MOU signed with Fincantieri by Crystal for two new ocean ships

[Stickman1990]

Breaking News

 

CRYSTAL SIGNS MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT WITH FINCANTIERI FOR TWO NEW OCEAN SHIPS

 

First Ship Delivery is Set for Q2 2028

 

MONACO (June 27, 2024) – Crystal, the leader in exceptional cruise experiences, announced today the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri. This  agreement marks the commencement of the construction of two groundbreaking ships that will redefine high-end travel on the seas.

 

The 690-passenger (based on double occupancy), 61,800-gross-ton ships will feature a host of amenities and innovative designs, ensuring unparalleled comfort and indulgence for guests. Prominent architectural firms Studio Ibsen led by Prof. and Architect Adriana Granato and Studio Gem headed by Naval Arch. Giacomo Mortola and Naval Eng. Lorenzo Mortola will be leading the design efforts, along with a third international design firm yet to be appointed. The interior design will feature the most precious marbles, Italian fabrics and natural materials, offering a level of research and sophistication typically reserved for high-end private residential properties.

 

A standout feature will be a promenade extending through the whole ships’ perimeter, similar to those loved by guests on Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, for leisurely strolls with stunning ocean views. Culinary enthusiasts will be delighted by a variety of dining options, showcasing a variety of world-class cuisines including Umi Uma, the only Nobu at sea as well as recently announced Beefbar. Additionally, Crystal will continue its legacy of offering exclusive entertainment along with a sophisticated casino that includes an array of gaming options in an elegant setting.

 

Wellness and relaxation will be at the heart of the new ships, with a comprehensive Spa and state-of-the-art fitness center available to all guests. Families traveling with children will appreciate a dedicated area, designed to provide engaging activities and a safe space for younger guests.

 

The new ships will feature all-suite accommodations, with private verandas including a popular single occupancy category, with veranda, designed for solo travelers. This commitment to comfort is complemented by one of the highest crew-to-passenger ratios in this segment, ensuring personalized service and attention to detail.

“This order is another milestone in the 40 years of productive collaboration between Fincantieri and my family that started with Sitmar Cruises, continued with Silversea and now is flourishing again with Crystal,” said Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, Executive Chairman of A&K Travel Group.

 

“Our aim is to continue setting a new standard in cruising, offering our guests an unmatched level of service and sophistication. These new ships will receive the same level of attention I have reserve to my own house,” added Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group.

“This order not only highlights the robust recovery of the cruise sector, in line with our Industrial Plan, but also reaffirms Fincantieri’s leadership, thanks to the operational excellence of our shipyards and the execution quality of our world-class supply chain,” stated Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO of Fincantieri.  “We are thrilled to partner with Crystal in our pursuit of innovation and excellence, under the guidance of a shipowner who has always been close to our Group, like Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio."

 

The expected delivery of the first ship will be in the Spring of 2028. The construction and delivery timeline on the second ship will be announced at a later date.

 

The announcement comes two years after A&K Travel Group acquired Crystal in 2022, marking a new chapter for the cruise line. Under A&K Travel Group’s leadership, Crystal has been focusing on enhancing its offerings both at sea and on shore and expanding its fleet to provide unparalleled experiences for its guests.

 

Crystal has also secured the option to build a third sister ship with delivery in 2032.

 

For more information navigate to: https://www.crystalcruises.com/press/crystal-signs-memorandum-of-agreement-with-fincantieri-for-two-new-ocean-ships

 

Further reporting 

New ships for Crystal reported by Cruise Industry News 

 

“Crystal announced today the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri for two new luxury cruise ships.

The 690-passenger, 61,800-gross-ton ships will feature a host of amenities and innovative designs, the company said, ensuring unparalleled comfort and indulgence for guests”

https://cruiseindustrynews.com/cruise-news/2024/06/crystal-cruises-orders-two-new-ships-from-fincantieri

 

I felt this news worthy of a dedicated thread for the inevitable discussion on the announcement 

[BWIVince]

As mentioned in the other thread, no surprises here, which is probably a good sign.  Lots of consistent messaging.  I’m curious to see who is ultimately selected for the third design firm.

 

Vince

[Stickman1990]

Crystal Society members who have opted to receive communications from Crystal should recovered following message from the CEO of Crystal 

 

“When we returned to service almost a year ago, I announced on our preview cruises the intention of expanding our fleet. I am writing today to inform you that we have officially signed a Binding Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri to build two ocean-going classic ships. The first ship is expected to be delivered in the Spring of 2028. The delivery date of the second ship will be communicated in the next few months.
 
The new 690-passenger, 61,800-gross-ton ships will feature a host of amenities and innovative designs, ensuring unparalleled comfort and indulgence for our guests to enjoy. The interior design will feature the most precious marbles, Italian fabrics and natural materials, offering a level of research and sophistication typically reserved for high-end private residential properties. And, we are pleased to be partnering on this project with prominent architectural firms Studio Ibsen run by Architect Adriana Granato and Studio Gem headed by Architect Giacomo Mortola and Naval Engineer and Architect Lorenzo Mortola who led the beautiful refurbishments in 2023.

The ships will feature a promenade similar to those loved by guests on Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, for leisurely strolls with stunning ocean views. Culinary enthusiasts will be delighted by a variety of dining options, showcasing a variety of world-class cuisines including Umi Uma, the only Nobu restaurant at sea as well as recently announced Beefbar. Additionally, Crystal will continue its legacy of offering exclusive entertainment options including a sophisticated casino with our new partner, Casino de Monte-Carlo.

Wellness and relaxation will be at the heart of the new ships, with a comprehensive Spa and state-of-the-art fitness center available to all guests. Families traveling with children will appreciate a dedicated area, designed to provide engaging activities and a safe space for younger guests.
 
The new ships will feature all-suite accommodations, with private verandas including our popular single occupancy category designed for solo travelers. This commitment to comfort is complemented by one of the highest crew-to-passenger ratios in this segment, ensuring personalized service and attention to detail.
 
We look forward to sharing more details about the ships as they become available and, of course, welcoming you on board when our new ship debuts in 2028.
 
Warm regards,
 
Cristina Levis
CEO | Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group”
 

[Flash G]

[Keith1010]

Beautiful.

 

I cropped it so we could have a larger version.

 

Keith

 

[oakridger]

I would now look at booking a solo cabin on this ship since they will have a balcony!  I'm looking forward to seeing the final product in a couple of years!

 

~Nancy

 

[Lord Smiley]

4 hours ago, Stickman1990 said:

The expected delivery of the first ship will be in the Spring of 2028.

 

2028 ?!

 

Regent just announced their new ship two weeks ago, and it is expected for delivery in 2026, which would be at least 1.5 years earlier.

[BWIVince]

17 minutes ago, Lord Smiley said:

 

2028 ?!

 

Regent just announced their new ship two weeks ago, and it is expected for delivery in 2026, which would be at least 1.5 years earlier.

 

Do you mean for Prestige?  Regent didn't just sign an MOU for it, that was done years ago. Crystal will do the kind of marketing in a couple of years that Regent is doing now, once more details are finalized and the timeline is firmer (not one of Fincantieri's strong suits lately), just as they did with their prior ships...  This is just the initial announcement, and Prestige is a couple years further into the process.

 

Vince

Edited Thursday at 02:28 PM by BWIVince

[PaulMCO]

17 minutes ago, Lord Smiley said:

 

2028 ?!

 

Regent just announced their new ship two weeks ago, and it is expected for delivery in 2026, which would be at least 1.5 years earlier.

The ship has yet to be designed.  Financing still has to be arranged.  A contract has NOT been signed it is just an MOU.  Once the design is complete, the price can be negotiated and financing will be arranged, and a contract will be signed.  The point of this is they now have a reserved space in the shipbuilders production schedule.

 

@BWIVince stated Regent is far along in the process and they have an initial design they are working with.

 

One other point -- no mention of an Expedition ship.  Though this is NOT a Fincantieri specialty, more likely Meyer Werft.

Edited Thursday at 02:34 PM by PaulMCO

[Everything Bagel]

1 hour ago, PaulMCO said:

The ship has yet to be designed.  Financing still has to be arranged.  A contract has NOT been signed it is just an MOU.

 

Reading this reminded me of a line from the movie Annie Hall:

 

Still, it's a great idea, and I am excited about it!

[seasack]

4 hours ago, Stickman1990 said:

A standout feature will be a promenade extending through the whole ships’ perimeter, similar to those loved by guests on Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, for leisurely strolls with stunning ocean views.

Does that mean a full 360deg promenade deck? I thought I saw or read somewhere that it might only be like a 3/4 of a full 360deg promenade deck?

[ctjon]

8 minutes ago, seasack said:

Does that mean a full 360deg promenade deck? I thought I saw or read somewhere that it might only be like a 3/4 of a full 360deg promenade deck?

Sounds like it - says it listen to current customers which is a good sign.

[travelberlin]

6 minutes ago, seasack said:

Does that mean a full 360deg promenade deck? I thought I saw or read somewhere that it might only be like a 3/4 of a full 360deg promenade deck?

Where are the solo rooms going to be? I hope that not again forward on the ships…and how will it work out with the promenade deck?

 

Ivi

[Texas Tillie]

33 minutes ago, travelberlin said:

Where are the solo rooms going to be? I hope that not again forward on the ships…and how will it work out with the promenade deck?

 

Ivi

 

Based on what I've read, the ship has not been designed yet. That is just a "concept" drawing with the announcement. So, no one knows, but time will tell.

 

Patty

[Keith1010]

3 hours ago, seasack said:

Does that mean a full 360deg promenade deck? I thought I saw or read somewhere that it might only be like a 3/4 of a full 360deg promenade deck?

It will be a 3/4th promenade according to what was said a month or two ago by Crystal.

 

Keith

[Roland4]

3 hours ago, travelberlin said:

Where are the solo rooms going to be? I hope that not again forward on the ships…and how will it work out with the promenade deck?

 

Ivi

As a guess, we are probably 18 to 24 months away from any kind of detail such as room locations. Lots of time for idle speculation, and, of course, the all important "Name The Ship" guest consultation period. 😁😁

[Roland4]

1 minute ago, Keith1010 said:

It will be a 3/4th promenade according to what was said a month or two ago by Crystal.

 

Keith

Possibly, but considering that on Monday the library was moving to the Lounge.......... 😉

[seasack]

6 minutes ago, Keith1010 said:

It will be a 3/4th promenade according to what was said a month or two ago by Crystal.

 

Keith

Yes that’s what I remember but the wording of the release says the promenade will be “extending through the whole ships perimeter” that doesn’t sound like 3/4 to me. 
 

As you like to say time will tell…

[ctjon]

43 minutes ago, seasack said:

Yes that’s what I remember but the wording of the release says the promenade will be “extending through the whole ships perimeter” that doesn’t sound like 3/4 to me. 
 

As you like to say time will tell…

And it said as people had requested - I think that alll means all around but time will tell and things could change

[KenzSailing]

Great news, and the timeline is completely understandable given recent history, but in terms of money hitting the cash drawer, 2028 is a long way away.

Edited Thursday at 11:07 PM by KenzSailing
revision

[BWIVince]

3 hours ago, Roland4 said:

As a guess, we are probably 18 to 24 months away from any kind of detail such as room locations. Lots of time for idle speculation, and, of course, the all important "Name The Ship" guest consultation period. 😁😁

 

That's exactly what I was thinking.

 

For comparison, I dug up some dates just to see how similar the process is running these days.

 

Serenity's MOU was signed in late spring of 2000, with the finalized order placed in November of 2000.  Crystal announced preliminary details of the design (basically what was finalized in the order) in March of 2001, and then "full" details including her name and most amenity details and lounge names in November of 2001.  Even at that time there were details still to come though, like the partnership with Nobu and the addition of Tastes, both of which were announced later.

 

Obviously times are a little different now, but that gives some perspective on how this tends to play out for a project of this scale at a company of this size.  Given the delays and backlog at Fincantieri, the 2028 timeline seems pretty consistent.  As we all know, Chantiers de l’Atlantique struggled hard with its orders during Serenity's construction and her delivery was delayed and incomplete...  So although she had a little shorter timeline overall, it turned out not to be a completely realistic one.

 

Vince

[BEAV]

3 hours ago, Roland4 said:

Lots of time for idle speculation, and, of course, the all important "Name The Ship" guest consultation period. 😁😁

And the name will be…..

 

“CRYSTAL FINALLY” 🚢

[Mrs. Claypool]

Regardless— I BELIEVE.

 

I just handed Paula Jean a note that said, “Reserve us a cabin on the Inaugural Cruise, June 2028.  We’ll take the Penthouse Suite!”

 

Emily 🤣🤣🤣

[travelberlin]

6 hours ago, Roland4 said:

As a guess, we are probably 18 to 24 months away from any kind of detail such as room locations. Lots of time for idle speculation, and, of course, the all important "Name The Ship" guest consultation period. 😁😁

Yes but those questions are relevant for the ship design and I hope that design is not going to start 20 months from now. And for us solos it is important to raise our voice before the design is finished and then someone just thinks “oh since they are solos, lets give them the least desirable locations “. 

[Keith1010]

8 hours ago, seasack said:

Yes that’s what I remember but the wording of the release says the promenade will be “extending through the whole ships perimeter” that doesn’t sound like 3/4 to me. 
 

As you like to say time will tell…

I agree with you.

 

The wording is certainly different than what was said a few months ago.  

 

Yes, time will tell and another one that applies  is the devil is in the details so we'll wait to see the details and hopefully they will come "in-time".

 

Keith