Crystal Symphony Debuts Down Under

The Crystal Symphony docked at Freemantle, Western Australia, yesterday after undergoing a multi-million-dollar makeover under the new ownership of Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group.

The refurbished cruise ship boasts bigger cabins with artisanal finishes, additional wellness options, onboard entertainment, and the return of UMI UMA, a Michelin-starred Chef Master Chef Nobuyuki (Nobu) dining experience.

Crystal Symphony will call in Freemantle, Busselton, Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney on five distinct cruises, with some itineraries continuing to New Zealand’s Bay of Islands and Auckland.

“We knew Crystal had a loyal following from agents and guests in Australia and New Zealand, and the reception we have received so far has confirmed it,” said Tony Archbold, Crystal’s Vice President, Sales APAC.

“Both the trade and our guests are excited that under the new ownership of Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group, we have combined two of the most respected brands in travel, and the market is responding as we offer guests the best of land and sea. “Crystal is back and better than ever!” “From Australia’s ancient rock art and fine cuisine to New Zealand’s enchanting fjords and legendary Māori culture, Crystal is back and better than ever!”

Symphony’s five voyages take guests to Australia and New Zealand’s coasts, with Abercrombie & Kent land excursions leading.

Crystal Symphony’s five sailings include:

• Ten nights Perth (Fremantle) – Sydney Departing 6 December
• Fourteen nights Perth (Fremantle) – Auckland Departing 6 December
• Four nights Sydney – Auckland Departing 16 December
• Fifteen nights Auckland – Sydney Departing 20 December
• Seventeen nights Sydney – Auckland – Sydney Departing 4 January 2024

The Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group acquired the ship in 2022, with Crystal Cruises beginning a new chapter with the debut of a new brand earlier this year.