I have read mixed reports of whether Americans are allowed off cruise ships that visit Libya. Most say no yet some Americans were allowed to visit this year. Does it depend on the cruise line or perhaps they have gotten a separate visa beforehand. Hope someone can answer this question. This is aside from the Israeli prohibition.

You have read of mixed reports of ships cancelling or going to ports - but as for Americans allowed off, not yet.

I have a cruise coming up (HAL Prinsendam) and all cruises planning to stop have cancelled. Ours still has it in the itinerary- but it doesn't look hopeful.

I don't care either way but DH was stationed there in the 60's and it would have been fun to see the old place for him.

I feel most fortunate to have been on a small 100 passenger (most all Americans) ship and we were allowed to visit April of '05. I think we might have been the only one that year. We were told on approach that we might be turned away and to be prepared. The first thing the officials did upon docking was to tape shut all the liquor cabinets for the 3 day duration. We were treated wonderfully in all respects. Quite often when passing people they would thank us for coming. The only thing that was refused us was to move and anchor offshore for a zodiac landing from the ship at Leptis Magma. However, we were allowed to vist by tour buses which were arranged by Libya. From what I have heard it has been "off and on" ever since. The archaeological ruins there are amazing.

Maryann: I was also stationed in Libya (happened to be in downtown Tripoli; Labor Day, 1969, when Col. Qadaffi's army overthrew King Idris' government). I for one, have no desire to go back.

sceneisle - EEK - what a day to be there !!!

John was there earlier- in the early 60's, at the airbase. Even then there was alot of hate by the Libyans. The airmen were not allowed in the town or they were set upon, etc. John had to 'make a run for it' several times. He is only interested 'for old times sake'. There are certainly more interesting and welcoming places on the map.

Louise- you really got in under the wire for visiting.

I'd rather see the pyramids and Cairo instead - anyday.

We are booked on a small ship cruise of Algeria, Tunisia & Libya in April. I called them last week about visas and was told that their October trip had been turned away. They just did more archeological sites in other 2 countries and had a good time. We get lots of travel lit about Libya, but I think it has "closed" again. We will wait & see.