Crystal Cruises has announced the return of three cruise directors as the company prepares to resume operations under new ownership, indicating its readiness to follow the footsteps of the previous leadership.

Rick Spath, a Crystal veteran of 18 years, will lead Crystal Serenity when it resumes service on July 31, while Russ Grieve will head the team on Crystal Symphony when it sets sail on September 1. Raphael Derkson, who previously served as the start-up musical director on Crystal Symphony before taking on the role of cruise director on Serenity, will also be returning.

According to Keith Cox, the Vice President of Entertainment for Crystal, the role of Cruise Director is crucial on board, and the company is delighted to have this group rejoin their team. Rick Spath, who first became a cruise director in 1984, has led 16 World Cruises so far and will be leading the 17th in 2024.

Russ Grieve, who joined Crystal in 2018 after serving as cruise director on the Azamara Quest, has a background in acting and singing, including a long stint in the Broadway musical "Mamma Mia!"

Both Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony are currently undergoing extensive refurbishments, including updates to their suites and wellness options such as a new Pickleball court.