Crystal Launches Its Most Epic World Cruise Ever


Crystal has announced Treasures of the Tides, the longest World Cruise in its history, with bookings set to open on May 29, 2025.

This extraordinary 150-night journey, departing in 2028 aboard the Crystal Symphony, marks a major milestone for the ship as it returns to lead a World Cruise for the first time in over five years. The itinerary, spanning 84 destinations across 39 countries and six continents, offers travelers a rare and captivating opportunity to discover the entire world through a journey masterfully curated down to the finest detail.

The voyage will depart from Fort Lauderdale on January 11, with a return scheduled for June 10, 2028. An early disembarkation option will be available in Barcelona on May 27 for those wishing to end their journey prior to the full conclusion. Along the way, guests will be immersed in a wide variety of atmospheres — from the colorful ports of the Caribbean to the breathtaking coasts of South America, from the remote lagoons of the South Pacific to the vibrant capitals of Southeast Asia, and the charming coastal villages of the Mediterranean. The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to ensure a natural flow between destinations, blending iconic stops with lesser-known gems to foster a slower, more authentic style of exploration. Select excursions will be organized in collaboration with Abercrombie & Kent, Crystal’s sister company known for high-end experiential travel.

Among the most anticipated highlights are first-time calls in Huahine (French Polynesia) and several Australian locations including Portland, Kangaroo Island, Albany, and Geraldton. Additionally, the ship will call for the first time at Nha Trang (Vietnam) and Mangalore (India). Throughout the journey, guests will enjoy exclusive events, including special celebrations in Lima, Ho Chi Minh City, and Dubai, culminating in a spectacular finale worthy of this epic voyage.

Fernando Barroso de Oliveira, President and Brand Ambassador for Crystal, will be present throughout the 2028 World Cruise, offering guests his insight and deep knowledge of the visited destinations. His presence adds immense value, enriching the journey with in-depth commentary and engaging storytelling.

According to Barroso de Oliveira, the 2028 World Cruise will offer something entirely new—not just through its destinations, but in the way every moment is crafted, both onboard and ashore. The itinerary features overnight stays in some of the world’s most iconic ports and introduces brand-new immersive experiences created exclusively for Crystal guests. As he emphasizes, this approach raises the bar for luxury exploration, combining innovation with meticulous attention to detail.

The voyage will begin in January with a passage through the Western Caribbean and Central America, stopping in ports such as Cozumel, Belize, Roatán, and Cartagena, before continuing through the Panama Canal along South America’s Pacific coast. In February, the focus shifts to French Polynesia, with calls in Papeete, Moorea, Raiatea, and Bora Bora, followed by the volcanic islands of Pago Pago, the beaches of Fiji and Vanuatu, and the serene waters of New Caledonia. In March, the ship will explore the vineyards and coastal cities of New Zealand, then sail along Southern Australia, visiting Bali, the beaches of Boracay, and the natural wonders of Sandakan (Borneo). April brings the cruise to Vietnam, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Phuket, and the Andaman Islands, along with Sri Lanka and India’s western coast, including an overnight in Mumbai. In May, the ship will journey through Oman and the Red Sea, with visits to Petra (via Aqaba) and the temples of Luxor (via Safaga). After transiting the Suez Canal, the cruise enters the Mediterranean, with stops in Crete, Sicily, Malta, Tunisia, and numerous ports in Italy and Spain. Finally, in June, the last leg of the journey crosses the Atlantic, with calls in the Azores and Bermuda, before returning to Fort Lauderdale.

Mario Parodi, Vice President of Itinerary Planning at Crystal, emphasized that this voyage is a true celebration of cultural discovery and marks the first time in over five years that Crystal Symphony will lead a World Cruise. He also highlighted that the blend of new destinations with classic favorites offers guests a unique opportunity to explore the world in a deep and meaningful way.

Guests booking the full voyage will enjoy a wide array of exclusive benefits, including business class airfare or an equivalent credit, a $1,500 “As You Wish” onboard spending credit, unlimited dining at specialty venues such as Osteria d’Ovidio, Beefbar, and Umi Uma, exclusive themed events, private valet luggage transfers, complimentary laundry and pressing services (with 2-day delivery), exclusive shoreside experiences, and a complimentary onboard medical consultation.

With Treasures of the Tides, Crystal reaffirms its position as a leader in luxury cruising, delivering an unparalleled experience that blends elegant travel with profound cultural discovery — a voyage destined to define a new chapter in global exploration.

Stay tuned for updates, news, and reviews of Crystal on Cruising Journal, featuring photos, videos, and cruise offers.

Giorgia Lombardo

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