Crystal Serenity Completes Sea Trials As It Readies for Inaugural July Sailing

One year after Crystal Cruises was purchased by A&K Travel Group, the Crystal Serenity is nearly ready to emerge for its inaugural sailing under new ownership.

Crystal Cruises announced today that the Serenity has just completed its sea trials in anticipation of its upcoming cruise from Marseille, France, which is slated to depart on July 31. As part of the trials, the ship had a contingent of officers, technicians, and engineers on board to test the vessel’s technical and mechanical systems. All passed inspection.

“Completing sea trials is one of the final milestones needed before we can officially return to service,” said Senior Vice President of Marine Operations Roberto Fazi. “We are proud of the entire team who helped get us to this day both on board and shoreside.”

The ship is now in the final stages of being refurbished at a shipyard in Italy. When guests board the Serenity, they will find updated and larger suites with artisanal finishes, refreshed specialty dining venues and cutting-edge onboard wellness, including the completely renovated and renamed Aurōra Spa. Additional highlights include a new pickleball court and “re-energized” entertainment and events.

Earlier this month, Crystal unveiled the design concepts for its two ships—the Crystal Serenity and the Crystal Symphony.

“As we welcome guests back to Crystal, we are delighted to unveil a look and feel that blends the best of its renowned past with a new vision fit for a bright future ahead,” Cristina Levis, chief executive officer of A&K Travel Group, which purchased Crystal last year, said at the time.

Guestrooms and suites are being redesigned by the GEM architectural firm and will feature “neutral tones and high-end fixtures complemented with subtle hues of pastel colors and shades of gray and beige that resonate with the color of the ocean,” Crystal said.

The ships will also be equipped with new accommodations’ categories, including the Junior Crystal Penthouse Suite and Single Guest Room with Ocean View for single travelers.

Following its upcoming July 31 cruise from Marseille, Crystal Serenity, will spend the rest of the summer in the Mediterranean before repositioning to North America in September for Canadian and Caribbean sailings for the remainder of 2023.

The ship is also scheduled to host the highly anticipated 2024 World Cruise.