Travel agency network Virtuoso said the new Crystal luxury cruise line has been named a preferred partner.
A&K Travel Group is reviving Crystal, having acquired the brand, its guest list and its two oceangoing ships (Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony) last year following the demise of the old Crystal Cruises in February 2022.
The ships are undergoing renovations, and the Serenity’s inaugural sailing for the new Crystal is scheduled to depart July 31 from Marseille, France. The Symphony is due to re-enter service on Sept. 1 from Athens.
Virtuoso specializes in luxury travel, making the agency group an “ideal partner,” said A&K Travel Group CEO Cristina Levis.
“The reputation Virtuoso member agencies have for outstanding dedication to their clients is a perfect fit with our own bespoke approach to service, and we are honored to have the opportunity to collaborate with their advisors and look forward to a long-term relationship.”
Virtuoso senior vice president of sales and partnerships Cory Hagopian said Virtuoso “looks forward to being an integral part of Crystal’s relaunch strategy as they bring back the world-class experiences and offerings that loyal Crystal enthusiasts — from our advisors to their clients — know and love about the brand.”
Virtuoso is the second travel agency group to name the new Crystal as a preferred partner. Signature Travel Network announced a partnership with Crystal on March 24.