In a sign that luxury cruise lines might be the next place to find discounted cruise vacations, Crystal Cruises announced in September a major revamping of its price structure for 2010. The major change is that all cruises will offer two-for-one fares for all destinations.
This change makes the luxury cruise line more affordable than comparable lines offering a lower class of service. In addition, Crystal Cruises will offer spending credits for onboard purchases of up to $2,000 per couple, plus amazing airline ticket specials including free airfare (economy for North American destinations or business class for European destinations). People taking European cruises will also receive a sweet hotel suite deal: a free stay at a penthouse in a top hotel.
“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 Crystal Cruises senior vice president Bill Smith.