CRYSTAL ENDEAVOR ON TRACK TO DEBUT IN SUMMER 2021
Production for the highly anticipated luxury expedition ship recently resumed as Crystal looks ahead to new destinations and experiences for travelers
The Voice of Canada/Chandigarh News:
Crystal Endeavor, the German-built, PC6-designated vessel for Crystal Expedition Cruises is on track to debut in Summer 2021. Originally set to launch in August of 2020, the ship’s construction was delayed as the global health crisis forced a shutdown of MV WERFTEN where Crystal Endeavor is currently under construction. The shipyard has reopened fully this year and Crystal is pleased with the resumption of work on the vessel.
“While we are certainly disappointed that Crystal Endeavor’s delivery has been delayed, we are encouraged by the progress and dedication of the professionals at MV WERFTEN and are looking forward to introducing this remarkable ship,” said Jack Anderson, Crystal’s interim president and CEO. “As the most spacious and luxurious ship in the expedition market, Crystal Endeavor will offer new ways for luxury travelers to explore the world while also delivering on what Crystal does best – a design that anticipates the needs and comforts of our guests; generous public spaces and elegant suites; immersive and enriching destination experiences; world-class cuisine and, of course, warm and attentive service from the best crew in the world.”
Crystal has cancelled Crystal Endeavor voyages through May 1, 2021 and is currently reviewing the ship’s published summer itineraries. However, some of the exciting upcoming destinations planned for Crystal Endeavor include the Norwegian Fjords and Scottish Isles, France, Spain and Portugal, the Atlantic Isles and Western Africa, Brazil and Argentina, and Antarctica.
Genting Hong Kong (GHK), Crystal’s parent company, recently completed a 193-million-euro loan agreement with the German government for the completion of Crystal Endeavor and to support the operations of the shipyard through March 2021.
In December 2020, GHK announced the termination of the sale and leaseback deal of Crystal Endeavor with the aim to simplify the structure for typical export credit agency (ECA) covering post-delivery financing for the ship. This does not have any impact on the ship’s planned operations.
Crystal Endeavor will navigate some of the world’s most remote areas, where wildlife far out-measures human life and rugged landscapes punctuate the waterline. The ship will offer three dedicated categories of exploration: Remote Expedition, visiting some of the most far-flung destinations and uninhabited locales; Cultural Discovery, distinguished by an emphasis on the region and its people; and Destination Exploration, highlighting the natural wonders and beauty of the destinations.
The 20,000-GRT PC-6 expedition ship will accommodate just 200 guests with elegantly casual, generous public spaces designed to showcase the outside scenery; all-suite, all-verandah, butler-serviced guest rooms; Michelin-inspired dining options with six dining venues including Master Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s Umi Uma & Sushi Bar; full-service Crystal Life Salon & Spa and a state-of-the-art Fitness Center. Expedition-specific amenities and spaces will enhance guests’ experience, including enrichment areas, designated mud rooms, a helicopter lounge and a seven-person submersible will also be on board, allowing for deep-water explorations up to 980 feet in several areas of the world.
