Crystal has launched the first-ever Casino de Monte-Carlo at sea aboard Crystal Symphony during a special ribbon-cutting ceremony on the first night of the Chairmen’s Cruise in Venice, Italy.
The arrival of the new casino follows the announcement in June of an exclusive collaboration with Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (SBM), a leader in entertainment, hospitality and gaming.
In addition to launching on Crystal Symphony, the upscale casino will soon be unveiled on Crystal Serenity, when she departs from Fort Lauderdale on 18 December. The brand’s elevated gaming offerings will also be available on all future ocean-going vessels, excluding the brands mooted expedition ships.
“We could not be prouder to unveil the first-ever Casino de Monte-Carlo at sea aboard Crystal Symphony this week,” said Manfredi Lefebvre, Executive Chairman of A&K Travel Group.
Subscribe to LATTE Cruise’s free eNewsletter to keep up to date with everything in the luxury cruise space.“There was no better choice for a gaming partner than Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, founded more than 160 years ago and remains a global leader in the casino industry. I’ve known the team for many years, and, like Crystal, they are fully committed to delivering upscale experiences that cater to the discerning tastes of travellers from around the world. The future is bright for both of our brands”.
The new casino is positioned where the Bridge Lounges were once located on each ship. Casino de Monte-Carlo offers guests gaming options at sea, including slot machines, Blackjack, American Roulette and Ultimate Texas Hold’em.
The casino features 29 slot machines and three live tables on Crystal Symphony; while Crystal Serenity will have 32 slot machines and three live tables. SBM led the design of the new casinos to mimic the look of the original Le Casino de Monte Carlo. Additionally, guests will have access to Crystal’s premium beverage offerings, including specialty cocktails and a collection of global wines serviced by Avenue Saloon.
“It is a huge pleasure to inaugurate the first Casino de Monte-Carlo ever outside the Principality of Monaco, on Crystal Symphony, and I am very grateful to Crystal for making this dream come true,” said Stéphane Valeri, Chairman and CEO of Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer.
“I am truly convinced that the ultimate cruise experience designed by Crystal combined with the Monte-Carlo expertise in gaming will strengthen our brands while creating unique moments.”
Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group added, “After learning how much our guests missed having gaming options onboard, we knew we could maintain the essence of the previous Crystal casino experience while infusing fresh elements into our brand and finding a partner that would ultimately exceed expectations.
“We are so proud of what we have accomplished in collaboration with Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer.
Like Crystal, the Casino de Monte-Carlo embodies sophistication and attention to detail, and we can’t wait to hear feedback from our guests who have been awaiting this next phase of our journey.”Lead image: Manfredi Lefebvre (right), Executive Chairman of A&K Travel Group with Geoffrey Kent, Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Abercrombie & Kent.
