Monaco, July 01, 2025
Crystal Finalizes Financing For First Two High-End Cruise Ships
Crystal, the leader in exceptional cruise experiences, today announced the successful finalization of a SACE-backed ECA financing facility for its first two state-of-the-art high-end cruise ships, marking a significant milestone in the company's fleet expansion program.
"Securing this financing represents a decisive step forward in Crystal's expansion and demonstrates the strong market confidence in our strategy," said Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio, Executive Chairman of A&K Travel Group, Crystal's parent company. "We are grateful for the trust placed in us by our banking partners, led by Citibank, N.A. London Branch, along with Banco Santander, S.A., CaixaBank, S.A., UK Branch, Cassa Depositi e Prestiti S.p.A., Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, Banca Monte Dei Paschi Di Siena S.p.a., and Bper Banca S.p.A. This consortium's backing validates our position in the ultra-luxury cruise segment."
Cristina Levis, AKTG CEO, emphasized "The SACE-backed ECA financing was made possible through the dedicated support of key Italian financial institutions. We extend our deep gratitude to the Italian Export Credit Agency SACE, under the leadership of CEO Alessandra Ricci and team leader Mariano Di Biagio, for their strategic partnership"
The company also acknowledges the essential contributions of Cassa Depositi e Prestiti, and of Simest in structuring this comprehensive financing package. The two vessels, each boasting a gross tonnage of 61,800 tons and accommodating approximately 650 passengers, represent the next generation of luxury cruising. Developed by renowned international architectural firms, the ships will feature all-suite accommodations with private verandas, including popular single occupancy categories designed for solo travelers, complemented by one of the highest crew-to-passenger ratios in the luxury cruise segment.
Thanks to the longstanding commitment of Fincantieri and the three-decade relationship between the Italian shipyard and the Lefebvre family, construction has continued as planned. The first ship is expected to be delivered in May 2028, with the second vessel following the established timeline.
This financing milestone reinforces Crystal's position as a leader in luxury cruising and demonstrates the strong confidence of the international financial community in the company's future growth and market position.
Crystal has been advised by Clifford Chance while Norton Rose Fulbright acted for both the lenders and SACE.
To view the ship rendering, click here. To view the press kit, click here.
About Crystal
For more than three decades, Crystal has been synonymous with exceptional, award-winning voyages. In 2022, A&K Travel Group (AKTG) acquired the Crystal brand and its two vessels, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, ushering in a new era of being Exceptional at Sea. 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 Michelin-rated 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 famed 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 Fincantieri
Fincantieri is one of the world’s largest shipbuilding groups, the only one active in all high-tech marine industry sectors. It is the leader in the construction and transformation of cruise, naval and oil and gas, and wind offshore vessels, as well as in the production of systems and component equipment, after-sales services and marine interiors solutions. Thanks to the expertise developed in the management of complex projects, the Group boasts first-class references in infrastructures and is a reference player in digital technologies and cybersecurity, electronics and advanced systems. With over 230 years of history and more than 7,000 ships built, Fincantieri maintains its know-how, expertise and management centres in Italy, here employing 10,000 workers and creating around 90,000 jobs, which double worldwide thanks to a production network of 18 shipyards operating in four continents and with almost 21,000 employees. For more information, visit www.fincantieri.com
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FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES:
Crystal
Robyn Fink, [email protected]
A&K Travel Group (AKTG)
James Treacy, [email protected]
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