While Cruise Line International Association’s data has shown global passenger numbers in 2023 surpassing that of 2019 – 31.7 million against 29.7 million – and projected numbers to reach 37.1 million in 2025, Crystal Cruises’ sales chief noted that the Asian market has yet to see full recovery.
Tony Archbold, vice president, sales, Asia with Crystal Cruises told TTG Asia: “Asia has not reached its full potential yet, where passengers have greater knowledge of cruising and are driving demand. Singapore and Hong Kong have the greatest potential to grow.”
Archbold expressed confidence in grooming the region, stating that Crystal Cruises has an advantage from Asian consumers’ recognition of Abercrombie & Kent brands being the leading supplier of luxury experiences and “the best on land and sea”.
Crystal Cruises became part of the Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group in 2022.
Post-lockdown, Crystal Cruises ships have reduced passenger numbers onboard Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity by 30 per cent, capped at 606 and 740 respectively, to allow guests more space. There are also more venues for after-dinner entertainment. In addition to the piano bar, night club and show room, the cruise operator unveiled its Monte Carlo Casino, run by the famed Monaco-based establishment, at Christmas last year.
On the health and wellness front, the refurbished Aurora Spa on Crystal Symphony offers 10 treatment rooms and 12 on Crystal Serenity, where the popular, non-surgical Thermage Treatment procedure is conducted. Additionally, a nutritionist oversees the onboard menu and guest speakers conduct wellness talks.
The famed Nobu restaurant concept, specifically Umi Uma by chef Nobu Matsuhisa, is currently available exclusively at sea, on Crystal Cruises ships.
Across the board, Archbold noted that high-net-worth individuals are looking for a sense of adventure and engagement with a destination, combined with culinary experiences, and are travelling farther and sailing for longer.
He shared that the Crystal Symphony which recently departed Sri Lanka for Africa was heading to Cape Town, Mombassa and Mali before retuning to Asia.
“Europe is booming for Asia and is the number one destination. Pre-pandemic, the duration used to be between seven and 10 days. Now it is up to between 14 and 18, 19 days,” he said.
Bookings from Asia have emerged for Crystal Cruises’ 140-day World Cruise and 40- to 60-day Grand Cruise.
“Passengers are also younger, in their late-40s, early-50s, and many can be mobile and continue doing business with Starlink internet offering high-speed, reliable connectivity at sea.”
According to consultants, Asian guests are sticking with Crystal Cruises and taking up repeat journeys. Therefore, Archbold said it was crucial for luxury consultants to match guests with the right product.
Looking ahead, the cruise line will welcome two new ships soon – one to launch in spring 2028 and the other tentatively scheduled for 2030, with an option for a third by 2032.
