Crystal Cup: Where Golf Meets Luxury at Sea
Crystal has announced the launch of the Crystal Cup, an elite golf tournament created in partnership with Troon, the world leader in golf course management.
This exclusive event offers a perfect blend of luxury travel and high-level sport, culminating in a grand finale in October 2025 at the prestigious Sea Island Golf Club on St. Simons Island, Georgia, the official host of the PGA TOUR’s RSM Classic. Elevating the tournament’s profile are two iconic names in international golf: Luke Donald, former World No. 1 and captain of Team Europe for the 2023 and 2025 Ryder Cups, and Lexi Thompson, a star of the LPGA Tour. Both will headline the tournament’s promotional campaigns and participate in exclusive events. Crystal is also set to launch a special Ryder Cup 2025 initiative, giving fans a chance to win a private virtual lesson with Luke Donald.
Crystal-Wass-BearsClub
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The tournament will begin with 10 local qualifiers hosted at private clubs across the United States, with each team consisting of two players. These will be followed by three regional tournaments organized by Troon at top-tier public courses: Aviara Golf Club in California, Tobacco Road Golf Club in North Carolina, and La Cantera Golf Club in Texas. An estimated 940 teams—nearly 1,900 golfers—are expected to compete in the qualifying rounds. Finalists will enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compete alongside Crystal ambassadors, indulge in world-class hospitality, and vie for prestigious prizes, including luxury cruises, signed memorabilia, and a 29-night voyage from Singapore to Tokyo aboard the Crystal Symphony.
Luke Donald praised the Crystal Cup as a truly unprecedented experience that combines the thrill of competition on legendary courses with Crystal’s signature excellence in service and entertainment. Lexi Thompson echoed his sentiments, describing the event as the perfect harmony between the adrenaline of competitive golf and the refined comfort of luxury cruising.
Lexi Thompson
Luke Donald-
Peter Chipchase, Chief Marketing Officer of A&K Travel Group, emphasized that golf is one of the most beloved passions among Crystal’s guests, noting that the Crystal Cup exemplifies the company’s commitment to crafting exclusive experiences that align with its clientele’s interests. Tim Schantz, CEO of Troon, also highlighted the strength of the collaboration, stating that the tournament will grant participants privileged access to some of America’s premier golf courses, blending top-tier golf with the unmistakable luxury of Crystal cruises.
With the launch of the Crystal Cup, Crystal opens a new chapter in its rebirth following its acquisition by A&K Travel Group in 2022 and relaunch in 2023. Featuring ships equipped with putting greens, driving cages, and onboard golf instructors, Crystal offers guests a sophisticated, immersive experience even while at sea. With a renewed fleet, three new ships on the horizon, and an ever-expanding offering, Crystal continues to set the standard for luxury travel.
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