After Crystal Cruises relaunched under new owners Abercrombie & Kent two years ago, one of the biggest laments from passengers was the ships' lack of a casino.
Well, management listened. And the luxury line has announced it is bringing back casinos to Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony through a partnership with Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, a hospitality and gaming company that is the largest employer in Monaco.
The only Casino de Monte-Carlo at sea
This will mark the first and only Casino de Monte-Carlo at sea — and a new chapter for the brand that promises to add an elevated level of entertainment and gaming experiences.
The gambling venues will debut aboard Crystal Symphony during the chairmen’s cruise departing from Venice on Nov. 14 and on Crystal Serenity this December. The casino will also be featured on the two oceangoing ships during future sailings and in all of Crystal's new vessels, with the exception of expedition vessels.
The 1,000+-square-foot casinos will offer people a chance to try their luck at slots, blackjack, roulette and other games of chance.
"We are delighted to welcome Casino de Monte-Carlo into the Crystal family as our newest collaborator,” said executive chairman of A&K Travel Group Manfredi Lefebvre on the groundbreaking relationship. “This affiliation symbolizes our commitment to offering our guests the finest entertainment and gaming experiences available at sea. Together, we aim to create unforgettable moments and continue to set new standards of excellence in the cruise industry."
Stephane Valeri, CEO of Monte-Carlo SBM, added, "We are excited to join forces with Crystal to deliver the unique Casino de Monte-Carlo experience at sea. With our combined expertise, we are confident that we will provide a gaming moment unlike any other in the cruise industry.”
"We have listened attentively to the feedback from our loyal guests regarding their desire to have casinos back onboard, and we are proud to announce that we will deliver on our promise,” said Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group. “At Crystal, like at Monte-Carlo SBM, guest satisfaction and enjoyment are paramount, and this alliance with Casino de Monte-Carlo underscores our dedication to fulfilling their wishes and exceeding their expectations. We are confident the reintroduction of casinos will further enhance the overall cruise experience, providing our guests with the entertainment options they crave while sailing with us."
So OK, everyone, it's almost time to roll the dice!