Crystal’s river ship delay

CRYSTAL Cruises will fully compensate passengers and agents affected by the delay of its next new river cruise vessels, Crystal Bach and Crystal Mahler.

Guests who had already booked on the newbuilds, which have been bumped back until Aug and Sep, will be reimbursed for the cruise and their airfare cancellation fees.

It is the second time these vessels have been delayed, as they were originally planned for deployment in France from Jun and Aug.

They will also receive a free cruise and “generous credit” towards future Crystal experiences.

Travel agents’ commissions will be “fully protected” & the cruise line said agents would “also receive sailing privileges on select Crystal River Cruises voyages”.

Crystal Bach and Crystal Mahler will now sail their maiden voyages along the Rhine and Danube rivers on 13 Aug and 30 Sep, respectively.

The line backed off plans to enter France last year ( CW 02 Aug), citing the “general geopolitical climate” and redeployed the ships, allowing a 25m extension in their length.

In a statement, Crystal said it had determined “more time is needed to prepare the vessels for our guests”.

“While we are eager to welcome guests aboard these unique vessels, the focus must remain on ensuring seamless delivery in the celebrated six-star level of luxury service for which Crystal is known,” Crystal said.

The Rhine class river yachts are being touted as Europe’s only all-balcony, all-suite river ships & will feature glass roofs & retractable sunroofs over public spaces.