Crystal has become the latest cruise line to alter a number of sailings in the Red Sea due to the ongoing tensions in the area

The line has cancelled a sailing from Mumbai to Piraeus from 27 March to 13 April on board Crystal Symphony and re-routed several segments of its 2024 World Cruise on Crystal Serenity to avoid the area.

The change will not affect the overall voyage length and the ship will arrive in Miami as originally scheduled on 8 June 2024.

“In light of the current situation in the Red Sea, Crystal remains committed to prioritising the safety and well-being of our guests and crew,” a Crystal spokesperson said.

“Due to the ongoing situation, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the 2024 Cruise from Mumbai to Piraeus (Athens) on Crystal Symphony from 27 March to 13 April.”

The line is currently in the process of notifying all impacted guests on board both ships. “We greatly appreciate our guests and crew for their understanding and patience during this process,” the spokesperson added.

Crystal joins Carnival and MSC in altering Red Sea itineraries

Last month, Carnival Corporation was forced to alter the routes of 12 vessels across seven of its brands due to escalating tensions in the Red Sea.

The ships were slated to transit the region through May 2024. The company, which owns Carnival Cruise Line, P&O Cruises, Costa Cruises, Holland America Line, Aida Cruises, Cunard, Seabourn and Princess Cruises, said the alterations are expected to impact its Q2 financial results.

Prior to that, MSC Cruises cancelled three repositioning voyages in April from South Africa and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Europe because of the risk to shipping in the region.