Crystal Cruises autumn itinerary adds Haifa and Bodrum, skips Egypt

Crystal Cruises “Ancient Lands and Cultures” voyage sailing on October 12 has a revised itinerary. According to the cruise line, the change is due to the political unrest and uncertainty in Egypt. The port call in Alexandria will be replaced with visits to Haifa, Israel and Bodrum, Turkey.

With the addition of Haifa, Crystal Serenity’s new itinerary will give guests another day in Israel, for a total of three days including the two previously scheduled days in Ashdod. Bodrum, Turkey offers guests a peek into ancient history with shore excursions to Bodrum’s Mausleum, one of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World.

The cruise begins in Piraeus (Athens) and also includes the ports of Santorini, Corfu, Dubrovnik and ending with an overnight in Venice. Enrichment speakers will be Marc Ginsburg, former U.S Ambassador to Morocco and the first U.S. Ambassador of Jewish heritage to a Middle East nation. Also adding his own insight to the various ports will be Dr. Jean-Pierre Isbouts, award-winning filmmaker/professor and author of several books about biblical history and archeology.

The visit to Haifa will be Crystal’s only visit to that city through the 2014 scheduled deployment. Bodrum will see the arrival of Crystal Cruises twice in the next two and one-half years.

The new destinations offer remarkable ancient history, such as Bodrum’s Mausoleum, one of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World, in addition to legendary beauty and culture among unspoiled beaches and charming whitewashed houses.

Special pricing on this 12-night all-inclusive cruise are in effect until April 30, 2012.

Source and photo credit: Crystal Cruises

Sherry Laskin

I’m the editor and creator of CruiseMaven.com, a solo traveler cruising the world on waves and wheels, collecting recipes along the way.  I hope my articles and photos entertain, advise and inspire you to travel the world without flying.  Take a breath…stop for a local meal and a glass of wine along the way.