Crystal postpones river cruise launch in France

Crystal River Cruises has decided to delay its launch in France and will instead place four of its planned new-build river yachts on the Danube, Main and Rhine.

Crystal Debussy and Crystal Ravel were originally due to travel along the Seine, Rhone and Dordogne beginning in June and August 2017 respectively.

Terror attacks in Paris in November 2015 and the more recent attack in Nice have led France to declare a state of emergency, and visitor numbers to the capital have fallen.

When asked if this had influenced the decision, a Crystal spokesman said the company has heard ‘general concerns from agents and guests’ about recent incidents in Europe, but not specific to France.

"The majority of feedback stressed a strong interest in the Rhine and Danube itineraries as well as the vessel size," he said.

Crystal said the ‘shift in focus’ means it will now need to redesign and enlarge the yachts.

The increased length allows for the addition of a swimming pool with a sliding glass roof and more of the ship’s larger suites, which range in size up to 759 square feet.

"Unlike an ocean-going ship that can accommodate a change in itinerary with short notice, a river ship operates within more confined parameters and is unable to reroute easily," says Crystal CEO and president Edie Rodriguez.

"We are listening carefully to what travelers are telling us and have concluded that the best way to anticipate, meet and surpass their expectations is by making this move earlier rather than later."

Guests who have already booked 2017 voyages on Crystal Debussy and Crystal Ravel are being offered various incentives to make up for the changes.

Crystal Bach and Crystal Mahler, also in the line’s 106-guest Rhine-class series, are due to enter service June 18 and August 29 2017 respectively.

Crystal Debussy and Crystal Ravel will be set for maiden voyages in April 2018 and May 2018 respectively with detailed itineraries to be announced shortly.

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