Crystal Debussy and Crystal Ravel will now sail in Germany and Austria, rather than in France, when they debut
By
Rebecca Gibson |
Crystal River Cruises is to delay its entrance into the French river cruise market and instead increase its presence on the Danube, Main and Rhine in Germany.
Based on guest feedback lauding the itineraries planned in Germany, Austria, Belgium, Amsterdam and Holland, Crystal Debussy and Crystal Ravel will sail in the region rather than along the Seine, Rhone and Dordogne Rivers in France as originally planned.
“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,” said Edie Rodriguez, Crystal’s CEO and president. “We are listening carefully to what travellers 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.”
Previously designed as Paris-Class river yachts, Crystal Debussy and Crystal Ravel will be extended from 110m to 135m, the maximum size permissible on the Rhine, Main and Danube. 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 759sqft.
The new design places the ships as part of the line’s 106-guest Rhine-class series currently comprising Crystal Bach and Crystal Mahler, which are due to enter service 18 June and 29 August 2017 respectively. Crystal Debussy and Crystal Ravel will be set for maiden voyages in April 2018 and May 2018.
Guests who have already booked 2017 voyages on Crystal Debussy and Crystal Ravel will be offered several compensation options.