Crystal Cruises set a new single-day record for bookings with the launch last week of its new cruises in The Bahamas. 

The company said almost 4,000 guests reserved staterooms or suites for one of its new seven-night voyages that cruise from either Nassau or Bimini, with more than 25 percent of all 16 voyages already booked. 

Another 200 travelers booked back-to-back voyage, with some planning to spend 42 days on the company’s Crystal Serenity flagship, Crystal said in a statement. 

“We are thrilled by the wonderful response to these new sailings. It’s clear that travelers have

been eagerly looking forward to exploring again and are as excited to see Crystal Serenity return to

sailing as we are,” said Jack Anderson, Crystal’s interim president and CEO. “We are incredibly grateful

to our loyal Crystal guests and our valued travel partners for their support as we begin to emerge from

what has been an unprecedented year for everyone.”

With U.S. ports still closed for cruising, Crystal is set to homeport in The Bahamas for the first time. 

“After a year of uncertainty, our new Luxury Bahamas Escapes mark an

important return to service for Crystal, but also a significant step forward for travel and tourism overall

in the Americas,” Anderson said. “The all-Bahamas cruises means there is no risk of border closures, alleviating concerns related to a multiple-country itinerary that may be impacted by differing travel restrictions.”

The cruises will stop at a number of ports in The Bahamas, including Harbour Island, Great Exuma, San Salvador and Long Island. 

All guests must be vaccinated and comply with The Bahamas’ existing entry protocols. 

“All of this is possible thanks to the partnership of The Bahamas’ Ministry of Tourism, Dionisio D’Aguilar, Minister of Tourism and Aviation and Director General Joy Jibrilu,” Anderson said. “The beauty of their country and warm hospitality is enhanced by their exceptional standards of health, safety and quality experiences.”

— CJ