Crystal Esprit Christened & Ready To Set Sail

Crystal Cruises officially welcomed Crystal Esprit to its fleet of ultra-luxury vessels Sunday, as the sleek yacht was christened in an elegant ceremony held at Eden Island Marina in Mahe, Victoria, Seychelles. Crystal's president and CEO, Edie Rodriguez, welcomed a distinguished audience of local dignitaries, yacht guests, travel partners and professionals, and executives from the line's new parent company, Genting Hong Kong (GHK), for a day of celebration, as Crystal Esprit marks the beginning of one of the most significant brand expansions in luxury travel and hospitality history.

On hand to christen Crystal Esprit was the yacht's godmother, Lady Gaenor Anne Meakes, fiance of Mark Richards, one of the world's most awarded and recognized yachtsmen. Richards serves as chief executive of Grand Banks yachts, based in Australia, and is an eight-time champion skipper of the 628-mile Sydney-to-Hobart yacht race. Lady Meakes christened the yacht with the traditional breaking of Champagne against the hull—specifically a bottle of Louis Roederer, Cristal Brut, 2004. The evening culminated with an elaborate fireworks display at sea.

"To say today is a special day is an understatement," said Rodriguez. "Since joining Crystal just over two years ago, a personal goal of mine has been to see Crystal realize the next step in continuing to pioneer luxury travel and hospitality; and today I am seeing that dream fulfilled."

Whether guests are seeking underwater adventures, high-speed adrenaline-inducing experiences or physically challenging and athletic pursuits, they need look no further than Crystal Esprit’s retractable marina. Tucked sleekly inside this extravagant yacht is an arsenal of water toys, beckoning Crystal guests—discerning travelers who seek unexpected, uncommon and truly memorable experiences—to come and play.

Water skis, a wakeboard, two types of ocean kayaks (tandem or solo-paddle); Skidoo jet skis, two 10-person zodiacs, contained in-ocean pool…plus, fishing and snorkel equipment at the ready—all for complimentary use on a first come, first served basis. Additionally, a 12-passenger Wider 32-foot super yacht tender will take guests on special boating adventures.

For those with deep pockets who are ready to dive deeper, literally, a C Explorer U Boat Submarine will be available for subaquatic quests. Offering approximately 30-minute expeditions for $599 per person, the sub seats two guests and the vessel’s operator, creating an especially exclusive atmosphere.

Images Courtesy Crystal Cruises