by Ana Figueroa
Last updated: 2:56 PM ET, Thu August 23, 2018
It's still a few years before Crystal Endeavour debuts. But, her advance notices are topping the charts. No less than German Federal Chancellor Angela Merkel has already proclaimed that she'd like to see the finished product.
Merkel led the dignitaries on hand at the ship's recent keel laying in Stralsund, Germany.
Set for delivery in 2020, Crystal Endeavor is the first luxury vessel in the Crystal Expedition Yacht Cruises fleet. She'll come on line as the world's largest Polar-Class vessel, with a capacity of 200 passengers. Based on the previews, we can expect some game-changing features combined with signature Crystal style.
Crystal is billing Endeavor's 100 suites as the largest and most luxurious in expedition cruising. They'll feature verandahs and butler service. Other amenities include king-sized beds, bedside iPads, walk-in closets, heated storage for drying parkas, heated bathroom floors, dual vanities and rain-bath showers.
In addition to 90 Deluxe Suites of 304 square feet, Crystal Endeavor features eight 457-square foot Penthouse Suites. Two Crystal Penthouse Suites come in at an impressive 985 and 1,130 square feet, respectively. The larger of the two is a two-bedroom unit.
The other has a one-bedroom layout, but it connects to an adjacent Deluxe Suite. That makes it idea for a family group. Both of the Crystal Penthouse Suites offer guests the choice of in-suite dining in a dedicated dining area, with its own butler's prep space.
"Crystal Endeavor's suites are an important part of the overall experience that is rooted in luxury and comfort, even while in the midst of extreme adventure," said Crystal president and CEO, Tom Wolber. "These suites will be private havens of relaxation and personal service welcoming travelers as they embark on journeys to the far corners of the world."
Crystal Endeavor's inaugural season will travel to those far corners and back again. Extending from August 2020 through January 2021, it includes voyages of 12 to 22 days. Itineraries will call on Japan and the Russian Far East; Indonesia, Borneo and the Philippines; New Zealand and Tasmania; Australia, the Great Barrier Reef and Antarctica.
"Every facet of Crystal Endeavor is meant to take travelers beyond their previous travel boundaries and expectations. Her exceptional design, luxury accommodations and amenities have already set the stage for this, and now, as we unveil her first six months of journeys, travelers have a tremendous glimpse of the grand discoveries in store for this groundbreaking yacht," noted Wolber. "Crystal Endeavor will take guests to remote destinations not typically accessible on a cruise, as well as some iconic places, albeit with a decidedly adventurous twist."
Indeed. Where Crystal Endeavor goes, adventure follows. Guests can expect opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, snorkeling, diving, helicopter and Zodiac tours, and much more depending on the region.
Pampering awaits back on board, in the full-service spa and salon. And, though the ship ventures to some of the world's most remote regions, fine dining is always close at hand. Crystal Endeavor will feature six restaurants in all, including Nobu Matsuhisa's Umi Uma.
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