Genting to buy Crystal Cruises and finance new ship

Crystal Serenity

Genting Hong Kong has agreed to acquire Crystal Cruises from NYK Line for $550 million in cash, and the buyer said that a third ship is in the works for the two-ship line. 

Crystal’s previous newbuild was the Crystal Serenity, delivered in 2003.

Genting’s CEO, Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay, said that Crystal’s current management and crew will remain.

“Genting will provide financial resources and proven expertise in innovative ship design to build a new ship that will set the highest standard in luxury cruise ships,” said Star Cruises’ CEO.

Genting is the parent of the largest cruise line in Asia. It also owns a piece of Norwegian Cruise Line. The Crystal acquisition is due to close in the second quarter.

Crystal President Edie Rodriguez said, “After 25 successful years with NYK, we are excited to have Genting Hong Kong as the new owner of Crystal Cruises. The proposed expansion of our fleet will present our loyal Crystal Society members and new luxury cruise guests with more itinerary options, accommodation choices and exceptional vacation experiences.”

Japanese shipping company NYK Line has owned Crystal since the brand was created in 1988. Crystal operates the 922‐passenger Crystal Symphony (launched in 1995) and the 1,070‐passenger Crystal Serenity (launched in 2003).