Crystal has secured funding for its first two new-build high-end cruise ships, marking a significant milestone in the company’s fleet expansion programme.

The cruise line – which already has two ships it inherited when it took over the brand – confirmed on Tuesday it had received support from an Italian export credit agency, following news that it was enjoying a “good migration of customers” from competitor companies. 

The two vessels, both of which have been developed by international architectural firms, will each have a gross tonnage of 61,800 tons and a capacity of 650 passengers. 

They will feature all-suite accommodations with private verandas and single occupancy categories designed for solo travellers, as well as one of the highest crew-to-passenger ratios in the luxury cruise segment.

Construction at Italian shipyard Fincantieri is currently underway, with the first ship expected for delivery in May 2028.  

“Securing this financing represents a decisive step forward in Crystal’s expansion and demonstrates the strong market confidence in our strategy,”  said Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, executive chairman of A&K Travel Group, Crystal’s parent company. “We are grateful for the trust placed in us by our banking partners. This consortium’s backing validates our position in the ultra-luxury cruise segment.”