MIAMI — Crystal Cruises will be the first ocean-going cruise line to restart cruises in the Americas, with news announced yesterday about new all-Bahamian 7-night cruise itineraries onboard Crystal Serenity, starting July 3, 2021.

Crystal Cruises’ interim CEO Jack Anderson said sales for the new cruises will open on March 18.

The “100% Bahamian itineraries” will operate July 3 through October 2021, said Anderson, adding, “this is an exciting day for cruising.”

The week-long cruises will depart from Nassau or Bimini. Ports of call include Harbour Island, San Salvador, Long Island and Great Exuma.

Capacity onboard Crystal Serenity will be capped at 900 passengers.

Itineraries for Crystal Serenity’s 2021 Bahamas cruises

Last month Crystal became the latest cruise line to announce required proof of vaccination for all passengers once operations resume.

The cruise line is requiring all guests to be fully inoculated with a COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days prior to their Crystal cruise. Guests will need to provide proof of vaccination before embarkation and must have received both doses of the vaccine if recommended by the manufacturer by that timeline.

In addition, passengers must also complete an online form acknowledging this requirement before their cruise tickets will be issued. An FAQ document on the advisory alert section of Crystal’s website has been published for more details.

Joining Anderson via virtual link for the announcement, Dionisio D’Aguilar, Minister of Tourism & Aviation for The Commonwealth of The Bahamas, said The Bahamas “is thrilled to welcome back cruise passengers after a one-year hiatus.”

Dionisio D’Aguilar, Minister of Tourism & Aviation for The Commonwealth of The Bahamas, at the March 11, 2021 announcement

D’Aguilar said: “This is a milestone achievement. After a year of despair and doubt, we will remember this moment.”

Passengers can add pre- and post-stays in The Bahamas, he added.

D’Aguilar noted that in addition to Crystal’s vaccination requirement, visitors to the Bahamas need proof of a negative PCR test taken no more than 5 days in advance of arrival. Passengers will also need a Bahamas travel health visa.

“We are delighted with this partnership,” said D’Aguilar.