It’s hard to believe that just a couple short years ago, Crystal Cruises was a static, two-ship operation. Now, with a dynamic new management team and the infusion of funding from new parent company Genting Hong Kong, Crystal is enjoying unprecedented growth. Today, the line has just announced a dazzling new luxury yacht for its Crystal Yacht Cruises division.

To be named for James Cook’s HMS ENDEAVOUR, the new 600-foot, Polar Class megayacht CRYSTAL ENDEAVOR will measure 25,000-gt and carry just 200 guests and a crew of 200. The ship will be built by the Lloyd Werft Group, a collection of four Genting-owned shipyards in Bremerhaven, Germany, with steel cutting to begin in May 2016 and delivery scheduled for August 2018.

Taking a cue from Crystal Yacht Cruises first ship, the refurbished, 62-guest CRYSTAL ESPIRIT (currently in service in the Seychelles and fitted with its own submarine), the CRYSTAL ENDEAVOR will boast two helicopters and two landing pads for flightseeing expeditions, two 7-person submarines and eight electric amphibious zodiacs as well as SEABOBs – the world’s most technically advanced and powerful underwater scooter.  She will also have an ROV (remote operated vehicle) that will take guests to the ocean’s depths to explore wrecks.

Public areas will include Crystal’s signature Palm Court (with 270-degree panoramic views); a 10,000-square-foot combined Spa and Conservatory space; an infinity pool with a base can be raised to become a dance floor or an alfresco dining area; six dining options; a 200-seat theatre; numerous lecture rooms; a cinema; card room and a computer center.

The CRYSTAL ENDEAVOR will be the first purpose-built Polar Code compliant yacht with a PC6 Polar Class designation, allowing her to cruise in polar regions during the summer and autumn. Dynamic positioning technology will enable her to float atop coral reefs and other underwater wonders without utilizing potentially reef-damaging anchors.

Standard suites will measure 400-square-feet (including balcony) and the two Owner Suites will measure 3,122-square-feet (1,615-square-foot interior and 1,570-square-foot balcony), making them the largest guest suites of any megayacht afloat.  Owner Suites will have a master bedroom and two guest bedrooms, indoor and outdoor living areas, private conservatory, garden and outdoor Jacuzzi, private spa and gym outfitted with sauna, steam room and treatment room.