Crystal has announced it will host a special voyage tracing the path of Allied forces during World War II to mark the 80th anniversary year of D-Day.
Set to sail aboard Crystal Symphony from 18-26 September, 2024, the immersive itinerary will bring together a group of special guests and lecturers, offering expert insights into this historic event.
The 8-night voyage will depart from Dover, England. The itinerary includes stops in Ijmuiden (located 27 kilometres from Amsterdam) during the 80th anniversary of Operation Market Garden.
The journey continues to Zeebrugge, Belgium, with an optional tour to Dunkirk, before arriving in Rouen, France for three days, where guests also have the option to explore the D-Day landing sites of Normandy.
“Remembering the heroes of D-Day and observing their sacrifices is an honour for Crystal,” said Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group.
“We are committed to providing guests with an immersive and meaningful experience that pays tribute to the bravery and resilience of those who fought for freedom. And, while we recognize that the sailing isn’t on the exact anniversary, June 6, we are proud to join several others celebrating this esteemed anniversary around the world over the course of 2024.”
The special guests and lecturers will include Dr. Erica Miller, an international best-selling author and Holocaust survivor who will share her journey from her childhood in Romania to life under the Nazi regime and eventual immigration to America.
George Luz Jr.: Luz will share stories about his father and other members of Easy Company, which parachuted into Normandy on D-Day and participated in Operation Market Garden and the Battle of the Bulge. George’s presentation, titled ‘Through My Father’s Eyes’, includes personal photos, letters, and rare audio of the men featured in Stephen E. Ambrose’s book. He was portrayed by Rick Gomez in the HBO miniseries Band of Brothers, produced by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg.
Meanwhile, Commander Robert E. Bradshaw: Commander Bradshaw (ret), a respected Navy Chaplain with a distinguished military career spanning nearly four decades, will offer insights into his service and experiences with various military units, including deployments to conflict zones such as Iraq and Afghanistan.
For more information, visit crystalcruises.com
