Crystal Cruises takes off with new luxury aircraft
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Crystal Cruises has purchased a new Boeing 777 as it bids to take its luxury cruise concept to the skies.
Following its takeover by Genting Hong Kong earlier this year, Crystal unveiled plans to launch ‘Crystal Luxury Air’ – a premium air tour service using its own luxury jets. And the company has now confirmed the purchase of a new Boeing Business Jet B777-200LR, which will be used to transport travellers on premium air vacations across the globe.
The company had already confirmed plans to acquire a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner for the new venture.
“Our mission is to make Crystal the core of what will become the world’s premier luxury hospitality and lifestyle brand collection, not only for the immediate future, but for years to come,” said Crystal’s chairman, Lim Kok Thay. “The acquisition of our second luxury aircraft is another profound step toward establishing our goal.”
Crystal said it will now work towards securing an Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC), paving the way for Crystal Luxury Air to launch international operations in 2017.
The wide-body B777-200LR can usually seat more than 300 passengers, but Crystal’s aircraft will be fitted with just 88 first class flat-bed seats, plus a lounge and bar. The B787-8 Dreamliner will accommodate 52 passengers. According to the company, these two aircraft will provide “premium luxury that discerning global travellers have come to expect from Crystal, including copious amounts of guest space, plush amenities and Crystal’s world-class service and crew”.
Crystal Luxury Air will offer a series of 14- and 28-day round-the-world and international itineraries, including accommodation in luxury hotels, dining at Michelin-starred restaurants and local cultural entertainment. The aircraft will also be available for private charters.
“Following our expansion announcement, travellers and travel agents expressed a strong interest in all-inclusive luxury air travel with a wider range of itineraries,” said Crystal’s president & CEO, Edie Rodriguez. “Based on this enthusiastic feedback, we are growing our fleet to meet the demand from our guests and travel partners in luxury air options.”
Crystal Luxury Air was one of several new ventures announced following the Genting Hong Kong acquisition, with others including a new river cruise venture, expedition cruises, luxury yachts, and the expansion of Crystal’s ocean-going fleet.
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