3 minute read
Crystal just pulled the curtain back on its first new ocean ship in 25 years, and the name is officially Crystal Grace. For a brand that’s spent the last two years rebuilding its reputation under Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group, this reveal feels like the real beginning of Crystal’s next era. And after sailing the refurbished Crystal Symphony myself in 2023, this announcement hits a little differently.
A New Step Forward for Crystal
Crystal Grace is set for delivery in May 2028 with an inaugural sailing planned for June 11 of the same year. Crystal says the ship represents a new level of luxury for the line while still keeping the familiar calm, polished atmosphere longtime guests love. Based on my own Symphony experience, that “quiet luxury” angle is where Crystal shines, so seeing them commit to it in a new build is promising.
What We Know About Crystal Grace
Crystal Grace will measure 61,800 gross tons and carry 650 guests in all-suite accommodations. That small-ship feel is what sets Crystal apart, and the size alone tells me they’re sticking to their strengths instead of chasing the mega-ship trend.
A full wraparound promenade is also confirmed, which is becoming increasingly rare in modern ship design. Morning laps with uninterrupted ocean views are back on the menu.
Dining Designed for Food Lovers
Crystal didn’t hold back on the culinary lineup:
- Umi Uma, the only Nobu restaurant at sea
- Beefbar, exclusive to Crystal
- Dishes from the Michelin-starred Alajmo brothers at Osteria d’Ovidio
And yes, all of it is included.
One of the highlights on Symphony was how consistently good the dining was, so I’m curious to see how Crystal elevates things when they’re not working within the constraints of a refurbished vessel.
Elevated Shore Experiences
Because the brand is owned by Abercrombie & Kent, Crystal Grace will also feature shore programs curated by A&K’s global network of destination management companies. This is something no other ocean line can replicate at the same scale. Expect land experiences that go beyond the usual “best of the port” highlights.
Will the Timeline Hold?
In my video, I talk about how new-build timelines often shift. Cruise ships get delayed all the time, whether due to shipyard bottlenecks, supply chain issues or regulatory changes. Crystal Grace is aiming for a 2028 debut, and while that’s the plan for now, it’s always smart to keep expectations flexible. The cruise industry is unpredictable, and history backs that up.
Why I’m Personally Excited
My 2023 sailing on Crystal Symphony was my first real look at Crystal’s post-relaunch identity. The service, food quality and overall energy onboard made me curious about what the brand would do next. Crystal Grace feels like the answer. And yes, I’m already hoping to step aboard the moment she launches so I can compare Symphony’s modernized experience with a brand-new ship built from the ground up.
What’s Still to Come
Crystal will reveal suite categories in December along with more design details, new onboard concepts and the full list of inaugural voyages. The 2028 season is expected to open for sale in April 2026.
I’ll keep covering updates here and on my channel as Crystal releases more information.
