Crystal elevates on board gelato...

Italian heritage brand Badiani brings authentic taste of Florence to sailings

Crystal cruise passengers can enjoy an authentic taste of Florence anywhere in the world with the addition of Badiani artisanal gelato.

Founded in 1932, the award-winning heritage Badiani brand will now be served at Scoops Gelato Bar onboard both Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity.

"Our guests expect the very best, and this collaboration reflects Crystal’s DNA of offering elevated, aspirational experiences at every touchpoint,” said Bernie Leyopold, SVP of Hotel Operations at Crystal.

Badiani’s signature scoop is the Buontalenti (also known as ‘crema fiorentine’) made with cream, milk, sugar and eggs, and created in honour of architect Barnerdo Buontalenti who is said to have introduced gelato to the powerful Medici court in the 16th century.

Badiani artisanal gelato served on board Crystal

The story goes that Buontalenti was tasked with creating a new dish to wow Spanish ambassadors at a gala dinner, and the gelato was born. Badiani registered the trademark Buontalenti dessert after winning a contest in the 1960s to celebrate the inventor of gelato.

The Buontalenti is just one of the flavours available at Scoops Gelato on Crystal, with others including Coconut, Pistachio, Hazelnut, Cookie Dough and Vanilla Madagascar, plus a selection of sorbets and lactose-free options.

“Our shops and labs are in Europe, but our award-winning gelato can now be eaten on board Crystal Cruises ships throughout the four corners of the globe," said Massimo Franchi, CEO at Badiani.

Badiani Gelato’s original store in Florence, Italy, was followed in the past 10 years by stores in the UK, Spain and France, plus additional outlets in Florence and Tuscany. The brand uses zero waste water system during production and supports local farmers while reducing their carbon footprint.

Crystal is renowned for its elevated dining experiences, which includes Umi Uma by Michelin-rated chef Nobu, the Beefbar collaboration with restaurateur Riccardo Giraudi and a curated Osteria d’Ovidio menu by Italian chef Massimiliano and restaurateur Raffaele Alajmo.

Crystal turns 35 this year and has a number of celebratory sailings featuring exclusive guests, anniversary galas and reunions alongside their existing programme of onboard entertainment.

For more information, visit crystalcruises.ae and www.crystalcruises.ae/peace-of-mind-promise. For reservations, call 8000 6512079 (UAE) or +357 26 205 216 (outside of the UAE), or email crystal@luxurycruiseportfolio.com. For travel trade partnerships, contact Head of GCC Sales Daniel Essex on dan@luxurycruiseportfolio.com