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In This Issue:
Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises Crystal Esprit
1. Overview
2. Accommodations
3. Restaurants and Bars
4. Onboard Entertainment
5. Fitness
6. Water Sports
7. Shore Excursions
8. Getting Ashore
9. Families
11. Business Services
12. Full Ship Charters
13. Recent Awards
14. Key Contact
15. Our Most Popular Special Reports
Worth Reading:
Cruise Like You’re On A Superyachts - Crystal Esprit
1.
OVERVIEW:
Crystal Esprit is
Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises entry into the “yacht” segment of the cruise market sitting in
the wide gap between chartering a super yacht and even the smaller cruise ships
that take 200-300 passengers. There are 91 crew and 62 guests, and the
passenger areas are spread across four decks. Draft is less than 10 feet
meaning you can get into the same remote coves and small harbors as
superyachts. At 270 feet long, Esprit is squarely in the upper middle of privately owned superyachts by size.
Esprit is part of
the aggressive expansion by Genting Hong Kong since it bought the line in 2015
from Japan’s NHK Shipping. With two cruise ships in the 1,000 guest range (some
liners today hold over 5,000), Crystal was a niche player in the luxury niche,
even though it annually wins top rankings and numerous “best” awards (See the
Awards Section towards the end of the report).
Watch a video to see what it’s like aboard Crystal Esprit
According to trade
publication Seatrade, “Crystal CFO Don Mason told (top producing) sales gala
attendees Genting Hong Kong is investing 'in the billions of dollars' to fuel
Crystal's growth. 'We have an outstanding team and will bring those to fruition,'
Mason said. Genting HK chairman Tan Sri KT Lim, he added, is 'incredibly
bullish on us.'”
Crystal AirCruises
will launch air tours on a luxury configured 84-seat Boeing 777-200LR later this year and since last year the line has been marketing a Bombardier Global Express for
the on-demand charter market. A series of larger ocean going ships are on
order, including residential penthouses you can buy. The line also jumped into
the river cruise segment last year with two more vessels coming this year.
Esprit originally was built in 1991 and had been in the fleet of Genting owned Star
Cruises used for full ship charters in Asia before the Crystal purchase.
It was then fully renovated top to bottom to the very high Crystal standards
and made its debut in December 2015.
The small size makes Esprit ideal for full ship charters, celebrations and business events.
On its set
itineraries, which through October are a series of Venice to Dubrovnik one-ways
that can be bought singularly for seven days or roundtrip for 14 days, Esprit will anchor in places that larger
ships can’t visit and provide a superyacht experience with its water sports
deck, wave runners, paddle boards, Zodiacs, kayaks, speedboat and
aforementioned sub. In other words, you will have pretty much the same type of
toys as the billionaire on his boat over there. This will continue starting in
November in the Caribbean using Marigot Bay on French St. Martin as the base
with mainly 7-day itineraries for the entire year, including summer 2018.
While you get the
same experiences from a water sports and access standpoint as a private yacht,
the onboard dining experience is designed to match the high caliber Crystal is
known for, particularly focused on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and new
options on a daily basis. I sailed on Crystal Mozart, the company’s entry into
river cruising in November, and found the food at the same level that you would
expect in the main dining room of a Four Seasons or Ritz-Carlton hotel. At the
same time, dress is casual chic. Aboard Esprit, life and dress is the same
relaxed feel as if you were on your own yacht.
Cruise Critic, a
website with very detailed analysis of ships right down to specific cabins
wrote of Esprit, “Bottom Line: One of the most luxurious soft adventure
cruises in the industry.” The Seatrade report quoted Crystal officials as
saying Esprit “is currently the company’s highest rated experience.”
The editor of
Cruise Critic sailed on Esprit and reported, “On numerous cruises on
Crystal's Serenity and Symphony,
we've noted the quality of its crew -- well-trained to anticipate requests,
always calling you by name, with a warm, caring manner – as a hallmark of the
Crystal experience. If possible, service is even better on Esprit.”
Cruise Critic wrote of the ship, “It's a beautiful vessel with few signs of
age. In particular, cabins on the all-suite ship are fresh, contemporary, roomy
and very comfortable. Bathrooms are absolutely beautiful with spacious showers,
dual sinks and even televisions tucked into mirrors.”
Of onboard
facilities, the editor continued, “The ship had plenty of public spaces for
lounging, like the Cove, Esprit's de facto living room -- a quiet lounge where
you could read a book by day and socialize with fellow passengers before and
after dinner. We were in port so often that there was little use of the
top-deck sundeck but it's absolutely lovely, featuring plush-covered loungers,
cozy basket-style chairs and loveseats, and even a flat screen over the plunge
pool for movies under the stars. It's remarkable to consider that the ship had
four dining options, from the elegant multi-course Yacht Club, the indoor-outdoor
Patio Café, the Grill, for burgers and salads, and 24-hour room service.”
If you or your
traveling party has mobility issues, you will want to consider there is no
elevator. If you are bound to a wheelchair or need a walker, I would not recommend
Esprit. There are also no shops like larger cruises ships, so above supplies of
things like sunscreen, toothpaste and deodorant which the ship keeps if needed,
you will need to make sure you bring everything you need in terms of
toiletries and clothes. At the same time, for a small ship, she has a casino, gym and
sauna.
Esprit has
received positive reviews from a number of respected journalists. Nathan Lump,
editor of Travel + Leisure wrote, “The yacht experience will also attract
newcomers for whom the big ships don't jibe.” He noted, Esprit is “ideal for
big family celebrations or corporate meetings.” Esprit was named to Robb
Report’s “Best of the Best” for 2016 and Laurie Kahle wrote, Esprit “offers a
more youthful atmosphere than many traditional ships, with contemporary
nautical decor and such energetic shore excursions as zip-lining and
wakeboarding…Executive chef Adam Jenkins (formerly of the Ritz London) and his
team focus on native ingredients from local ports for the eclectic and elegant
menu at the Yacht Club restaurant.”
There were only
six consumer reviews on Cruise Critic, with one guest writing what was typical
of the others, “The decor was lovely, understated elegance with soothing
colors. There was a very nice flow to the ship and it 'lived' bigger than what
it is. You could always find a nook or cranny to sit and read. We also enjoyed
the Yacht Club - it really felt like a cozy living room and was such a
comfortable place to relax with a pre-dinner drink with new friends and listen
to Mark entertaining on the piano.”
Another guest who
was a veteran of luxury cruise line Seabourn wrote, “There is nothing we could complain about. It
is the wonderful Seabourn experience with a fraction of the guests, leading to
close comradeship among us all. Seemingly no detail was left out, and no
service request denied. Pants pressed in an hour? Free and no problem. We would
return to the Esprit in a heartbeat.”
2. ACCOMMODATIONS:
In addition to the
Owner’s Suite, Mary Jean Tully, a top seller of luxury cruises, says for
clients who want extra space she recommends taking two connecting cabins. All
accommodations come with butler and twice-daily housekeeping, although my
experience is you can get your room cleaned on-demand whenever you wish. When I was aboard, our maid untangled all my girlfriend
Owner’s Suite (1 in this category)
The Owner’s Suite (209) is the largest cabin at 515 sq. ft. and is located on Deck 2, Seabreeze Deck. There is a King
bed and occupancy is 2 adults with third berth by request (pull-out sofa bed).
There is a full-length mirror, stone flooring throughout dining room, a bar
with under-counter built-in fridge, dining table for four with pendant lighting,
custom closet with integrated lighting, console/desk with upholstered bench
underneath, stone threshold between dining and living room, refrigerator and
Nespresso coffee machine. There is also an interactive bedside iPad, including
alarm clock, digital information, and room service.
Yacht Suite S1 (14)
These suites (280 sq. ft.) are located on Deck 3, the Horizon Deck. Each suite features a King Bed convertible to two twins except for Suite 307 which is a non-convertible Queen. There is also a self-service laundry directly adjacent to 307. Suites 301 and 303 as well as 302 and 306 can be connected to form 2-bedroom suites.
Features in S1, S2 and S3 categories are the same. There is custom carpet throughout, modern nightstands with integrated outlets (110V/240V) and sconces above for personal reading. There is a 42-inch flat screen, HDTV. Bedside is an interactive iPad, with various features including alarm clock, digital information, room service. The seating area includes aide table with table lamps, sofa with adjustable-height table for dining. There is a desk with shelving and integrated lighting above and a concealed minibar fridge with shelving and concealed lighting. There is a full-height hanging closet with interior lighting and separate double-hanging closet also with interior lighting. There is also a Nespresso Coffee machine.
The bathroom features built-in storage for bathroom amenities, double vanity with under-mount sink, backlit mirror, stone flooring, glass-enclosed shower, hair dryer and ETRO slippers, robes and amenities.
Yacht Suite S2 (12)
These suites are all on Seabreeze Deck (2) and are also 280 sq. ft. and the same layout as category S1. Suites 205 and 207 can be connected to form a 2-bedroom suite.
Yacht Suite S3 (2)
This category (Suites 222 and 217) are the same layout as S1 and S2 located on the Seabreeze deck.
Yacht Suite S4 (2)
Tully recommends these two suites (201 and 202) as more suitable for single travelers at 223 sq. ft., although by standards of yachts and many cruise ships, they are still well-sized cabins. One Cruise Critic reviewer who sailed in Suite 201 wrote, "We had one of the smallest cabins on the ship but it was less tight than I expected given the size of this ship. Beautifully appointed in every way. Reasonable hanging space but a bit short on drawers/shelves - pack accordingly!”
3.
RESTAURANTS AND BARS:
All of the reviews
on Esprit agree dining is a highlight, and my experience with Crystal is
consistent with these assessments.
Cruise Critic
said, “Food was 100% up to Crystal standards and thus FABULOUS. The executive
chef on board touches every plate. He runs a very tidy kitchen too! All the
drinks are included, and we were impressed by the quality and selection of the
‘free’ wines on the list too.”
One passenger
reviewing the ship wrote the following, which was typical of comments. “Dining
experience and the food - out of this world. First time I ever decided to
return to ship while on a cruise when I had plenty of time ashore…Breakfast
buffet was a visual treat to begin with and the staff noted the special dishes
for each morning along with the beautiful spread on the buffet.”
No reservations
are needed. It’s open seating at all restaurants. Kosher dining is not
available.
The Yacht Club Restaurant
The Yacht Club
Restaurant serves contemporary and classic specialties as well as tasting menus
created by Crystal's and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The Terrace and Patio Café
The Terrace and
Patio Café (on Crystal Deck - 2nd from top) offers freshly prepared and, where possible, regionally inspired
presentations of small plates, creative salads, gourmet charcuterie, cheeses
and pastries; serving breakfast and lunch indoor and outdoors.
The Grill
The Grill (on the top deck) features
a menu of burgers, wraps and, location permitting, “global street
food” served tapas-style to reflect the destinations visited.
The Pantry (next to reception) is a self-service bistro and wine bar open 24 hours a day with a wide selection of coffees, vintage wines, light snacks and freshly baked pastries.
Sunset Bar
One of the fun parts of being on your superyacht is al fresco drinks to end the day, in the afternoon, or even earlier in the day. Sunset Bar on the top deck is the place you will literally be able to reach out and cheers to other yachters on nearby vessels.
The Cove
When you want to get of the sun and into the cool air conditioning to enjoy a mixed drink, glass of wine or after dinner aperitif, The Cove is a good solution with areas where just the two of you can converse or you can talk about the day’s conquests with friends.
Inclusions
Complimentary
wines, champagne and premium spirits throughout the yacht, open-bar service
throughout the yacht, gratuities for all shipboard staff throughout the yacht,
non-alcoholic beverages including bottled water, specialty coffee drinks, soft
drinks, fresh juices and Afternoon Tea service, and 24-hour room service.
4.
ONBOARD ENTERTAINMENT:
There is insight
and immersion from Esprit’s “Destination Leader” about the places you will be
visiting. The Cove Lounge isavailab le for viewing movies, sporting events, and
nightly entertainment with piano player/singer. There is a small casino.
5. FITNESS:
The Crystal Esprit
fitness area (on the top deck) includes Technogym equipment, a treadmill, stationary bicycle,
elliptical machine and Kinesis machine as well as free weights. Mats for
outdoor stretch, yoga and Pilates are available. In ports, top-quality bicycles
will be available. Virtually everyday you’ll be able to find routes for
walking, hiking, jogging or running ashore.
6.
WATER SPORTS:
The Crystal Esprit features a marina and water sports platform at the stern
where guests enjoy swimming and snorkeling; kayaking or wake boarding; jet
skiing, fishing, snorkel and other activities. All these activities feature
high-end equipment and guided instruction.
Esprit has the following equipment for complimentary use:
• (1) Water skis
• (1) Wakeboard
• (2) Paddleboards
• (3) Ocean Kayaks – Malibu Two XL tandem kayak
• (1) Ocean Kayak - Caper Classic 2015
• (2) Skidoo Jet Skis
• (2) Zodiacs – 10 guests each + Operator
• (1) Rescue-spotter Craft
• (1) Free Style Cruiser (5m x 5m)
• Snorkel Equipment
• Available for use at additional cost: (1) Submarine – U-Boat and Wider 32 C Superyacht
Tender
7. SHORE EXCURSIONS:
While in some
ports, you’ll simply want to take advantage of a cozy beach, in many places
cultural adventures and adventures from soft to extreme will be offered on a
complimentary basis. Bikes are also available if you want to peddle off on your
own.
Some examples of what you can do include hiking the hillsides above the
medieval town of Kotor, Montenegro or the yacht enclave of Hvar, Croatia;
snorkeling in a pristine Dalmatian cove; swimming directly from the water sports
marina of the yacht to a nearby shore, a pick-up volleyball game on the beach
and waterskiing or tubing behind the yacht’s runabout. There are both soft
and extreme adventures. Among passenger comments is that the latter are truly
made for those of us in good shape.
8.
GETTING ASHORE
Mainly Esprit docks or anchors in yacht marinas or along the seawall in the center of a historic town or resort village. In other places, it uses itws Zodiac landing craft to where docks and piers do not exist.
9. FAMILIES
There are no
special activities or services designated for youngsters, so children who are
comfortable in the company of adults are welcome aboard. Many suites can
accommodate a third berth (on request). Because of the emphasis on relaxation,
soft adventure, active water sports activity and exploring new destinations, it
is recommended that children be 12 years of age or older.
Until September 24
Esprit does 7-day one ways between Dubrovnik and Venice you can combine for a
14-day cruise. There are also a couple itineraries starting and ending in
Athens in late September and early October. Among the places visited are Marco
Polo home Korčula, the island of Hvar, Rovinj, Sibenik, Vis, and UNESCO World
Heritage site Trogir.
From Nov. 12,
Esprit moves to the Caribbean and sails from Marigot Bay on the French side of
St. Martin. Ports include Gustavia, St. Barts; Jost Van Dyke, BVI; Gorda Sound,
BVI; Scrub Island, BVI; Tortola, BVI; Anegada, BVI; Peter Island, BVI; Salt
Island, BVI; Coconut Grove and South Friars Bay, Nevis; Basse Terre, St. Kitts;
Deshaies, Guadeloupe; Rendezvous Bay, Montserrat; Plymouth and Little Bay,
Montserrat; Falmouth, Antigua; and Saba, Dutch Antilles.
11. BUSINESS SERVICES:
There are conference and meeting facilities available and internet access.
Wi-Fi service and
satellite Internet access is complimentary. All onboard Internet traffic
travels from the yacht to a satellite before returning back to earth to load
web pages. While aboard, there is no local high-speed Internet provider such as
you would have at home. Skype, iChat, FaceTime and other similar services are
not available on board.
Esprit is equipped
with a telephone system that allows you to make direct-dial satellite phone
calls from your stateroom.
12. FULL SHIP CHARTERS:
Contact the line directly for customized pricing.
13. RECENT AWARDS:
Andrew Harper's
Hideaway Report
Reader's Choice Award - Top Cruise Line: Crystal Cruises (2016)
Condé Nast
Traveler Magazine
Gold List – World’s Best (1997-2014, 2016-2017)
Reader’s Choice Award – Best Cruise Line (1992-1993, 1995-2005, 2007-2016)
Cruise Critic
Cruise Critic Editor’s Pick - Best New River Ship - Crystal Mozart (2016)
Cruise Critic Editors' Pick - Best Cruise Line for Luxury (2015)
Cruise Critic UK Editor's Pick - Best New River Ship - Crystal Mozart
(2016)
Porthole Cruise
Magazine
Readers Choice Award – Best Onboard Enrichment (2016)
Editor-in-Chief Award – Most Groundbreaking Cruise Company (2016)
Editor-in-Chief Award – Best Cruise Director: Gary Hunter (2016)
Robb Report
Magazine
Best of the Best: Journeys - Cruises Crystal Esprit (2016)
Town & Country
Best Overall - Mainstream Luxury (2016)
Best for Families (2016)
Best for Onboard Activities (2016)
Travel + Leisure
Magazine
World’s Best Cruise Line (1996-2016)
Travel Weekly
Gold Magellan Award – Small Cruise Ship: Crystal Esprit (2016)
Gold Magellan Award – Restaurant Design: Crystal Esprit (2016)
Gold Magellan Award – Suite Design: Crystal Esprit (2016)
Silver Magellan Award – River Cruise Ship: Crystal Mozart (2016)
Silver Magellan Award – Luxury Ship: Crystal Symphony (2016)
Silver Magellan Award – Mid-Size Cruise Ship: Crystal Serenity (2016)
Silver Magellan Award – Mid-Size Cruise Ship: Crystal Symphony (2016)
Best Luxury Cruise
Line (2015, 2016)
TravelAge West
Magazine
Editor's Pick -
Best On Board Dining (2016)
U.S. News & World Report
Best Luxury Cruise Line (Gold Award: 2014, 2015, 2016)
Best Luxury Cruise Line for Couples (Gold Award: 2016)
14. VIP CONTACT:
Kris Endreson, Director at kendreson@crystalcruises.com or 201-602-9296
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