Crystal Cancels AirCruises Program For 2017 And 2018
Crystal will focus on offering the aircraft for full charters instead of selling seats.
Crystal AirCruises has canceled its six-figure-price-tagged luxury Air-Cruise Program, apparently in favor of using Crystal Skye, its converted Boeing 777, for whole aircraft private-jet charters instead.
Travelers booked on all previously scheduled Crystal AirCruises in 2017 and 2018 will receive a full refund and a complimentary experience on a Crystal ocean or river cruise in either year, the line said in a press release in response to an inquiry by TMR.
Seven voyages had been scheduled, priced at six figures per person. They were:
In 2017:
Peninsula Grand Inaugural Crystal AirCruise, August 31
Around the World: Iconic Sites, October 21
Holidays Around the World, December 22
In 2018:
Temples, Treasures & Safaris, March 31
Savoring the Winelands, June 1
Exotic Adventures, September 8
South Pacific Explorer, October 13
“As Crystal expands its portfolio of global travel experiences, the shift of Crystal Skye to special interest charters provides a distinct luxury option that is in great demand and is unmatched by any hotel, resort or cruise line in the world,” the press release said, noting that Crystal Skye already has been chartered for an inaugural 10 Day/9 Night beginning September 29, during the Golden Week celebration in China. That charter will be managed by Genting Hong Kong, Crystal’s parent company.
Genting Cruise Lines president Kent Zhu noted that particular itinerary “will be attractive to all Asians, including three-generation families, who often travel together during this extended holiday period.”
When Crystal takes delivery of Crystal Skye on August 1, it will be the largest global private jet tour travel option, with the highest crew-to-passenger ratio of any twin-aisle aircraft and room for 84 guests. It sports a social lounge with a stand-up bar where travelers can mingle, an executive chef, two state-of-the-art galleys and a premium wine list from the Crystal Skye Cellar.
“The seamless luxury of the celebrated Crystal Experience has long extended to corporations and private charter groups seeking the most enticing incentive experiences possible for chartered travel and events,” said Crystal president and CEO Edie Rodriguez. “Our growing fleet of luxury vessels only increases the options available for these guests, as the standard of customized luxury and personalized service remains unparalleled throughout the Crystal fleet.”
