Crystal set to launch river cruising in March 2017

Luxury Crystal Cruises plans to launch its river cruising program in March of 2017, the cruise line said Monday.

The Los Angeles-based cruise operator released the first details about Crystal River Cruises since announcing last month that it would add river, yacht and air operations to its two-ship fleet. The line will also add three more ocean ships.

According to a press release, the river vessels will be designed to resemble yachts and include 70 suites. Most of the suites will measure 250 square feet, though high rollers can splurge on one of two 500-square-foot penthouse suites.

Both vessels will launch in Europe in March of 2017, a spokeswoman said.

Itineraries will include destinations in France, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Slovakia, Hungary and Croatia, and will feature some overnight stays in port.

Crystal was acquired earlier this year by Genting Hong Kong for $550 million.

This story was originally published August 10, 2015 at 5:53 PM with the headline "Crystal set to launch river cruising in March 2017."