Former A-Rosa River Cruises head of sales Stephen Joyner has joined Crystal as its UK and Ireland sales manager

Joyner, who joined A-Rosa in 2019, has also held roles as cruise club manager for The Travel Network Group (TTNG) and strategic account manager for Royal Caribbean.

“I’m thrilled be part of the new era of Crystal, along with the driving force of A&K behind this iconic brand we’ve all come to love,” Joyner told Cruise Trade News.

“I’m very much looking forward to playing my part in the direction of bringing Crystal back as a ‘go to brand’ for our amazing travel partners throughout the UK, Scotland and Ireland to sell to their past ambassadors of the brand but also new clients too. We have got big ambitions, so watch this space.”

Last year, the line relaunched under a new name, Crystal – Exceptional at Sea, heralding in a “new era” for the brand after it was purchased by A&K Travel Group.

Crystal Serenity and Symphony were refurbished with larger suites and the ships now include “artisanal finishes, cutting-edge on-board wellness and world-class dining and entertainment”, the line added.

A-Rosa MD says Joyner was ‘instrumental’ to river line

The line unveiled its 2025 Grand Journeys itineraries, which will see Serenity and Symphony sail a number of extended voyages with prolonged port visits, overnight stops and optional shoreside experiences.

Following their multi-million dollar refurbishment, the reimagined vessels will offer larger, redesigned suites, specialty restaurants and restorative public spaces.

Lucia Rowe, managing director of A-Rosa River Cruises UK & Ireland, said: “Stephen has achieved so much in the last four years. He played an instrumental role in the creation of A-Rosa packages, our trade reservations arm in the UK that pulls together packages by air and rail, and has worked tirelessly with the trade to grow our brand presence, despite the challenges of covid.

“I can’t thank him enough for all his hard work and commitment during his time with A-Rosa and wish him every success as he takes on his next challenge, back in the world of ocean cruising. I have no doubt he will do really well in his new role, and they are very lucky to have him.”

Rowe confirmed the line will announce Joyner’s replacement “as soon we are able” and is recruiting for the role of regional sales manager for the south of the UK.