Prominent political and world affairs pundits James Carville, Mary Matalin, former Ambassador Marc Ginsberg, and 4-star General Hugh Shelton will square off exclusively aboard Crystal Cruises in 2012, as part of the “Ocean Views” program. Via discussion panel format moderated by British foreign correspondent Ken Rees, the big-league foursome will provide fascinating expert insight into hot-button topics of the day, such as the changing Middle East landscape and upcoming 2012 U.S. presidential election.

As a buildup to the debate, scheduled for Crystal Serenity’s World Cruise segment departing March 31 from Osaka to LA, all commentators will also present individual lectures in their area of expertise.

“Ocean Views” brings together renowned experts from both sides of the aisle in a moderated debate of global issues and news items, followed by live Q&A. New to the 2012 Ocean Views program is interactive technology that will allow audience members to anonymously share their own opinions during the debate via individual electronic polling keypads.

“’Ocean Views’ was a huge success when it was introduced this year, and we’re really taking it to the next level in 2012,” says Chris Corrigall, Crystal’s entertainment manager. “With this caliber of top minds gathered live and in person for spirited, participatory discussion, Crystal is offering current events enrichment in a very novel, and fascinating way.”

The Experiences of Discovery theme will fuse other renowned experts together on four additional sailings throughout 2012, including international economics expert Robert Warne, counter-terrorism analyst Farhana Qazi, former LA Times editor Shelby Coffey, Ambassador Wendy Chamberlin, and Major General Pat Brady.