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Published on 06/09/2025
Our 35th anniversary celebrations have officially begun! Last night saw the first of special welcome gala in honor of the occasion, taking place onboard Crystal Symphony as she sat in Palma, Mallorca, bathed in the honeyed light of the Mediterranean sun.
A glittering cocktail party in Crystal Cove kicked off the celebrations in dazzling style, with special cocktails – including a gin and limoncello concoction with ‘35’ dusted in cinnamon on the top – live music, and speeches from former captains Helge Brudvik and John Oekland, and former cruise director Paul McFarland, plus Chairman Emiritus Geoffrey Kent, all of whom are on this special anniversary sailing.
They were greeted by big cheers from the assembled crowd, many of whom have fond memories of sailing in their company over the years. “The smiles are real because they come from inside,” said Paul McFarland to applause. “It’s not a birthday; anniversaries are about a relationship – in this case between the people of Crystal and all the people who come to join us,” he added. “Once you are Crystallized, you are part of us forever.”
While Paul was happy to reminisce about his experiences onboard, he suggested guests do a shore excursion if they want to know anything about what’s on land. “I had trouble finding the cathedral today,” he joked – Palma’s famed sight is right on the waterfront and is hard to miss.
After the speeches, the band started up and dancers in sequins and feathers took to the floor, signalling the start of the celebrations. The first song was “September” by Earth, Wind and Fire. With its repeated refrain “do you remember?” it was a fitting choice given the memories fondly shared among the gathered guests. No doubt many new ones will be made over the days to come.
Want to join our next 35th anniversary sailing? Click here for details.
