Crystal Cruises Revamps Pricing and Promotions for 2010

Crystal Cruises has revamped its 2010 pricing and promotions with extended value-added features. The luxury cruise specialist is now offering:

• Two-for-one fares for all destinations
• All Inclusive – As You Wish spending credits for all destinations – up to US$2,000 per couple
• Free round-trip air with most cruises
• Business class air for Penthouse categories in Europe
• Price Guarantee

More than 2,000 consumers and travel agents were recently researched by the Harrison Group and Dialogue. The research revealed that even the most high-end cruise travelers respond to some savings messages over others. Based on the findings, virtually all of Crystal’s 2010 cruises have been re-priced to offer guests bigger savings, convenience, and greater value for its worldwide sailings.

“The scope of changes we’ve made is unprecedented as we literally have to reproduce every piece of collateral we’ve had in the marketplace,” said Bill Smith, senior vice president of Crystal Cruises. “However, our research validated that consumers respond to the value of the ‘two-for-one’ more than any other discount messages. The benefits for discerning travelers are extraordinary – especially when one considers the new promotions are combined with all of the inherent value, luxury and comfort of the award-winning Crystal experience. Additionally, we have an incredible pattern of itineraries for 2010 – with fascinating destinations like Sydney, Stockholm and even Saudi Arabia.”

2-for-1 Cruise Fares

Crystal’s recent consumer travel research confirmed that travelers are most attracted to the “two-for-one” pricing message. More than twice as many responded to two-for one pricing than 50% off or even greater savings messages. With this in mind, all Crystal cruises – in every category – boast two-for-one pricing, and, for most destinations, fares are lower than previously published.

All Inclusive

Consumer research also indicated that luxury travelers appreciate the luxury of choice and Crystal’s spending credits, which offer a customized all-inclusive experience. All 2010 cruises will offer ‘All Inclusive – As You Wish’ shipboard spending credits of either US$500 or US$1,000 per person, including every segment of the World Cruise. Guests can use these credits toward just about any conceivable shipboard purchase, including any custom Private Adventures, any spa treatment, personal training, one-on-one golf instruction, boutique purchases, rare wines, and/or Vintage Room experiences.

Brand New Free Air Program

With few exceptions, Crystal is offering free economy air transportation from more than 20 North American gateways for cruises through Australia/New Zealand, Mediterranean, Baltic, and New England/Canada. New fares also include round-trip Business Class air transportation to Europe for guests in Penthouse accommodations. Research reflected consumers’ strong response to the free air value equation. Even Crystal’s World Cruise, which is endowed with hundreds of enrichment opportunities and special events, will enjoy a new air bonus for any two back-to-back segments. As always, Crystal includes round-trip airport/ship transfers with all of its air/sea programs. Guests can opt to deduct a credit for cruise-only fares.

Price Guarantee

Research confirmed that Crystal Cruises’ Price Guarantee resonates more than ever with travelers who feel they might be penalized for booking early. For 2010, Crystal Cruises will retain its Crystal Assurance Plan (CAP), which means that guests are assured they will get Crystal’s lowest published fares, even if the line reduces fares. With the new 2010 fares, Crystal guests will enjoy lower air/sea and cruise-only fares for just about all of Crystal’s 2010 cruises.

Birthday Bonus

In celebration of Crystal’s 20th anniversary in 2010, the line is retaining its Birthday Bonus promotion. If travelers book by December 31, 2009 and sail on their birthday in 2010, they can save 50% off a second cruise-only fare taken before their 2011 birthday. In addition, birthday guests can celebrate their 2010 birthday with a special champagne breakfast and a Captain’s Quarters birthday party, as well as enjoy the pampering Crystal experience.

Crystal Family Memories

Another program in place for all 2010 cruises is Crystal Family Memories, which supports the huge trend for reunions and multi-generational travel. For as few as six full-fare guests traveling together (three staterooms!), guests will enjoy pre-paid gratuities, US$100 per person, shipboard credit, in addition to the All Inclusive-As You Wish spending credit, a group family photo, kids under 17 sail free in a third berth and a US$500 credit toward a Crystal Private Adventure. For 10 full-fare guests, the group will get all of the above plus free cruise berth (no air).

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