Crystal named ‘world’s best’ midsize-ship cruise by Travel + Leisure

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Crystal Symphy

Cruise operator Crystal has once again been named the Top Midsize-Ship Ocean Cruise Line in Travel + Leisure’s highly coveted ‘World’s Best’ 2025 readers’ awards, an accolade it has held for nearly 30 years.

Competing in the midsize category, which includes ships with 300 to 799 cabins, Crystal earned an impressive reader score of 94.85 in this year’s survey, which marks the publication’s 30th Anniversary Awards.

Readers of the US-based travel magazine were asked to vote on factors including food, cabins and facilities, itineraries and destinations, excursions and value for money.

They particularly praised Crystal’s newly refurbished ships, Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, highlighting their inviting ambience, enriching educational classes and lectures, outstanding cuisine and top-notch entertainment.

Crystal Serenity pool deck

“We are deeply honoured to once again be recognised in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards. This accolade is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our team and the trust our guests place in us,” said Cristina Levis, CEO of Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group, which acquired Crystal in 2022.

The following year, Crystal Cruises relaunched under Crystal – Exceptional at Sea with the line’s ships Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony undergoing extensive refurbishments. Upgrades included the addition of larger suites, the Aurōra Spa, Broadway-standard entertainment and elevated dining including the only Nobu restaurant at sea.

Subsequently, Crystal has added the only Beefbar at sea, Le Casino de Monte-Carlo, Badiani Gelato and a fresh menu from the acclaimed Alajmo Brothers, set to debut this summer.

Crystal elevates on board gelato offering

Crystal unveils itineraries for second half of 2027

“The relaunch and multi-million dollar refurbishment of both ships was a labour of love, aiming to elevate our guests’ experience to new heights,” said Bernie Leypold, SVP of Hotel Operations.

“This recognition reaffirms our commitment to excellence and inspires us to continue setting the standard in luxury cruising.”

Last year, Crystal placed an order for three new ships with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, with first delivery expected in 2028.

This same year will also see Crystal embark on a 150-night world cruise aboard Crystal Symphony, calling in 84 destinations across 39 countries on six continents. Bookings are now open for the world cruise, which will sail roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale from 11 January to 10 June 2028, with a shorter segment available to disembark in Barcelona on 27 May 2028.

Prices for the full world cruise start at US$69,000 (AED253,400) per person based on double occupancy which includes business class airfare credit, US$1,500 (AED5,510) onboard credit, unlimited dining at specialty restaurants and exclusive shoreside events.

For more information, visit crystalcruises.ae and www.crystalcruises.ae/peace-of-mind-promise. For reservations, call 8000 6512079 (UAE) or +357 26 205 216 (outside of the UAE), or email crystal@luxurycruiseportfolio.com. For travel trade partnerships, contact Head of GCC Sales Daniel Essex on dan@luxurycruiseportfolio.com