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Crystal AirCruises morphs into special interest charters concept

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Crystal Skye
Crystal AirCruises’ Boeing 777 is being shifted to special interest charters. The first will be a 10-night 'Golden Week Holiday' program departing from Hong Kong Sept. 29 and managed by Genting Hong Kong.

Crystal said the move serves the vast luxury travel market in China and increases its brand's presence in the region.

Travelers booked on previously scheduled journeys in 2017 and 2018 will receive a full refund and a free Crystal ocean or river cruise.

Canceled 2017 trips are the Aug. 31 'Peninsula Grand Inaugural Crystal AirCruise,' the Oct. 21 'Around the World: Iconic Sites' and the Dec. 22 'Holidays Around the World.' Impacted 2018 departures are the March 31 'Temples, Treasures & Safaris,' the June 1 'Savoring the Winelands,' the Sept. 8 'Exotic Adventures' and the Oct. 13 'South Pacific Explorer.'

'The Golden Week Holiday in China is an opportune time for the launch of Crystal AirCruises in Asia,' said Kent Zhu, president of Genting Cruise Lines. 'The itinerary will be attractive to all Asians, including three-generation families, who often travel together during this extended holiday period.'

The detailed itinerary will be unveiled by the end of June.

The Boeing 777 aircraft, Crystal Skye, is being configured for just 84 travelers in seats that convert to 180-degree lie-flat beds. It has a lounge with stand-up bar, two galleys, a wine cellar and numerous other special amenities.

Crystal is due to take delivery of Crystal Skye on Aug. 1 from Greenpoint Technologies in Washington. It will be operated for Crystal AirCruises by Comlux Aruba NV.