On a visit to Sydney last week, Philip Ordover, vice president of international sales and marketing for Crystal Cruises, confirmed that the cruise line will become all-inclusive in 2012.

In so doing, the luxury line will be joining its competitors, Silversea, Seabourn and Regent Seven Seas, in including almost all beverages and gratuities in its fares.

All-inclusive beverages are to include fine wines and premium spirits throughout the ship (non-alcoholic beverages, such as soft drinks, bottled water, juices and specialty coffee drinks, are already complimentary and will remain so) – ultra-premium liquors and wines will not be included.

All-inclusive gratuities include house keeping and bar and dining staff, with Penthouse butler service and service in all of Crystal’s fine dining restaurants thrown in for good measure.

Ordover also announced a limited-time offer of 50 per cent saving on voyages in 2012, along with free flights in business or economy class and transfers or a cruise-only credit.