Crystal and local partners will offer a 100% Bahamian experience to guests

Miami – Today, Crystal Cruises announced it has partnered with over 30 local Bahamian operators who will work alongside Crystal to offer a local experience to guests on its Luxury Bahamas Escapes voyages. The voyages will depart from Nassau beginning July 3, 2021, and Bimini starting on July 4, 2021, and will directly contribute to the regional effort of reinvigorating tourism in The Bahamas bringing an influx of much-needed capital into the economy. During its cruise calls in The Bahamas, which have been extended into November, Crystal will continue to work closely and collaboratively with local partners on the islands to ensure all are supported as they prepare for guests to visit The Bahamas.

“The return of cruising in The Bahamas is vital for our tourism economy and we are thrilled to see such partnerships with local businesses continue to grow,” said the Hon. Dionisio D'Aguilar, Bahamas Minister of Tourism & Aviation. “Each experience provides the opportunity to elevate vacation time with immersive and cultural activities, proving first-hand why it’s truly Better in The Bahamas. Guests are in for a treat while both aboard the ship and exploring our pristine shores.”

The local partnerships on the destination islands are varied, offering a range of services and activities that will be integrated into the Luxury Bahamas Escapes itinerary for guests to experience and enjoy. Just a few of the local partners include Big D's Conch Spot, Exuma Water Sports and the Chameleon Management Group. In addition, the company is working with the Ministry of Tourism & Aviation to feature straw markets with local businesses in the Family Islands.

“My team and I are excited to partner with Crystal and move the island forward after a year of economic downturn,” said Daron 'Big D' Tucker, Big D's Conch Spot, which is offering a conch cooking class at this venerable eating institution on Great Exuma. “We hope everyone will stop by to enjoy our waterfront dining and our menu of Bahamian dishes. We bet several cruisers will walk away saying what the locals have known for years – that we’re one of the best beach bars around.”

“My family has been in the Bahamas since 1735 and I’ve been in business for more than 40 years,” said Ray Lightbourn, owner, Exuma Water Sports. “My son and I spend our lives in the water, showing everyone from celebrities to everyday travelers all that the island has to offer. We love showing people our home and look forward to giving Crystal’s guests the adventure of a lifetime.”

To provide guests with a taste of the treasured music and culture that give The Bahamas their singular charm, Crystal will also engage a 15-member Junkanoo band to perform a parade celebration for guests on every Crystal Serenity departure from Nassau, the colorful costumes, dancing and percussive beats of the traditional goat skin drums providing an exuberant sendoff reflecting The Bahamas’ musical pulse and heritage.

“We’re so excited to have the cruises and tourists back on our shores after a difficult season,” said Petra Haven, Managing Director of Chameleon Management Group. “This partnership has provided us with such an amazing experience - to share our treasured Bahamian music and culture through Junkanoo with the guests aboard Crystal Cruises. We can’t wait to see what’s to come!”

A leader in unrivaled luxury cruising for 30 years, Crystal distinguishes its ships and its voyages with fine details and nuances that make a big impact for discerning travelers. Luxury Bahamas Escapes voyages will be hosted aboard Crystal Serenity, one of the smallest vessels in the Crystal fleet, providing a more sustainable and luxury guest experience. The ship will sail in The Bahamas at a reduced capacity, increasing its social spaciousness. All-inclusive experience with award-winning entertainment; diverse enrichment options; globally-inspired dining, including Nobu Matsuhisa’s only seagoing restaurants; unlimited pours of fine wines, beers and premium spirits and an unwavering standard of genuine, personal service for each guest underscores the Crystal difference.