MIAMI, Florida – 28 May 2026 – Crystal has marked the start of construction on its newest ocean ship, Crystal Grace, following a ceremonial steel cutting at the Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Italy, according to the official press release.
The milestone confirms that work has formally begun on the vessel, which is scheduled for delivery in May 2028. Crystal Grace is being developed as the brand’s next ocean ship and is positioned as part of Crystal’s continued fleet development under AKTG, Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group.
Construction Begins at Fincantieri’s Marghera Yard
The steel cutting ceremony took place at Fincantieri’s Marghera facility in Italy, marking the first major construction step for Crystal Grace. In shipbuilding, steel cutting represents the beginning of the physical build process, as the first sections of steel are prepared for the new vessel.
Crystal said the event reflects the next phase in the development of its ocean fleet, with Crystal Grace designed to combine the brand’s established service approach with new design and guest experience elements.
“As we look to the future, we are focused on creating ships that feel both deeply rooted in Crystal’s heritage and unmistakably modern, where space, service and experience come together in a way that is both intuitive and extraordinary. Crystal Grace will do that for the brand, and we are so proud that this moment with our partners at Fincantieri brings that vision one step closer to reality.”
Cristina Levis, CEO of AKTG, said the ship is intended to reflect both Crystal’s heritage and its future direction. The company has positioned Crystal Grace as a next-generation ocean vessel within its luxury cruise offering.
Fincantieri Partnership Continues
The start of construction also continues Crystal’s relationship with Fincantieri, the Italian shipbuilder involved in bringing the new vessel to delivery. The company described the partnership as part of the process of developing Crystal Grace through shipbuilding craftsmanship, precision and innovation.
Luigi Matarazzo, General Manager of Merchant Ships Division at Fincantieri, stated, “The steel cutting of Crystal Grace is a moment of great pride for our team and a significant milestone in our relationship with Crystal and the Lefebvre family. Over the years, we have built a partnership grounded in trust, shared values and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
We are honored to once again bring Crystal’s vision to life, shaping a vessel that reflects both the brand’s distinguished heritage and its exciting future.”
Crystal Grace is expected to enter service after delivery in May 2028. The ship will then join Crystal’s ocean fleet as a newbuild addition designed for luxury cruising.
Onboard Features Planned for Crystal Grace
Once delivered, Crystal Grace will offer a range of guest facilities and accommodation categories. Crystal said the ship will include expansive suites, among them the brand’s first-ever Owner’s suite.
The vessel will also feature culinary concepts involving recognised partners. These include Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, three-time Michelin-starred Massimiliano Alajmo and his brother Raffaele, as well as restaurateur Riccardo Girardi.
Entertainment is also part of the ship’s planned onboard offering, with Broadway-style productions listed among the vessel’s features. Crystal also said Crystal Grace will provide one of the best staff-to-guest and space-to-guest ratios in the luxury segment.
The ship’s itineraries are being developed to connect guests more closely with destinations, in line with the brand’s stated approach to experience-led travel.
Maiden Voyage Scheduled for June 2028
Crystal Grace is scheduled to begin its inaugural voyage on June 11, 2028. The first sailing will depart from Civitavecchia, the port for Rome, and will run for eight nights before concluding in Fusina, the port for Venice.
The inaugural voyage will mark the ship’s first scheduled cruise following its planned delivery in May 2028.
Crystal’s Fleet Development
Crystal has operated in the luxury cruise sector for more than three decades. In 2022, AKTG acquired the Crystal brand and its two vessels, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony. The two ships subsequently underwent a $170 million refurbishment.
Crystal’s current offering includes ocean voyages with shore and onboard experiences linked to its partnership with Abercrombie & Kent. Its ships include updated suites, dining venues and entertainment programming.
The brand’s onboard dining includes Umi Uma®, by chef Nobu Matsuhisa, Beefbar at sea through a collaboration with Riccardo Giraudi, and an Osteria d’Ovidio menu created with Massimiliano and Raffaele Alajmo. Crystal also features the first Casino de Monte-Carlo at sea through a partnership with Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer.
Crystal Grace will become the latest addition to this fleet when it enters service in 2028.
Source: Official Crystal Cruises Press Center release, 28 May 2026, Miami.
