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Crystal Symphony to homeport in Thessaloniki in 2025

PHOTO: HOLLY PAYNE cruise_thessaloniki_2.jpg
Theodora Riga and the entrance to the Port of Thessaloniki's brand-new terminal
Thessaloniki will serve as a homeport for Crystal Symphony in 2025 as Crystal becomes the first high-end international cruise line to use the port for full turnarounds.

Crystal additionally will make transit calls in 2024. 

Culture, gastronomy and infrastructure 

‘... For Crystal, the choice of Thessaloniki as a homeporting destination is a strategic decision, which affirms our commitment to offering exceptional experiences to our passengers,' said Spyros Almpertis, VP port operations and itinerary planning & fuel management. 'We are confident that the tourism, cultural and gastronomic opportunities of Thessaloniki, combined with the high-quality infrastructure and services of its port, will provide ideal memories to Crystal Symphony guests.’ 

Crystal plans to relaunch this summer, starting with Crystal Serenity on July 31 from Marseille followed by Crystal Symphony on September 1 out of Athens.

Continuing to invest

Theodora Riga, Port of Thessaloniki’s CCO & director of strategic communications, described the ‘significant development’ as opening a new chapter for the port, enhancing its position in the international cruise sector. ‘At the same time, this development will enhance the tourism product of the city of Thessaloniki, generating major added value for the local economy and society,’ she added. ‘We dynamically continue our investments in the Port of Thessaloniki, to further upgrade our facilities and promote the city of Thessaloniki as a leading sea tourism destination.’

Crystal Symphony

Crystal Symphony is currently undergoing an extensive refurbishment in Trieste. Enhancements will include larger, updated suites with artisanal finishes, cutting-edge wellness facilities and the recently announced new Aurōra Spa. Passengers will also find a new look for specialty dining restaurants Umi Uma and Osteria d’Ovidio, a new pickleball court, refreshed entertainment and events, and a space-to-passengers ratio of 1 to 93.1 cubic feet.