Crystal Cruises recently announced the launch of the first-ever Casino de Monte-Carlo at sea aboard the Crystal Symphony cruise ship. This marks a significant milestone in the world of luxury cruising, bringing the glamour and excitement of the iconic Monte-Carlo Casino to the high seas. The casino features a spacious gaming area of over 1,000 square feet, equipped with 29 slot machines and three live dealer table games, including blackjack, American roulette, and Ultimate Texas Hold’em.
The Casino de Monte-Carlo is the result of a branding deal between Crystal Cruises and Société des Bains de Mer, a renowned gaming company based in Monaco. This partnership allows Crystal Cruises to use the prestigious Monte-Carlo Casino brand for its gaming operations on the Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity vessels. The Monte-Carlo Casino aboard the Crystal Symphony set sail from Venice, Italy, on its maiden voyage, offering guests a unique and luxurious gaming experience against the backdrop of the stunning Adriatic Sea.
The acquisition of Crystal Cruises by Italian billionaire Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio and his private equity firm, Heritage Group, has brought new life to the cruise line. The vessels, Symphony and Serenity, underwent extensive renovations to enhance the onboard experience for guests. All suites and staterooms were upgraded, and new wellness offerings were introduced to cater to the needs of modern travelers. The modernization of the casinos on board aligns perfectly with the opulent Monte-Carlo brand, providing guests with a sophisticated and upscale gaming environment.
Manfredi Lefebvre expressed his pride in unveiling the Casino de Monte-Carlo aboard the Crystal Symphony, highlighting the rich history and global reputation of the Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer. The partnership between Crystal Cruises and Monte-Carlo ensures that guests can enjoy a world-class gaming experience while sailing the seas in ultimate luxury. The Casino de Monte-Carlo on the Crystal Serenity is set to make its debut voyage in December, offering an even larger gaming area with 32 slot machines and three table games.
With strong ties to Monaco, Lefebvre’s legacy in the cruise industry dates back to his father’s cruise line, Silversea Cruises. Following the sale of Silversea to Royal Caribbean Group, Lefebvre continues to reside in Monte Carlo, where he frequents the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo property. The government of Monaco holds a majority stake in the historic casino, which has been a symbol of luxury and elegance since its opening in 1865.
Overall, the introduction of the Casino de Monte-Carlo aboard the Crystal Symphony represents a significant milestone in the world of luxury cruising. Guests can now enjoy the thrill of Monte-Carlo’s legendary casino while experiencing the unparalleled service and sophistication of Crystal Cruises. The partnership between Crystal Cruises and Société des Bains de Mer brings together two iconic brands to create a truly unforgettable gaming experience at sea.