/ The Americas

Robyn Fink, [email protected]

Australasia

Michelle Mickan, [email protected]

UK

Kate Selley, [email protected]

A&K Travel Group:

James Treacy, [email protected]