Crystal River Cruises welcomed its newest ship to the fleet this week, during an official naming ceremony.

The event, which included a live performance from the ship’s godmother, Broadway star Rachel York, took place during the ship’s three-day stay in Amsterdam, as part of its 10-day Splendours of the Rhine voyage.

“Crystal River Cruises has raised the bar of excellence with each new ship, and now again as Crystal Debussy joins the fleet, effectively redefining true luxury in the river industry,” said Crystal’s president and CEO, Tom Wolber. “At the heart of this achievement are the crew and officers, all of whom are members of the Crystal team that ensure that every detail of our guests’ experience is seamless, from ship to shore.”

Sailing itineraries between Amsterdam and Basel, the 106-guest Debussy embarked on her maiden voyage along the Rhine River on 9th April. Throughout 2018 and 2019, the ship sails routes of seven and 10 days between Amsterdam and Basel along the Rhine and Moselle rivers, visiting Switzerland, Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium.

Crystal River Cruises’ vice president and managing director, Walter Littlejohn, said: “It is fitting that our crew and guests, as well as representatives from our parent company and the city and port of Amsterdam are all part of this milestone for Crystal Debussy and the Crystal River fleet. They each embody elements of the Crystal Family and our vision to create the most memorable luxury travel experiences in the world.”

York, who performed the song Defying Gravity, added that she was “truly honoured” to be godmother to the “exquisitely-designed ship”.