Cruise & Cruise Line

Crystal AirCruises Prepares for Inaugural Itinerary by Partnering with The Peninsula Hotels

Jason Leppert
by Jason Leppert
Last updated: 7:00 PM ET, Mon October 31, 2016

We're getting a clearer picture of what Crystal AirCruises will look like, and the image is remarkable. As part of Crystal Cruises ever growing portfolio of luxury travel brands, the company's Boeing 777-200LR jet will first take flight on August 31, 2017 with a special partnership with The Peninsula Hotels.

The Peninsula Grand Inaugural Crystal AirCruise 27-day itinerary will feature 10 Peninsula properties at 10 international cities for unique guest experiences. After all, Crystal had the glamorous transportation down pat but still needed a grounded home base for land stays, and the brand is a perfect fit. Now, Crystal AirCruises can attract travelers from two established groups of loyalists as well as newcomers.

[READMORE]READ MORE: Crystal Cruises Brings High Seas Luxury to Cruising Altitude[/READMORE]

"It is our honor to partner with The Peninsula Hotels for the landmark occasion of Crystal AirCruises' inaugural journey, as their reputation for excellence is legendary, and their philosophy of exceeding guests' expectations and wishes aligns beautifully with Crystal's own," said Crystal CEO and President, Edie Rodriguez. "For more than two decades and throughout our tremendous expansion, our guests continue to expect innovative experiences and new heights of luxury with their Crystal vacations. Crystal AirCruises will offer these with our signature meticulous service and attention to detail."

Experiential highlights will include a rooftop cocktail reception in New York overlooking the metropolitan skyline, a private dinner party on the Great Wall of China, an "Old Shanghai"-style dinner at The Peninsula Shanghai, a Loy Krathong "Festival of Lights" celebration at The Peninsula Bangkok, a private Kabuki performance in Tokyo and a behind-the-scenes Champagne lunch in Paris.

"Two world class brands are partnering to create the ultimate global journey with 'The Peninsula Grand Inaugural' Crystal AirCruise," says Simon Yip, Vice President of Sales, The Peninsula Hotels. "We couldn't imagine a more perfect partner than Crystal to offer a guest experience reminiscent of the historical 'grand tours,' now elevated to include a private air experience unlike any other paired with our incredible hotels and bespoke destination programs."

[READMORE]READ MORE: Crystal Cruises Reveals Stylish New Website[/READMORE]

Among The Peninsula's added touches will be its famed Afternoon Tea experience showcased at each location and Peninsula Academy programs for special cultural experiences like dumpling-making in Beijing and Chinese tea appreciation.

As to the wide-body aircraft itself, Crystal will have it outfitted with Crystal Exclusive Class seats convertible to 180-degree lie-flat beds, a social lounge and bar, two galleys and fine dining and wines to match. The entertainment system also will include Bose noise-cancelling headphones, Apple iPads, free Wi-Fi, interactive televisions with on-demand content and USB and power outlets.

Bookings open tomorrow, on November 1, 2016, with rates beginning at $159,000 per person.


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Jason Leppert

Jason Leppert

Jason Leppert - Senior Writer, Cruises and Cruise Travel - is a San Diego-based cruising expert with more than 100 sailings...

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