A&K Travel Group has appointed Jack Anderson as president of Crystal Cruises and announced “extensive refurbishments” are planned for both Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity.

Anderson’s return to the line he was president of when it ceased operations was confirmed as A&K Travel Group co-chairman Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio; A&K Travel Group chief executive Cristina Levis, and Fincantieri shipbuilding executives welcomed Symphony and Serenity to Trieste, where they will be refurbished.

“Geoffrey Kent and Manfredi Lefebvre are icons and innovators in luxury travel,” said Anderson, who first became president of Crystal Cruises in October 2020.

“With their ownership, leadership and vision for these ships and the award-winning Crystal Cruises brand, we are embarking on a new and exciting chapter. We and the entire Crystal Cruises family look forward to welcoming guests again soon.”

Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity are scheduled to return to service for their new owners next year and Levis suggested the ships’ capacities might be reduced.

Levis said: “There are extensive refurbishments planned for both Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity that will elevate the customer experience.

“Some staterooms will be combined, creating more butler suites and reducing overall guest capacity.”

Meanwhile, Bernie Leypold, who like Anderson was also part of Crystal’s leadership team when it suspended operations, has been named senior vice-president of hotel operations.

He said: “It is an honour to join the new Crystal Cruises with a commitment to not only recreate, but enhance the sophisticated luxury service, cuisine, entertainment, and shore experiences in collaboration with our sister company, Abercrombie & Kent.”

A&K Travel Group said Crystal Cruises’ website would soon provide further updates on appointments, ship enhancements, new itineraries and employment opportunities.