Crystal Cruises Owed Over $100 Million, Said CEO in 2022 Genting had abandoned Crystal Cruises, leaving it to deal with the fallout of unpaid deposits, outstanding fuel bills, and crew members awaiting repatriation.

The "problem" most associated with Crystal Cruises refers to its financial collapse and bankruptcy in early 2022 under its previous parent company, Genting Hong Kong. This resulted in a traumatic period where ships were diverted to avoid seizure by creditors, and thousands of passengers were left with unpaid refunds and cancelled dream vacations. However, in 2026, the brand has been completely "reborn" under the ownership of the A&K Travel Group (Abercrombie & Kent). While the "new" Crystal has successfully refurbished the Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, some loyalists still express concerns regarding the smaller fleet size compared to the "old days" and the higher price points associated with the brand's shift toward ultra-luxury. There are also ongoing logistical hurdles regarding the recovery of "legacy" credits from the pre-2022 bankruptcy, which the new owners are not legally responsible for, leading to some lingering brand friction. Overall, the current "problem" is simply the challenge of rebuilding trust after a high-profile corporate failure.