Line cites safety concerns as she reason for replacing Crystal Symphony's calls with visits to Greece
By
Rebecca Gibson |
Crystal Cruises is to replace calls in Turkey with visits to Greek ports on two of Crystal Symphony’s upcoming itinerary due to security concerns.
Crystal Symphony, which had been due to call in Istanbul and Kuşadasi as part of her 24 April and 1 May sailings, will now sail to various destinations in Greece. On her seven-day April itinerary, the ship will head to Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, Rhodes, Souda Bay and Chaina, Navplion (overnight), Hydra and Athens (overnight). Meanwhile, guests sailing on the 12-night May cruise will now be able to visit Athens (overnight), Patmos, Rhodes, Mykonos, Santorini, Navplion, Argostolios, Crotone, Sorrento and Rome in Italy.
Any pre-reserved Crystal Adventures will automatically be cancelled and the line is in the process of developing a host of new excursions ashore, which will be available in the online Guest Check-In/Priority Check-In & Planning Centre at crystalcruises.co.uk.
“The safety and peace of mind of our guests are our primary concerns and we do not take any risks with either,” said Edie Rodriguez, Crystal CEO and president. “The itinerary changes will allow our guests to continue with their planned holidays in the same standard of excellence and luxury, without the added worry of security in a particular destination.”
Turkish ports of call scheduled for Crystal Esprit’s April and November sailings will also be changed, although the new itineraries have yet to be finalised.