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July 7, 2025

In 2027, Crystal invites travel enthusiasts to embark on an unforgettable experience aboard the Crystal Serenity for its Grand Journey—a 71-night voyage offering total immersion in the diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities of the Americas.

From the energy of New York to the tranquil Chilean fjords, with stops along the pink-sand beaches of the Caribbean and at ports rich in natural and historical wonders, this cruise is far more than just a voyage—it is an opportunity to rediscover the world with fresh eyes, all while enjoying the uncompromising comfort and luxury of the Crystal Serenity.

The journey begins in iconic New York, the largest metropolis in the United States and a city brimming with endless adventures. Guests can choose to enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the paths of Central Park, attend a world-renowned Broadway show, or take in the breathtaking view of Manhattan from the top of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. New York is the perfect starting point for this cruise, which blends culture, energy, and unforgettable scenery. After two days at sea, the first stop is Bermuda—a historic port that has welcomed European ships for centuries. This British island is famous for its pink-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, as well as for its lively craft markets and vibrant restaurants. Highlights include the National Museum of Bermuda, home to artifacts recovered from ancient shipwrecks, and the stunning glacial-era caves. The towns of St. George’s and Hamilton offer a captivating blend of colonial architecture and lush natural surroundings.

On the seventh day, the ship arrives in St. John’s, the capital of Antigua and Barbuda—a place that perfectly combines rich history with the laid-back charm of the Caribbean. Strolling through the city, one is enchanted by pastel-colored colonial buildings, bustling markets, and cozy cafés serving local delicacies. Must-see sights include St. John’s Cathedral and the ruins of Fort James, offering spectacular views over the sea. Naturally, the beaches of Dickenson Bay and Runaway Bay are ideal for relaxation, snorkeling, or sailing. The following day brings a visit to Pointe-à-Pitre, the vibrant heart of Guadeloupe, where French and Caribbean influences blend seamlessly. With its colorful markets and palm-shaded streets, the city exudes a unique atmosphere filled with fusion cuisine and local music. A must-see is the Cathedral of St-Pierre et St-Paul, a true architectural gem that beautifully merges Gothic and Romanesque styles.

On the eighth day, guests are treated to the exclusive charm of St. Barts, the island of choice for celebrities. Its 22 dreamy beaches—like Anse de Flamands or Baie de St-Jean, with its signature beachfront bistros—invite moments of pure indulgence, whether relaxing or enjoying water sports. The journey continues to San Juan, Puerto Rico, a city steeped in history and culture. Here, visitors can explore La Fortaleza, the oldest governor’s residence in the Western Hemisphere, and marvel at a curious mahogany clock, frozen in time since the final days of Spanish rule—a simple yet powerful reminder of the island’s colonial past. In Basse-Terre, the capital of St. Kitts, British roots are palpable in landmarks like the Treasury Building and The Circus, inspired by London’s Piccadilly Circus. Beyond the architecture, the island offers white-sand beaches and spectacular mountain scenery.

Arriving in St. Lucia, nature takes center stage with the iconic Pitons—two towering peaks rising dramatically from the sea, creating a one-of-a-kind natural backdrop. The island enchants with its tranquil bays, lush vegetation, and irresistible Creole atmosphere. Tobago offers a haven of peace and greenery, ideal for nature lovers. In the capital, Scarborough, visitors can explore botanical gardens and historic fortifications, while the island’s interior invites exploration through forests and cocoa plantations. The journey then reaches the Îles du Salut in French Guiana, known for their haunting past as a penal colony—most famously, Devil’s Island. Today, while the main island is closed to visitors, the ruins on Île Royale tell a powerful and emotional story of resilience and history.

In Brazil, Fortaleza welcomes travelers with golden beaches like Praia do Futuro—perfect for sipping a caipirinha and soaking up the vibrant Brazilian rhythm. The city also boasts the Dragão do Mar Center, a dynamic cultural hub, and craft markets filled with ceramics and lace. Finally, the Brazilian chapter concludes in Maceió, a modern city still deeply connected to its roots. With its lagoons, mangroves, Belle Époque architecture, and powdery white-sand beaches, it offers pure relaxation and captivating natural beauty.

As November begins, the journey continues with unforgettable stops among the wonders of Brazil and South America. It starts in Salvador de Bahia, a city steeped in Afro-Brazilian history and culture, where the vibrant energy of street festivals blends with a profound heritage of tradition and spirituality. After a day at sea, the ship arrives in Rio de Janeiro—an iconic destination known for Christ the Redeemer, the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, and its world-famous Carnival, all of which infuse the city with an infectious energy and joy. The journey continues to Ilhabela, an island rich in history and pristine nature, ideal for those seeking a balance of culture and breathtaking landscapes. Balneário Camboriú offers a mix of nightlife, beaches, and natural beauty, with spectacular views from its famous Unipraias Park. Following another day of sailing, the ship reaches Montevideo, the vibrant capital of Uruguay, alive with culture and local flavors. Then comes Buenos Aires, a city of tango and captivating architecture, where history is present on every corner.

The South American coastline continues with a visit to Punta del Este, a sophisticated beach resort, and Puerto Madryn in Patagonia, the gateway to extraordinary marine life and dramatic natural landscapes. The tour moves on to the Falkland Islands and Ushuaia—the southernmost city in the world—where guests can experience wild adventures among channels, forests, and abundant wildlife. Punta Arenas and the Magallanes region offer full immersion in Chile’s natural wonders, including national parks, glaciers, and majestic fjords. The journey then explores Castro, the capital of Chiloé Island in the heart of Chile’s Lake District. Famous for its rainbow-colored palafitos (stilt houses) lining the harbor, Castro also captivates with its wooden churches—16 of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites—built by Jesuit missionaries in the 17th and 18th centuries and representing the cultural richness of the archipelago. For contemporary art enthusiasts, the Chiloé Museum of Modern Art showcases impactful permanent and temporary exhibitions. Nature and spirituality lovers will find in Chiloé a unique experience, surrounded by dense forests, windswept hills, and a culture that is both rich and authentic.

From here, the journey moves to Puerto Montt, nestled between the Andes and the Pacific Ocean. This city serves as the gateway to Chilean Patagonia and lies close to the wonders of the Chiloé archipelago. The lively and charming city center invites leisurely strolls through artisan stalls selling handmade ponchos and the bustling fish market, where fresh local specialties abound, including the famous local salmon. The breathtaking landscapes of snow-capped volcanoes and lush forests make the area a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Next, the trip reaches Valparaíso, Chile’s most artistic city—a living canvas with its colorful houses climbing the hillsides, kissed by the sea breeze. Founded in the 16th century, the city has played a key role in maritime trade, and its architecture reflects centuries of colonial, European, and indigenous influences. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2023, Valparaíso is a vibrant cultural and artistic hub where historic funiculars and winding alleys tell stories of a rich and lively past that still pulses today. The port of Coquimbo, with its colorful fishing boats and wide, welcoming beaches, is one of Chile’s favorite seaside destinations. Its Barrio Inglés district buzzes with markets and street food stalls during the day, offering treats like anticuchos and empanadas, and comes alive at night with busy bars and restaurants. Beyond the sea, Coquimbo also offers cultural and natural treasures, including historic churches, museums, neocolonial architecture, and nearby national parks.

Finally, in December, guests will continue their exploration along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts of Latin America, visiting some of the region’s most captivating cities. The journey begins in Iquique, northern Chile, where the mild year-round climate, palm-fringed beaches like Playa Cavancha, and the allure of ancient ghost towns—UNESCO World Heritage Sites—tell stories of a past linked to the saltpeter industry. Moving along the Peruvian coast, stops include Puerto San Martín, a lively port where maritime tradition blends with the culture of Pisco, and Callao, the gateway to Lima, with its colonial monuments, historic squares, and Peruvian cuisine famous for fresh, bold flavors such as the renowned ceviche. Further south, Salaverry charms with its ancient history connected to the Moche and Chimú civilizations and the appeal of a small fishing village turned surfer’s haven, known for tranquility and perfect waves.

Crossing the Equator, the journey arrives in Guayaquil, the “Pearl of the Pacific,” with its lively Malecón 2000 and the colorful Las Peñas neighborhood—perfect spots to immerse yourself in local life and admire urban nature. The itinerary continues through the famous Panama Canal, where Fuerte Amador stands as a meeting point between history and modernity. Once a fortress guarding the canal’s entrance, today it serves as a gateway to vibrant Panama City, a city that skillfully blends its colonial past with the pulsating rhythm of contemporary life, enriched by green parks and welcoming waterfronts. From here, the focus shifts to the Caribbean coast, with Puerto Limón in Costa Rica—a port that tells stories of trade, cultures, and lush nature, where white sandy beaches and turquoise waters invite you to dive into a tropical paradise. The route proceeds to Santo Tomás de Castilla in Guatemala, a crossroads of adventures among waterfalls, rainforests, and ancient Maya cities, while the city of Belize captivates with its proximity to the continent’s largest coral reef and archaeological sites full of mystery and history.

Finally, the journey concludes with the gems of Mexico: from the postcard-perfect beaches and Maya mysteries of Cozumel Island to Progreso, home to the world’s longest pier stretching into the Gulf of Mexico, and the archaeological sites of Chichén Itzá and Uxmal, ready to reveal ancient legends. After days of discoveries, history, and nature, arrival in Fort Lauderdale marks the perfect finale to the journey: a vibrant and welcoming city with golden beaches and a relaxed atmosphere, where the Florida sun welcomes those who have experienced an unforgettable adventure among the wonders of the American continent.

The Grand Journey by Crystal offers travelers an exceptional perspective on the world, combining the spirit of adventure with the utmost comfort. These extended cruises take guests to dream destinations, ranging from vibrant metropolises to secluded tranquil beaches, crossing ever-changing cultures and landscapes. The onshore experiences are enriched through an exclusive partnership with Abercrombie & Kent, allowing guests to get closer to the most authentic and lesser-known aspects of each destination. During exclusive events, curated by local experts, travelers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the places visited, sharing these moments with fellow travel enthusiasts.

Onboard, dining represents a top-tier gastronomic journey. Award-winning menus, designed to satisfy every palate, are paired with carefully selected vintage wines. A comprehensive program of culinary activities, both on land and at sea, makes every meal a complete and refined experience. Crystal’s signature hospitality guarantees a genuine welcome, with highly trained staff ready to provide impeccable service 24 hours a day.

The Grand Journey 2027 by Crystal is therefore not just a cruise, but an exciting voyage that combines comfort, luxury, and adventure, guiding guests through some of the most captivating places in the Americas. Every day aboard Crystal Serenity is an opportunity to live new experiences, discover diverse cultures, and enjoy exclusive services that turn the journey into an unforgettable memory.

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Giorgia Lombardo

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