Crystal Cruises has become the first cruise line to resume cruising from New York City, with Crystal Symphony sailing to Bermuda as part of a series of nine week-long roundtrip voyages from the Big Apple.
Each Friday until 19 November, Crystal Symphony will depart New York’s Manhattan Cruise Terminal on its Luxury Bermuda Escape. The ship operated a similar series of cruises from Boston in late August and early September.
“We are delighted to sail once again from New York’s Manhattan Cruise Terminal, offering our guests the chance to experience Crystal’s unmatched luxury, Michelin-level cuisine and genuine personalised service on voyages close to home,” said Jack Anderson, President of Crystal.
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Crystal Symphony will operate with all guests and crew fully vaccinated and following all local health guidelines and protocols when visiting Bermuda. Crystal has implemented new Crystal Clean+ protocols that address the unique challenges of COVID-19 with measures that are under continual review based on scientific data and evolving recommendations from local and global authorities.
The itinerary includes three-days in Bermuda.
New York City Economic Development Corporation President and CEO, Rachel Loeb, said “we are excited to welcome the cruise lines back to New York cruise terminals as a sign of New York City’s recovery. The cruise industry helps generate millions of dollars in tourism revenue across the city, bolstering Broadway, restaurants, museums, and other special events that translate into jobs for New Yorkers.”
In Bermuda, Crystal Symphony will dock at the Royal Naval Dockyard, home to historic architecture, shopping, galleries, restaurants, and more. Whether exploring the cobbled streets of the century’s old town and UNESCO World Heritage Site of St. George, biking the scenic Bermuda Railway Trail, or enjoying the pink-sand beaches of Bermuda’s South Shore, guests will encounter endless wonders and stunning natural beauty.
Last week, Crystal announced that it has extended its mandatory vaccination requirement for all guests (12 and over) and crew through 2022 for its ocean and expedition cruising.
Antarctica launch for Crystal Endeavor
Meanwhile, Crystal confirmed on Friday [24 September 2021] it will proceed with Crystal Endeavor‘s maiden season in Antarctica following Argentina’s decision to reopen its borders for foreigners as of 1 November 2021.
“Certain requirements will be in place including a vaccine requirement for all visitors; and a negative PCR test within 72 hours of embarkation or an antigen test at the point of entry (this requirement will be confirmed by the health authority at a later date),” Crystal said.
Children under the age of 12 who are ineligible for a vaccine will be required to quarantine and will receive an antigen test upon entry and will receive a PCR test on day 7 of the visit.