Crystal Cruises Unveils 2012 Itineraries

Doesn't this veranda look inviting?

Photo courtesy of Crystal Cruises

Crystal Cruises have released their 2012 itineraries for waitlisted pre-booking, and there's a lot to like about the coming lineup. With 59 distinct itineraries featuring 183 ports in 66 countries, finding a voyage that appeals isn't difficult.

 For the ultimate voyage, the line is also offering a spectacular 94-day World Cruise departing round-trip from Los Angeles on Wednesday, January 18, 2012.  Passengers are whisked to Hawaii, Australia, Asia, Eastern Russia, and Alaska and the Pacific Coast before returning to LA on Saturday, April 21, 2012.

 2012 marks the first time a Crystal ship

will call at Akureyri, Iceland.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

A number of Maiden Calls are also in store for Crystal in 2012.  Many are unique and out-of-the way ports like Ponza, Italy and Newcastle, Australia, but there were a few on the list that we were surprised to learn Crystal had never been to, like Akureyri, Iceland and Panama City, Panama.

Sadly, one destination is noticeably absent from Crystal's 2012 lineup: Alaska.  Despite a return to the region in 2011 after a five-year hiatus, the line doesn't plan to return to the 49th State in 2012 except for a brief segment on the world cruise.

Curious about what 2012 holds for Crystal - and you?  Have a peek at their online itineraries and start planning your escape today.