Luxury American cruise line company Crystal Cruises announced it is re-routing ships away from both Istanbul and Kusadasi in Turkey in response to “ongoing security concerns.”
The line is replacing the Turkish ports with destinations in Greece for sailings of its 922-passenger Crystal Symphony and Crystal Esprit voyages.
Crystal’s move followed unrest in Turkey, including a suicide bomber who killed 10 in a busy Istanbul tourist area last week.
“The safety and peace of mind of our guests are our primary concerns, and we do not take any risks with either,” said Crystal CEO & President, Edie Rodriguez. “The itinerary changes will allow our guests to continue with their planned vacations in the same standard of excellence.”
Crystal will substitute Turkey with the Greek ports of Souda Bay/Chania and Hydra, and overnights in both Nafplion and Athens. The company’s other itineraries will substitute the Turkish ports with an overnight in Athens and visits to Patmos and Rhodes, Greece.
