Crystal Cruises’ 2010 world cruise will include six maiden calls in the Middle East. The cruise will stop at ports in Iran, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Oman as well as ports in Africa, India and South America. The world cruise departs Miami on Jan. 11, 2010.

Cruise West has announced its eight-day Mexico’s Sea of Cortes Whales and Wildlife schedule for 2008/2009, which will feature five specialty cruises, including a John Steinbeck-inspired cruise with onboard literary experts.

MSC Cruises offers clients some interesting excursions in its 2008-2009 Caribbean itineraries. Several shore excursion options enable guests to explore the Caribbean on land (by motorcycle, bicycle, ATV or horseback), under the sea (snorkeling, scuba diving and glass-bottomed kayaking) and through the air (attached to a cable between 100-foot-high trees).

Oceania Cruises published 2009 European Collection Brochure that details 56 voyages. For a limited time, Oceania Cruises has expanded its Free Airfare offer from 20 North American gateways to more than 100 and is offering 2-for-1 cruise fares that begin at $2,299 per guest.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises confirmed that a new ship is under development. During an America’s Vacation Center webinar yesterday, Regent Seven Seas President Mark Conroy said the line plans to get delivery the yet-unnamed ship in 2012.

Avalon Waterways is investing millions of dollars in the fast-growing river cruise segment. The company inked a five-ship deal with the Den Breejen Shipyard in Holland.