Mediterranean cruises go to Libya and Beirut

Who would've guessed that Mediterranean cruise passengers want to go to (formerly) dangerous Libya and Beirut? It appears that they do. The rush to Tripoli, Libya is on now that relations have warmed with that outlaw nation, which is famous for its archaeological ruins. Silversea plans four stops this year and nine in 2006. Costa Cruises begins visits in September. Two Oceania ships, the Regatta and Insignia, arrive for the first time in November. MSC Cruises also introduces port calls in November, and Seabourn, Radisson and Crystal plan first stops next year.

Silversea just made its first stop in the Mediterranean city of Beirut and, despite this year's turmoil, plans to go ahead with three more stops in 2005 and six stops in 2006. Silversea also plans its first visit to neighboring Syria this year and has six stops planned for 2006.

Silversea cruises is obviously willing to take some risks to be able to offer exotic adventures to its passengers.