Crystal: “World’s Best” at the Travel + Leisure Awards
Crystal, a global benchmark in the luxury cruise industry, has been named Top Midsize-Ship Ocean Cruise Line in the prestigious Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2025, according to the results of the magazine’s annual reader survey. This achievement reaffirms the company’s long-standing excellence, having held this top position for nearly thirty years, ever since the award’s inception.
Since 1995, Travel + Leisure, the most authoritative travel publication in the United States, has invited its readers to vote for the world’s best cruise lines based on several key criteria: quality of cabins and onboard facilities, dining, service, itineraries and destinations, onboard and shore activities, and overall value.
Crystal Worlds best
The complete list of the World’s Best Awards 2025 will be published in the August issue of the magazine and made available online at: travelandleisure.com/worlds-best-awards-2025-11744233.
Crystal’s management expressed deep appreciation for this latest recognition. According to Cristina Levis, CEO of the Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group, the award is a testament to the unwavering dedication of the Crystal team and the continued trust and loyalty of its guests.
In 2023, the company was relaunched with a new identity — Crystal: Exceptional at Sea — while maintaining its signature style and heritage, including the return of over 80% of its original crew. The brand’s two flagship vessels, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, underwent extensive multi-million-dollar refurbishments, emerging with larger, more refined suites featuring artisanal finishes, cutting-edge wellness spaces such as the newly introduced Aurōra Spa, Broadway-style entertainment, and world-class dining — including the only Nobu restaurant at sea.
5. Burgers feature kobe beef, Beefbar by Crystal
Crystal montecarlo opening
Crystal Symphony Osteria D’Ovidio
Following its relaunch, Crystal introduced four exclusive partnerships: the first Beefbar at sea, the debut of Le Casino de Monte-Carlo in collaboration with Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (SBM), artisanal Badiani gelato served at the Scoops Gelato Bar, and a new menu crafted by the renowned Alajmo Brothers, set to debut this summer at Osteria d’Ovidio.
Bernie Leypold, Senior Vice President of Hotel Operations, highlighted that the award from Travel + Leisure is a meaningful recognition of the passion and dedication of the entire team. He added that the relaunch and refurbishment of the two ships were a true labor of love, designed to elevate the guest experience to unprecedented heights.
Further affirming its long-term vision, Crystal announced in 2024 the construction of three new ocean ships, in partnership with the prestigious Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri. The first ship is scheduled for delivery in 2028, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the company.
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