Crystal partners with culinary stars...

Exclusive collaboration will elevate cruise line's Italian fine dining offering

Luxury cruise company Crystal is teaming up with world-renowned Italian culinary duo Massimiliano and Raffaele Alajmo.

Massimiliano is the youngest chef ever to be awarded three Michelin stars, which he has retained for an unprecedented 22 years, working alongside Raffaele, his brother, maître des lieux and co-owner of the family's celebrated portfolio of restaurants.

Better known as Max and Raf, the brothers will elevate the dining experience at both branches of Osteria d’Ovidio on Crystal’s fleet of two ships. The collaboration underscores Crystal's commitment to culinary excellence.

Alajmo will work directly with Crystal’s culinary team to ensure fresh and local ingredients are sourced for all dishes, including specialty items from Italy, and collaborate with Crystal’s award-winning sommeliers to launch speciality wine pairings to accompany the Osteria d’Ovidio menus.

Crystal guests will also have the option to dine at some of Alajmo's renowned restaurants in Italy – Le Calandre in Padua, and Gran Caffè Quadri and Bistro Quadrino in Venice – through sister brand Abercrombie & Kent’s specially curated shore excursions.

"We are incredibly honoured to collaborate with Chef Massimiliano Alajmo and his brother Raffaele,” said A&K Travel Group CEO, Cristina Levis. “Their culinary mastery aligns perfectly with our vision of providing unparalleled dining experiences to our guests.”

Chef Alajmo said: “It is an extraordinary opportunity to bring our passion for Italian cuisine and hospitality to sea with Crystal.

“We believe in creating memorable experiences through food, and our dishes are crafted with the utmost care and dedication. We are excited to share our vision and bring these dishes to life for Crystal's guests dining in Osteria d’Ovidio.”

Crystal boasts the only Nobu at sea, Umi Uma, and recently announced the introduction of Beefbar by Riccardo Giraudi, coming on board later in 2024.

For general reservations, call 8000 6512079 (UAE) or +357 26 205 216 (outside of the UAE), or email sales@luxurycruiseportfolio.com. For travel trade partnerships, contact Head of GCC Sales Daniel Essex on dan@luxurycruiseportfolio.com For more information, visit www.crystalcruises.com

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