Crystal Cruises Acquired By A&K Travel Group
Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony have found new owners.
Crystal Serenity sailing out from the Singapore Cruise Centre. PHOTO: SINGAPORE CRUISE SOCIETY
Following news of the sale of Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, the ships’ new owner has also been revealed. With a total price tag of $128 Million, the two ships have been acquired by A&K Travel Group, owned by Geoffrey Kent and Heritage Group and chaired by Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio - the chairman and former owner of Silversea Cruises.
Crystal Cruises Will Sail On.
Along with the ships, A&K has also acquired the Crystal Cruises brand, and plans to return the Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony to service under the Crystal Cruises brand. According to a press release by A&K Travel Group, the company expects the ships to return to the seas in 2023, following an extensive refurbishment. A&K Travel Group will also be working alongside V.Ships Leisure to manage the ships.
Tied To The Cruise Industry
For a man whose family built some of the first purpose-built cruise ships more than 30 years ago, Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio has strong ties to the cruise industry.
"I am thrilled to start this new chapter and to be back in an industry that has always had, and always will have a special place in my heart. Thirty-five years ago, my family acquired control of Sitmar Cruises, building three of the first purpose-built cruise ships, and 30 years ago my family pioneered a new way of cruising. Our goal was to deliver the best experience, pampering guests from all over the world with around-the-clock butler service and extraordinary culinary experiences. Selling the cruise business that belonged to my family for a quarter of a century was a difficult decision, as I knew I would miss this industry immensely. Therefore, when the opportunity arose to acquire Crystal Cruises, I did not think about it twice. Having next to me my incredible friend and inspiring leader Geoffrey Kent makes this venture even more enjoyable," said Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio.
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