Crystal, a recognised name in luxury cruising, announces the effectiveness of the contract for the construction of its third next-generation ocean ship at the Italian shipyard Fincantieri. The vessel, with delivery scheduled for 2034, corresponds to the option exercised in 2024 and confirms Crystal’s continued investment in the future of luxury cruising.
This new ship will join Crystal Grace, currently under construction at Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard, with a launch planned for 2028, as well as its sister ship expected in May 2031. Together, these three vessels will represent the next evolution of Crystal’s approach to exceptional service, spacious design and immersive luxury travel.
Like its sister ships, the new vessel will accommodate 650 guests in double occupancy, with a gross tonnage of approximately 62,000 tonnes. Designed by renowned international architecture firms, the ship will offer spacious veranda suites, including a large-scale Owner’s Suite, as well as new accommodation categories designed to meet evolving guest expectations, notably solo travellers. Each accommodation is designed to maximise space, comfort and connection to the sea, complemented by one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios in luxury cruising.
The ship will blend timeless elegance with contemporary innovation, featuring vast indoor and outdoor spaces designed for effortless luxury living. Guests will be able to enjoy a full wraparound promenade, inspired by those on Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, as well as open outdoor spaces and dining terraces offering al fresco specialty dining with panoramic ocean views.
Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, Executive Chairman of A&K Travel Group, said that seeing Crystal Grace move from concept to reality had been especially rewarding, and that this announcement demonstrates the Group’s unreserved confidence in the brand’s future. He noted that this third ship reflects the Group’s long-term commitment to the brand and its guests.
Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group, added that the reception given to Crystal Grace had exceeded the Group’s expectations, confirming demand for authentic, exceptional travel experiences, and that each new ship builds on Crystal’s legacy while evolving the experience for a new generation of luxury travellers.
Luigi Matarazzo, General Manager of Fincantieri’s Merchant Ships division, noted that the effectiveness of this contract, signed in 2024, reflects the strength of the partnership between Fincantieri, Crystal and A&K Travel Group, and their shared commitment to innovation, craftsmanship and excellence. This announcement comes amid a period of positive momentum for Crystal, marked by the steel-cutting ceremony for Crystal Grace, the opening of bookings for its inaugural 2028 season, and sustained demand across the brand’s full portfolio of international itineraries.
===AT_A_GLANCE===
At a Glance
Crystal — Third newbuild with Fincantieri – Announcement: contract effectiveness for third ocean ship – Shipyard: Fincantieri (Marghera) – Delivery: scheduled May 2034 – Fleet context: Crystal Grace (2028), sister ship (May 2031), third ship (2034) – Capacity: 650 guests (double occupancy), ~62,000 GT – Accommodation: all-veranda suites, expansive Owner’s Suite, new solo-traveler categories – Parent company: A&K Travel Group (Abercrombie & Kent)
