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Guests financially impacted by the collapse of Crystal Cruises’ former owner can now claim a cruise credit toward future or pre-existing bookings.
The brands new owners are calling it an Exceptional Initiative, and indeed it is an unprecedented move. Eligible former Crystal guests who hold a verified claim in the Crystal Cruises LLC case can apply for a credit. This can be used towards future Crystal voyages on either Crystal Serenity or Crystal Symphony. The credit can even be applied retroactively against existing bookings.
“This Initiative is a plan we have been working on since we acquired Crystal as it will benefit our most loyal customers. This is not something we were legally obliged to do. However, we believe that being Exceptional means doing what is unexpected, unusual, and unprecedented.”
Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio – Co-Chairman of A&K Travel Group and Crystal.
Who is eligible for the Exceptional Initiative cruise credit
To be eligible for a cruise credit guests must have been a client of the former Crystal Cruises (Crystal Cruises LLC). They must also have filed a valid claim in the Crystal Cruises LLC case for amounts owed in relation to cancelled cruises on Crystal Symphony or Crystal Serenity. Finally, any claim must still be valid with amounts remaining outstanding.
How to use the Exceptional Initiative cruise credit
The process of using the cruise credit is relatively simple. However, there are some key facts worth knowing.
Most importantly, guests must apply for a credit through the Crystal website by 1 June 2023.
Also, any verified credit will be split into five instalments which can then be applied to five individual bookings. These may be either new bookings, or used retroactively against existing bookings. However, the first instalment must be applied to a booking on or before 1 July 2023.
Unsurprisingly, Crystal tell us the total credit amount is limited to outstanding balances owed to guests, minus money already refunded through the insolvency proceedings.
When will Crystal sail again?
Crystal will set sail once more in the second half of 2023. Crystal Serenity will be first to welcome guests back on board sailing from Marseille, France for a Mediterranean cruise on 31 July 2023. The smaller Crystal Symphony will make her inaugural sailing for the renewed brand on 1 September 2023 departing Athens, Greece for Istanbul, Turkey.
For full terms and conditions visit the Crystal website.
About the Author: Jason Kerr
