The luxury market is typically known to appeal to the older generation, offering itineraries ranging between 10 to 28 days.
But Crystal Cruises in a bid to appeal to younger travellers, is offering more seven-day itineraries across its suite of cruise ships, whether it be yacht or even river vessels.
“In 2022, the ships collectively will offer 21 seven-night voyages, and this is more than we’ve ever offered before,” Crystal Cruises CEO Tom Wolber said in a presentation to agents.
“These voyages are really perfect for multigenerational travel, for people with busy schedules and for people who want to try Crystal for the first time,” he said.
The line has diversified its brand extensively and now offers yacht and river sailings alongside its two ocean ships. Soon, the brand will also be launching an expedition yacht which explore the polar regions. And it’s these types of sailings which attract a younger audience.
Mark Spillane, director of sales and marketing for Crystal Yacht & Expedition told Travel Weekly that that the Crystal Esprit’s 62-passenger yacht has been a success for the younger demographic. While the ship is luxurious, the yacht experience doesn’t put a focus on luxury ports, and it offers more rustic shore offerings than Crystal’s other brands.
“The Esprit is really doing its job in bringing in younger guests to the Crystal experience who can then move up to other products,” Mr Spillane said.
Meanwhile, the Crystal Endeavour, which is launching next year will be sailing on two Antarctic expeditions to the Ross Sea via Tasmania and New Zealand. The voyage, which is more challenging for older guests, may be more appealing the younger cruisers because of the difficult zodiac landings.
And off the ship, the line is adding to its onboard entertainment and offering exhilarating shore excursions.
Passengers can take a Ferrari for a drive through the streets of Singapore, fly a fighter jet trainer in New Zealand or even take a helicopter to the top of a peak in Alaska then ride back down the mountain.
For the entertainment, Crystal’s partnership with Broadway will bring together producers, entertainers and other artists who have worked on world famous shows for exclusive performances as well as behind-the-scenes workshops on selected cruises.
