Two Crystal Cruises leaders confirmed, ships at Fincantieri for upgrades

This returns two key leaders to the Crystal brand, providing continuity and stability under A&K Travel Group's ownership.

Ships arrive at Fincantieri

The confirmations came as Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, co-chairman of the A&K Travel Group, and Cristina Levis, CEO, were on hand at Fincantieri in Trieste for the arrival of Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity. The ships will be refurbished there before entering service in 2023.

Lefebvre took the opportunity to formally announce, on behalf of himself and Co-Chairman Geoffrey Kent, the appointments of Anderson and Leypold, which had been expected. 

Anderson called Kent and Lefebvre 'icons and innovators in luxury travel,' adding that  'With their ownership, leadership and vision for these ships and the award-winning Crystal Cruises brand, we are embarking on a new and exciting chapter.'

Enhancement plans

Leypold expressed a commitment for the new Crystal Cruises to 'not only recreate, but enhance the sophisticated luxury service, cuisine, entertainment and shore experiences in collaboration with our sister company, Abercrombie & Kent.'

Leypold, who's been five years with Crystal in a recent stint and nearly eight years earlier, welcomed the return of Crystal crew and underscored they will be given priority in the hiring process.

More suites, reduced capacity

As for the ship refurbishments, Levis said they will be 'extensive' and will 'elevate the customer experience.' Some staterooms will be combined, creating more butler suites and reducing overall guest capacity.

'This will bring a gracious new feeling of spaciousness to the restaurants and public areas,' Levis said.

The CrystalCruises.com website will soon provide further updates on appointments, ship enhancements, new itineraries and employment opportunities.