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Inside Crystal Cruises’ evolution: A Q&A with VP Tony Archbold

Discover how Crystal Cruises is redefining luxury travel in this Q&A with Tony Archbold, VP Sales APAC. From innovative partnerships to world-class dining and upcoming world cruises, learn what makes Crystal the top choice for discerning travellers.

Discover how Crystal Cruises is redefining luxury travel in this Q&A with Tony Archbold, VP Sales APAC. From innovative partnerships to world-class dining and upcoming world cruises, learn what makes Crystal the top choice for discerning travellers.

Whether you’re a seasoned Crystal traveller or new to the brand, there’s plenty to look forward to in this evolving ultra-luxury cruise experience. Read on to learn what makes Crystal Cruises a standout choice for the most discerning travellers.

Celebrating a year of Crystal reimagined: What have been some of the highlights?

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Tony Archbold tells us the highlights from a year of Crystal reimagined.

Tony Archbold: While there have been many, I think the number one highlight has been the glowing reception from our former guests. They’re thrilled at how we’ve managed to integrate the new brand while upholding the Crystal DNA, and when they come aboard and are greeted by many of the former Crystal staff, it’s a really special moment.

To have over 85% of our team return because they wanted to stay part of the Crystal family, and to deliver a service in the way that only Crystal does, has been the key to our inaugural success. We’re also now seeing new Crystal guests returning from their maiden voyage with us and rebooking for their next cruise. That’s a statement.

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Crystal’s exceptional staff can’t wait to welcome travellers aboard.

Thirdly, watching the global team work so hard to bring our vision to life, working with our new ownership in such a quick time frame and to such a high standard; what we have achieved in a very short period has been remarkable.

Crystal continues to evolve—can you update us on what’s new?

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The stunning Casino de Monte Carlo.

Tony Archbold: Any successful brand must continue to evolve to meet the expectations of an evolving market. At Crystal, we continue to make announcements that prove we are not finished with the reimagination of our brand. Recently we announced our new partnership with Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer as we launch Casino de Monte Carlo.

Keeping a Monto Carlo theme, the arrival of Monte Carlo’s Beefbar, with the most exciting flavours from the global street food scene is an exciting addition. Our new partnership with the Alajmo brothers will bring 22 years of experience and a three-Michelin-starred rating to the menu at our fine-dining Italian restaurant Osteria d’Ovidio, raising the culinary bar of our ships to even greater heights.

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Spoil your tastebuds at the Monte Carlo’s Beefbar.

Crystal now offers the most exceptional variety and quality of entertainment and enrichment at sea, courtesy of our new space, which includes one of the industry’s largest stages. A line-up of headline acts takes centre stage, from Broadway to dance, comedy to classical music and more. This is a mere slice of our entertainment options.

Of course, the announcement of our four new ships starting in 2028 is very exciting news. At almost 62,000 tonnes but with only 690 guests, they will continue to position Crystal as the number one ultra-luxury brand with regard to space and service levels. In addition, they will have the feel of an extraordinary home at sea, as we continue to welcome home our guests.

Crystal is known for its exceptional dining—what can guests expect?

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A true taste of luxury at Nobu’s UMI UMA.

Tony Archbold: Crystal has always been known as a culinary leader in the ultra-luxury cruise market. We continue to build on that reputation as we offer exclusive-to-Crystal culinary masterpieces at Nobu’s UMI UMA, Giraudi’s Beefbar and the three-Michelin-starred Alajmo brother’s masterful menu in Osteria d’Ovidio. This is unmatched in the luxury market.

All of this is in addition to our main dining room, Waterside, which continues to offer a new menu every day, delivered with Crystal’s legendary service by our incredible staff.

How does Crystal cater to solo travellers?

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Sapphire Veranda Suite aboard Crystal Symphony.

Tony Archbold: Solo guests are a big part of Crystal’s demographic, and our familial crew has a long history of welcoming them aboard so that they always feel like an integral part of the atmosphere. And they are never on their own for long; we find our solo guests have a history of following each other from cruise to cruise, to meet up once again.

There are plenty of warm and luxurious public spaces aboard, like the library or Seahorse Pool and the Piano Bar, where solos can mingle with other passengers or simply enjoy some time to themselves. Our ambassador hosts are professional dancers and dance teachers who are specifically there to welcome solo travellers, invite them to dance, and provide company where it’s wanted.

Crystal continues to offer a selection of dedicated solo guest rooms and we offer a straight solo fare, rather than the expensive single supplement that is generally offered elsewhere. In addition, we offer a number of promotions throughout the year, which encourage the single guest to cruise in higher-category suites.

What are the highlights of Crystal’s upcoming world cruises?

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Visit many gorgeous places on a World Cruise, such as Australia’s own Darwin.

Tony Archbold: The highlight of any World Cruise is not just the many destinations that you get to visit. Nor is it the extended vacation and the ability to spend well over 100 days in an environment that only few can dream of while dining in style with the highly attentive service Crystal is known for. One of the greatest highlights of a World Cruise is the community that is built and the lasting friendships that grow over the extended voyage. It’s why many world cruisers come back time and time again.

We currently have two World Cruises available for sale. The 2025 World Cruise highlight I believe is the in-depth investigation of South America. Visiting over 30 ports around this remarkable continent will certainly bring a culturally, historically and ecologically diverse region of the world to life.

The 2026 World Cruise will see Crystal return to Australia for the first time in two years after departing Los Angeles and heading across the Pacific. Crystal Serenity will cruise up the East Coast of Australia before heading off to Asia.

For those who love cruising but haven’t tried Crystal, what can you offer?

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All travellers are promised a wonderful time with Crystal, whether you are travelling solo or with companions.

Tony Archbold: We know many cruisers would love to sail with Crystal and experience the level of service the industry has been talking about for many years as being exceptional. We also know that cruisers are generally loyal to their brands, so we are currently offering those who have been sailing with other brands the chance to experience Crystal for themselves.

If you’ve sailed with one brand for up to 29 days, we’ll give you a 5% discount when you book with Crystal. If you’ve sailed 30 days or more, we’ll give you a 5% discount plus free laundry. This is on top of a number of other offers that we have in the market, including up to 15% savings if you select one of our Combination Cruises.

Explore more of Crystal

For more information, visit crystalcruises.com.

In case you missed it, read about Crystal’s 2026 itineraries and how you can book them through their new travel advisor booking engine.

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