MIAMI, Florida – 7 July 2026 – Crystal has retained its position as the No. 1 Midsize-Ship Ocean Cruise Line in Travel + Leisure’s 2026 World’s Best Awards readers’ survey. According to the official press release, the result marks the second consecutive year that the cruise line has secured the distinction.
Crystal said it has held the top spot in the category for nearly 30 years, since the World’s Best Awards were introduced in 1995. The complete 2026 awards list is scheduled to appear in the August 2026 issue of Travel + Leisure and on the publication’s website.
The annual reader survey evaluates cruise lines across areas including cabins and onboard facilities, dining, service, itineraries and destinations, shore experiences and overall value.
Second consecutive award follows 2023 relaunch
The latest recognition follows Crystal’s relaunch under A&K Travel Group in 2023. The group acquired the Crystal brand and its two ocean ships, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, in 2022.
Both ships subsequently underwent extensive refurbishment, including redesigned and enlarged suites, enhanced wellness facilities at Aurōra Spa, world-class entertainment and Broadway-standard shows.
“To be recognized by Travel + Leisure readers as the world’s best for a second consecutive year is an extraordinary honor and a testament to the passion, dedication and commitment of our exceptional crew and shoreside teams. Everything we do begins with our guests, and this award reflects the trust they place in Crystal to deliver truly unforgettable experiences.
“As we continue to invest in the future of the brand, including the arrival of Crystal Grace in 2028, we remain focused on offering the most exceptional travel at sea while staying true to the warmth, service and sophistication that define us,” said Cristina Levis, CEO of AKTG.
Refurbished ships feature expanded onboard offering
Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony returned to service with expanded accommodation and updates across their dining, leisure, wellness and entertainment facilities.
The ships feature Casino de Monte-Carlo gaming experiences through Crystal’s partnership with Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer. Their restaurant offering includes Umi Uma by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, Beefbar and Osteria d’Ovidio.
Crystal also introduced enhanced facilities at Aurōra Spa, together with updated entertainment programming. The company said the refurbishment of the two vessels represented an investment of $170 million.
“This recognition belongs to every member of the Crystal family,” added Bernie Leypold, SVP Hotel Operations for Crystal. “What sets us apart is the genuine connection between our crew and our guests. That sense of belonging, combined with an unwavering commitment to excellence, creates an experience unlike any other. Receiving this award for a second year in a row confirms that our vision is resonating with travelers around the world.”
Crystal Grace scheduled to debut in 2028
The award comes as Crystal prepares to introduce Crystal Grace in 2028. The vessel will be the company’s first new ocean ship in more than 20 years.
Crystal Grace is planned with new accommodation options, expanded dining concepts and redesigned public spaces. The company did not provide further construction, capacity or deployment details in the award announcement.
The new ship will expand Crystal’s ocean fleet beyond Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony as the brand continues its development under A&K Travel Group.
Source: Official Crystal Cruises Press Center release, 7 July 2026, Miami.
