German Chancellor Speaks at Crystal Endeavor Keel-Laying Ceremony

At MV Werften, maritime tradition is taken very seriously. Those at the shipyard celebrating the keel-laying ceremony for Crystal Endeavor were lucky enough to hear German Chancellor Angela Merkel give remarks and the lucky coins were put into place as construction began on one of the most anticipated new luxury cruise ships from Crystal Cruises.

Coin Ceremony Offers Good Luck

German Chancellor Angela Merkel | Photo: Crystal Cruises

Along with Angela Merkel, the keel-laying event featured German Prime Minister Manuela Schwesig, Minister of Economic Affairs Harry Glawe, Genting Hong Kong’s Executive Chairman, CEO Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay and Crystal President and CEO Tom Wolber who, along with hundreds of Crystal employees, witnessed the traditional coin ceremony where coins are placed under the ship’s keel block for good luck.

RELATED: Cutting Steel Commences for Crystal Endeavor

Merkel’s remarks highlighted the importance of industries like shipbuilding for the local economy.

“The keel laying of Crystal Endeavor here in my political hometown of Stralsund marks a special moment for me that is doubly significant,” she said. “Today, the foundation has been laid for this highly sophisticated, state-of-the-art cruise ship. But the ceremony itself, which is taking place in the lively shipyard with the participation of so many employees and trainees, also bodes well for the future of shipbuilding in the Hanseatic City of Stralsund and in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.”

Crystal Endeavor; Not Your Average Cruise Ship

Don’t call it a cruise ship. Crystal Endeavor is a luxury expedition yacht will be 164 meters long with a 20,000 gross tonnage for only 200 passengers. That is the highest space ratio for any luxury expedition ship sailing today.  All suites feature king-size beds, ambient lighting, walk-in closets, separate wet unit with rain showers and toilet and large private balconies.

With six gourmet restaurants, a luxurious spa and fitness area and a two-story enclosed rear sun deck featuring a pool with panoramic views, it’s no surprise why excitement and anticipation grow with every announcement from the Crystal Cruises team. In addition, Crystal Endeavor is equipped with state-of-the-art navigation technology, the ship’s own mini-submarines, helicopters, and Zodiacs rafts.

Rendering of Crystal Endeavor | Photo Crystal Cruises

Crystal Cruises President Tom Wolber offered his thoughts on what the new ship would bring to the cruising experience.

“It is truly a thrill to mark this important milestone for Crystal Endeavor and the entire Crystal Family, as this yacht will change the way guests can explore the world both adventurously and luxuriously,” he said.

Crystal Endeavor is expected to launch in late 2019 or early 2020.