Crystal Cruises have announced the cancellation of the remainder of its 2020 ocean and river sailings in response to the ongoing global health pandemic. Full statement below:
“Like all travel enthusiasts, we are eagerly anticipating the day we can return to sailing the world again and welcome our guests back aboard.
“Unfortunately, the constantly changing variables related to Covid-19, coupled with differing restrictions for international travel, continue to determine when and where this can happen. The uncertainty surrounding this global health crisis hinders the ability for all cruise lines to operate, and it is with deep regret that we have had to cancel all Ocean voyages (aboard Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity) and Yacht voyages (aboard Crystal Esprit) through the remainder of 2020.
“We extend our deepest apologies for this situation that is beyond our control and is a great frustration to all of us. Everyone at Crystal, along with the officers and crew of our ships fleetwide, are extremely disappointed that we were compelled to take this action as we were looking forward to exploring together.
“What is certain is Crystal’s commitment to the safety and well-being of our guests and crew above all else. While we are looking forward to welcoming our valued guests back aboard again as soon as possible, we will not do so until it is deemed safe by governing health authorities.
“We know this cancellation is extremely disappointing. In recognition of this, we are providing all affected guests with Credits equal to 125% of the cruise fare paid on fully-paid reservations – along with a refund of port charges, taxes and fees paid, and any air and hotel packages booked through Crystal. For guests who have not fully paid, the credit will then be based on the deposited amount. Credits are valid on any Crystal experience (Ocean, River, Yacht or Expedition) embarking through December 31, 2023.
“We encourage our guests to contact their travel advisor to assist them in selecting their ideal future Crystal cruise. Explore all cruise departures via our website’s Find A Voyage page to review the 2021-2023 full-year voyage collections for each Crystal experience – all are available through 2022 as is our complete 2023 Ocean Collection. Our just-launched Crystal Confidence 2.0 provides the peace of mind our guests need now when making future travel plans.
“While our fleet is paused, the Crystal team has been developing new procedures and policies that will support all public health and regulatory requirements and to ensure our guests’ vacations continue to be not only relaxing and pleasurable but safe and healthy. Building on our stringent protocols already in place, we recently launched Crystal Clean+® 2.0 – an enhanced level of measures to help safeguard the well-being of our guests and crew. Each protocol will be continually evaluated as new information becomes available.
“We thank our guests, and our partners, for their continued understanding during this very challenging time. We, the Crystal team, remain at their service.”
