Crystal is back — and more refined than ever. Under the ownership of the A&K Travel Group, the beloved cruise line returns to the seas with two beautifully reimagined ships: Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony. More than a simple redesign, this is a renaissance — one that breathes new life into Crystal storied legacy while charting a bold course forward. With expanded suites, elevated interiors, and renewed public spaces, the ships emerge as icons of modern elegance.
To lead this transformation, two of the world’s foremost cruise design firms were entrusted with the task: Tillberg Design of Sweden and the Italian architecture firm GEM — both experts in marrying innovation with tradition.
A Contemporary Vision with Classic Roots
“This is a new breed of luxury,” says Peter Snellman, partner and design director at Tillberg. “We’ve renewed key public spaces, preserving the timeless Crystal style while adding a contemporary edge.”
Working on major social hubs, dining rooms, and the Aurora spa, the Tillberg team infused the ships with Mediterranean warmth and tranquility. Soft natural tones, thoughtful lighting, and classic materials create an atmosphere that feels both fresh and familiar. Aurora — named for the Roman goddess of dawn — was designed to reflect and refract daylight in ways that echo the rhythms of nature, creating serenity from sunrise to sunset.
Italian Craftsmanship, Reimagined Suites
GEM, a family-run firm with nearly 50 years of cruise design experience, was no stranger to Crystal’s vessels. Having worked on the 2016 and 2018 refurbishments, they returned in 2023 to take things further — enhancing space, function, and refinement.
GEM’s work included merging smaller accommodations into stunning new suite categories, such as the Sapphire Veranda Suite and the Junior Crystal Penthouse Suite. “We brought in contemporary design with a classic soul,” explains Lorenzo Mortola, GEM’s managing director. “From Alpine-sourced marble to Venetian linens by Jesurum 1870, every detail reflects the finest in Italian taste.”
Guests can expect a soft palette of pastels, greys, and beiges, elegantly layered with luxe textures and gold accents — all designed to echo the calm beauty of the open sea. “We want guests to feel like they’re coming home — only better,” says Mortola.
A New Era of Crystal Begins
With nearly one staff member per guest and a deep commitment to hospitality, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony are all set to showcase their meticulous structural and design splendor to the world. Their itineraries span the globe — from Europe and the Mediterranean, to Canada and New England, the Caribbean and Panama Canal, the Middle East, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, and the South Pacific.
The winds of change are indeed swirling around Crystal and these two remarkable ships. Let your Tully Luxury Travel Designer pair you with the perfect itinerary for a modern-yet-iconic cruise indulgence.