Crystal Cruises Delivers World Cruise Grandeur

Jason · August 22, 2006

Crystal Cruises Delivers World Cruise Grandeur Wrapped in 24-Day Voyage

Recognized Experts Headline Expanded Onboard Enrichment Programming

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Crystal Cruises is offering travelers the opportunity to experience all of the luxurious trimmings and expanded onboard programming of its renowned World Cruise in a condensed 24-day voyage from Istanbul to London. The luxury line's 2007 World Cruise Grand Combination Voyage gives travelers the opportunity to embrace exotic Mediterranean antiquities combined with the wonders of Western Europe, as well as an expanded program of onboard enrichment and guest lectures. The April 7 - May 1, 2007 combination voyage marks the last two segments of the full 109-day Crystal Serenity World Cruise.

A multi-faceted spectrum of accomplished industry experts is slated to lead the cruise's enhanced onboard enrichment programs and lectures. From CNN Food and Travel Anchor Carolyn O'Neil, and former U.S. Press Secretary Marlin Fitzwater, to pro football Hall-of-Famer and award-winning Coach Don Shula, and senior military and government leader General Nick Halley, among other acclaimed authors, journalists and professors, a full array of recognized speakers is an added benefit to Crystal's World Cruise grandeur.

In addition to an expanded offering of enrichment programs, guests will also relish in the ship's celebrated onboard Crystal Wine & Food Festival activities, including guest chef cooking demonstrations and specially prepared four-course dinners featuring the chef's signature dishes, as well as wine tastings led by Crystal's Master Sommeliers and guest wine expert.

"From stellar entertainment and engaging enrichment programs led by some of today's leading industry experts, Crystal's combination voyage offers travelers the opportunity to sample the added luster that our grand 109-day World Cruise has to offer in a shorter sailing," says Bill Smith, Crystal's senior vice president, sales and marketing.

For the 24-day cruise, guests will also receive the added trimmings and extras designed especially for Crystal's World Cruise, including exceptional parties, exclusive gifts, a $400 per couple onboard ship credit and two complimentary shoreside Crystal Adventures (one on each of the 12-day segments). While fares start at $11,200 per person, double occupancy, guests can enjoy a $4,236 savings per couple if paid in full 180 days prior to departure.

Crystal Cruises' 2007 World Cruise Grand Combination Voyage includes:

The Crystal Serenity combination voyage takes travelers through Turkey's architectural wonders and expansive shopping bazaars, the great treasures of ancient Greece, and romantic seaside towns of Italy, as well as from historical Spain to Morocco, Portugal and the French wine country before disembarking in London.

Embracing Exotic Antiquities: April 7 - 19, 2007; 12-day; Istanbul, Turkey (overnight) to Rome/Civitavecchia, Italy. Visiting Kusadasi, Turkey; Rhodes/Lindos and Navplion, Greece; Gabes, Tunisia; Taormina/Sicily and Naples, Italy.

Wonders of Western Europe: April 19 - May 1, 2007; 12-day; Rome/Civitavecchia, Italy to London/Southampton, England. Visiting Genoa, Italy; Marseille, France; Malaga, Spain; Casablanca, Morocco; Oporto/Leixoes, Portugal; Le Verdon/Bordeaux, France (overnight).

The Award-Winning Crystal Difference

Cruising the world, the 1,080-guest, 68,000-ton Crystal Serenity is distinguished by classic service, abundant space, exceptional quality and extensive choices. The ship's unique size allows for smooth sailing and a wide range of innovative facilities, generous amenities and elegant accommodations.

Crystal Cruises enjoys a reputation for excellence, grounded in over a decade of prestigious accolades. Most recently, Crystal has been voted "World's Best Large-Ship Cruise Line" by the readers of Conde Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure magazines for 10 and 11 consecutive years, respectively -- the only cruise line, resort or hotel to have achieved such distinction.