In double news, Crystal Cruises has announced that the cruise line is set to be acquired by Genting Hong Kong and also plans to build a new luxury ship under the new ownership. Crystal Cruises’ current parent company, Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha, expects the $550 million acquisition to be completed in the second quarter of 2015.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of Crystal Cruises under NYK and now a bold step into the future with a newbuild on the horizon under GHK. The new ship will be the first to expand the fleet since the Crystal Serenity (pictured in the header above) was first introduced in 2003. An estimated arrival date for the new ship is not yet known.
As owner of Star Cruises and a major shareholder of Norwegian Cruise Line, GHK knows cruising and will surely bring this knowledge to the table when developing Crystal Cruises’ upcoming ship, adding to the celebrated fleet, currently consisting of Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity. Crystal says, the next ship will be, “an innovative new build that will exceed all current and on-order luxury offerings in the global cruise industry.”
Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay, Chairman, CEO and Acting President of GHK adds, “the current management team and crew will continue to lead Crystal Cruises. Genting will provide financial resources and proven expertise in innovative ship design to build a new ship that will set the highest standard in luxury cruise ships. This new ship, together with Crystal’s legendary six-star service, will reinforce Crystal Cruises’ reputation as the world’s leading luxury cruise line for decades to come.”
“After 25 successful years with NYK, we are excited to have Genting Hong Kong as the new owner of Crystal Cruises,” stated Edie Rodriguez, President and COO of Crystal Cruises. “The proposed expansion of our fleet will present our loyal Crystal Society members and new luxury cruise guests with more itinerary options, accommodation choices and exceptional vacation experiences, as we continue to position Crystal as the innovative leader in global luxury cruising. Additionally, Crystal’s veteran leadership, management and crew will continue to focus on our award-winning guest service.”
For more information, stay tuned to Popular Cruising and visit Crystal Cruises‘ website here.
HEADER IMAGE SOURCE: CRYSTAL CRUISES