MIAMI — Jack Anderson is still at the helm of Crystal Cruises and he’s announcing the appointment of Matias Lira as Senior Vice President, Global Sales & Guest Services.

Lira has an extensive career in the cruise industry, most recently with Silversea Cruises as VP Passenger Services and Customer Sales. Before his eight years with Silversea Lira spent four years with NCL.

“Matias Lira is a luxury cruise industry leader with expertise in developing relationships in global sales channels including trade, charters, and meeting and incentive groups,” says Anderson. “He appreciates the incredible value of travel advisors and will build strong relationships, working with reservations and sales support to keep the focus on guest satisfaction.”

Says Lira: “I have long admired the innovative leadership and vision of Geoffrey Kent and Manfredi Lefebvre. Under their ownership, Crystal Cruises is beginning a new and very exciting chapter. I am personally committed to rebuilding the travel partner relationships that made Crystal an industry leader and a favourite of guests and travel advisors alike with best in industry support.”

After a tumultuous end under its former owners, Crystal Cruises is on its way back. In June 2022 A&K Travel Group announced it had purchased not just the two former Crystal ships but the company too, with an eye to bringing back the legendary luxury cruise brand. A&K Travel Group includes Abercrombie & Kent, and is in turn owned by Heritage Group, headed up by Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, who used to head up Silversea. That cruise line was founded by Lefebvre’s father in 1994.

Anderson, still President of Crystal Cruises under its new owners, says updates are coming soon about further appointments, ship enhancements and new itineraries.