There’s something undeniably romantic about savoring authentic Italian gelato while watching the Mediterranean sunset from a ship’s deck. Now, Crystal cruise passengers can experience exactly that, thanks to a new partnership between the luxury cruise line and Badiani, one of Italy’s most revered gelato artisans.
From Florence to the high seas
The collaboration brings the storied taste of Florence’s oldest gelateria directly to Crystal’s Scoops Gelato Bar aboard both Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity. Founded in 1932 by Idilio Badiani and now helmed by Paolo Pomposi, Badiani has spent nearly a century perfecting the art of gelato making in the heart of Tuscany. Their reputation extends far beyond Italy’s borders – the brand now operates 25 locations across Europe, from London to Paris to Barcelona.
What sets Badiani apart is their unwavering commitment to traditional methods and premium ingredients. Their signature Buontalenti gelato, crafted with just cream, milk, sugar, and eggs, pays homage to Bernardo Buontalenti, the 16th-century Florentine architect credited with introducing gelato to the Medici court. It’s this kind of historical reverence that makes the partnership feel particularly fitting for Crystal’s discerning clientele.
Twenty-two flavors of Italian excellence
The new menu at Scoops features 22 carefully curated flavors, from classics like stracciatella and hazelnut to more adventurous options such as croccantino al rum and camarello salato (salted caramel). Passengers with dietary restrictions aren’t forgotten either – lactose-free versions of popular flavors like pistachio ensure everyone can indulge.
But it’s not just about variety. Badiani’s artisanal approach involves slow churning to preserve texture and seasonal sourcing of fruits, resulting in gelato that tastes markedly different from mass-produced alternatives. The company’s commitment to sustainability – including a zero-waste water system at their Florence laboratory and partnerships with local farmers – aligns perfectly with Crystal’s own environmental initiatives.
Part of a bigger luxury push
The partnership represents Crystal’s broader strategy of elevating every aspect of the cruise experience. Since A&K Travel Group acquired the brand in 2022, Crystal has been methodically upgrading its offerings, from larger suites with artisanal finishes to world-class dining venues featuring Michelin-rated chef Nobu and the only Beefbar at sea.
For passengers, the Badiani collaboration means access to gelato that would otherwise require a trip to Florence – or at least one of their European outposts. It’s the kind of authentic, place-specific experience that transforms a cruise from mere transportation into cultural immersion, one perfectly crafted scoop at a time.
About the Author: Jason Kerr
