Photo Courtesy of Crystal Cruises
Crystal Cruises, a favorite luxury cruise line for many discerning travelers, is now offering yet another one-of-a-kind adventure. These Boutique Adventures are a way to expose Crystal passengers to exclusive cultural experiences that the ports-of-call have to offer.
The “Exotic Amazon" voyage, which begins March 10, will allow 15 guests the special opportunity to attend a private mass at the Our Lady of Aparecida Chapel. The beautiful church is located at the base of one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the stunning Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro—the chapel itself a testament to the patron saint of Brazil. It sits 2,300 feet above the bay, offering spectacular views of the city and surrounding natural attractions.
Before the service, the "congregation" will be lead on an excursion through Rio, the Tijuca Forest, and finally up Corcovado Mountain, at the top of which is the chapel, and the enormous Christ statue. The services will take place at 5 p.m. and offer a unique perspective of the religious culture of Brazil, as well as an incredible opportunity to see the awe-inspiring landmark up-close and personal.
The chapel, which usually only allows Brazilian clergy to hold mass, is allowing Crystal Cruises' English-speaking, on-board priest, Monsignor Davis, to proctor the intimate service for the limited number of guests. The church has always been exclusive, and this mass will be a first of its kind for the cruise ship industry. The excursion is available for $145 per guest, in addition to the $9,415 for the 21-day "Exotic Amazon" voyage. The ship will also make stops in Barbados, Key West, and eventually end its journey in Miami.