In a historic first, Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer has launched its storied Casino de Monte-Carlo experience beyond the borders of Monaco, thanks to a landmark partnership with Crystal Cruises.
The legendary Casino de Monte-Carlo name and brand have gone international. The world-famous gaming venue is now earning its sea legs aboard Crystal Cruises’ luxury Crystal Symphony, an elegant and prestigious vessel that boasts one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios in the industry.
This major moment in the timeline of the Monaco icon was celebrated at an extravagant ribbon-cutting ceremony aboard the cruise liner in Venice on 14th November, attended by Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (SBM) Chairman and CEO Stéphane Valeri and Manfredi Lefebvre, the Executive Chairman of A&K Travel Group, which owns Crystal Cruises.
The partnership between SBM and Crystal Cruises will see the Casino de Monte-Carlo expand its reach beyond the Principality for the first time in its nearly 160-year history. SBM opened the illustrious Casino de Monte-Carlo in July 1865, and the venue has been a world leader in high-stakes gaming ever since.
Now, passengers aboard Crystal Symphony can experience the thrill of this renowned attraction in a specially designed on-board space, which offers a range of 29 slot machines and three live tables featuring Blackjack, American Roulette, and Ultimate Texas Hold’em. Additionally, guests will have access to Crystal’s premium beverage offerings, including specialty cocktails and a collection of global wines served by Avenue Saloon. The casino’s design, led by SBM, draws inspiration from the original Casino de Monte-Carlo.
“We could not be prouder to unveil the first-ever Casino de Monte-Carlo at sea aboard Crystal Symphony this week,” said A&K Travel Group’s Lefebvre.
He spoke glowingly of the Group’s new partnership with SBM, calling the Monaco-based hospitality conglomerate “a global leader in the casino industry.” Lefebvre also praised the two parties’ shared commitment to delivering refined experiences for travellers.
“It is a huge pleasure to inaugurate the first Casino de Monte-Carlo ever outside the Principality of Monaco, on Crystal Symphony, and I am very grateful to Crystal for making this dream come true,” added SBM’s Valeri. “I am truly convinced that the ultimate cruise experience designed by Crystal, combined with the Monte-Carlo expertise in gaming, will strengthen our brands while creating unique moments.”
The new casino will soon expand to a second ship, Crystal Serenity, which is due to set sail from Fort Lauderdale on 18th December. Crystal has also announced plans to bring the upscale gaming experience to all its future oceangoing vessels, excluding expedition ships.
Read related:
SBM details strong financial results alongside major renovation and expansion projects
Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Tik Tok.
Photo source: Monte-Carlo SBM