The Nat-Geo-Islander-2: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

In a dramatic maritime rescue operation, 12 French nationals were saved on February 19, 2017, thanks to a synergistic response from the Seychelles Coast Guard and the cruise ship 'Crystal Esprit'. The alert came in the eerie hours of February 17, when the crew of the 'Crystal Esprit' notified the Coast Guard about the perilous situation of the catamaran 'El Diablo', which had succumbed to severe weather conditions near Praslin. On board the 'El Diablo' were three children and nine adults, all trapped as their vessel was forcefully pulled from its mooring buoy and ran aground. The intense and tumultuous weather inflicted extensive damage on the catamaran, leading to its abandonment. Swiftly, the Coast Guard mobilized vessels to the scene, coordinating efforts with the 'Crystal Esprit' crew amidst darkness and heavy rainfall to execute the rescue mission effectively. Regrettably, the 'El Diablo' ultimately sank, prompting its owner to initiate arrangements for the vessel's removal. Following the successful rescue, 'Crystal Esprit' continued its journey to Aride, the northernmost of the granitic islands in the Seychelles archipelago in the western Indian Ocean, on February 18. The fortunate former passengers of the catamaran were safely transferred to Praslin. For more on this remarkable rescue, visit: https://www.cruiseindustrynews.com/cruise-news/16427-crystal-esprit-performs-seychelles-rescue.html

In a significant shift for the luxury cruise sector, Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises has announced that the Crystal Esprit, a refined 62-passenger yacht, will not return to the Seychelles for a third season in 2017 or head to the Adriatic in 2018. Instead, this exquisite vessel will make a splash in the Caribbean, commencing year-round operations in November 2017. Starting late 2017 and extending throughout 2018, the Crystal Esprit will embark from Marigot Bay in St. Martin, offering two distinct itineraries. The 'Yachting Escape' route will whisk guests away to stunning locales such as Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda, and Tortola, while the 'Yachting Explorer' itinerary promises adventures in Anguilla, Saba, and Nevis, among other captivating destinations. Since its inaugural season in late 2015, Crystal Esprit has delighted travelers with winter sailings in the Seychelles, set in the picturesque Indian Ocean, and summer voyages through the enchanting Adriatic, traversing iconic ports like Athens, Venice, and Dubrovnik.

The unveiling of the CRYSTAL ESPIRIT signifies the beginning of an ambitious expansion for Crystal Cruises. On December 20, 2015, the luxury yacht was officially christened at Eden Island Marina in Mahé, Seychelles. This momentous event was graced by Crystal Cruises executives and distinguished guests, where Lady Gaenor Anne Meakes, the yacht’s Godmother and fiancée of the famed yachtsman Mark Richards, performed the ceremonial launch by smashing a bottle of Louis Roederer Crystal Brut 2004 against the ship’s bow. The CRYSTAL ESPIRIT, boasting a capacity for 62 guests and a gross tonnage of 3,370, is equipped with remarkable features including a two-passenger submarine, four zodiacs, and a 12-guest tender for luxurious expedition experiences.