Crystal River Cruises unravels newest member of its fleet

Crystal River Cruises welcomed its fifth ship and the newest member of the fleet, Crystal Ravel, during a christening ceremony in Budapest, Hungary.

Less than two years ago, Crystal launched its first river ship, Crystal Mozart, marking the company’s grand entrance into Europe’s river cruising industry. The fleet now also comprises Crystal Ravel and her identical sister ships: Crystal Bach, Crystal Mahler and Crystal Debussy.

Crystal Ravel is currently sailing itineraries of six to 14 days between Vienna and Basel; in 2019 she will be the only river ship to sail seven-night Danube cruises round-trip from Vienna to ports in Austria, Hungary and Slovakia.

Crystal’s new river vessels are the river cruising industry’s first and only all-suite, all-butler vessels in Europe, with every category of accommodation positioned above the water line. All suites feature Panoramic Balcony-Windows and walk-in closets and dual vanity in the bathrooms are featured in most categories.

Crystal Mozart is Europe’s most spacious river ship, at twice the width of any other, and offers an unrivalled number of social spaces, restaurants and ‘the largest spa on the river’. All of Crystal’s river ships feature butler service in every room category, king-sized beds, Etro amenities, robes and slippers, and wall-mounted flat-screen HD TVs.

Additional enticing features include farm-to-table cuisine in multiple, open-seating eateries: the elegant Waterside Restaurant, namesake Bistro cafés and the exclusive Vintage Room; and the Palm Court for entertainment, enrichment presentations and sweeping views of the countryside.

“A tremendous accomplishment of growth”

“Today is a proud day for the entire Crystal family. In just over two years, we introduced five ships, which is a tremendous accomplishment of growth for this expansion of the Crystal brand,” Tom Wolber, CEO and president of Crystal Cruises said. “But what makes us most proud is that with each new ship and new experience, Crystal’s commitment to superb quality and exceptional luxury and service has remained unwavering.”

Managing director of Crystal Cruises, Walter Littlejohn, believes that the ships are earning the acclaim of luxury travellers from around the world because at the heart of the Crystal River Experience are the people. Their warm, genuine service and attention to detail. make sailing with Crystal like coming home to their onboard family.

“Stunning grace, elegance and beauty of the rivers that flow here”

Hungarian philanthropist and creator of the hit “Virtuosos” classical music talent show, Mariann Peller who also performed at the christening ceremony said: “To be named the godmother of a ship that celebrates the classical musical heritage of this country and the lands that surround her – is an honour that speaks to my heart.

“Beyond the connection to the musical masters of this region, Crystal River ships represent the stunning grace, elegance and beauty of the rivers that flow here. I am honoured to become part of the Crystal family, as this company embodies a dedication to excellence.”