Culture & History Of The Ashdod Cruise Port
Israels history is a huge part of the reason why people visit, particularly its role in several of the worlds major religions. The Philistines conquered the area in the 12th century BC. Little evidence of Philistine occupation of the area remains, as the city has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, and whatever does remain is carefully catalogued at the Museum of Philistine Culture in Ashdod. The city changed hands multiple times throughout ancient history through the Hellenistic period and beyond.
Ashdod plays a major role in Israels imports and trade economy, and over 60% of the countrys imports pass through the Port of Ashdod. The city is primarily industrial to suit that purpose, but Ashdod has the benefit of slow, intentional growth. Its just beginning as a major player on the worlds stage. Now, cruise traffic brings new people to the city each year.
Ashdod Port Facilities & Location
The port of Ashdod is one of the largest in Israel, and many of the countries imported goods pass through this port. Geographically, Jerusalem is east of the port of Ashdod, and Tel Aviv is further north by about a half hour drive. To leave the port, you will likely have to pass through immigration, as the port primarily services cargo and imports, their process is more stringent than other ports in Israel. From there, you will leave the terminal by bus or taxi to get to the city center or another destination.
Helpful Tips Before You Go
Plan accordingly for where your ship docks in Israel. Israel cruise ports of call for Jerusalem will actually pull into port in Ashdod, a coastal city located about an hour from Jerusalem. In Haifa, youll dock right in the city center and are in walking distance to shops and restaurants, plus some of Haifas main sites. It provides you with a convenient place to walk around and explore before or after a shore excursion if time allows.
When visiting Israel, its important to dress respectfully. When figuring out what to pack for your cruise to Israel, youll want to pack clothes that are lightweight since it will likely be hot during the months youll be there. Its important that some of these lightweight clothes include shirts with long sleeves plus pants or long skirts instead of shorts. The reason for this is due to the strict dress codes at the religious sites that require elbows and knees to be covered for both men and women. Hair also sometimes need to be covered. Breathable materials like cotton and linen are great to pack. Shawls that pack up into a small ball are also helpful as they can be easily thrown into a daypack and wrapped around you when visiting places of worship.
Middle East / Holy Land Cruises To Israel And Egypt
The Middle East features so many topographical contrasts- from vast deserts to lush valleys – this is one of the perfect destinations to become an adventurer! On some Middle East cruises you will be also transiting the Suez Canal .
Part of the “Middle East Cruises” group, Holy Land cruise tours deals may also include visiting Eastern Mediterranean ports in Greece or Turkey. When you have to fly a long distance for your Holy Land or Middle East cruise, better arrive at the departure port one or two days in advance, and you will have time to rest. Get oriented before you board the ship- most lines offer pre-cruise packages with hotel stays, and even guided city tours.
Holy Land voyages are derivative of Eastern Mediterranean itinerary group, but “Holy Land Cruises” always visit Israel and Egypt – calling on ports of Haifa and/or Ashdod in Israel, and Alexandria or Port Said in Egypt. A cruise ship vacation to Holy Land will promise a rich in history voyage and much adventure. Today’s fate of Jerusalem is at the center of Middle East unrest. But in spite of all religious fighting and political maneuvering, you will find the Holy Land cruise being an unmatched destination itself. This is a very special itinerary and a unique combination of history, climate, natural beauty, and meaning. After you visit Jerusalem, you will be changed forever. The Holy Land is a historic destination, it will both educate and fascinate you.
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Bermuda Cruises From Florida
Traditionally, if you wanted to go on a cruise to Bermuda, you had to sail from the Northeast United States. In summer 2022, Royal Caribbean will offer cruises to Bermuda from Florida.
Select sailings of Mariner of the Seas from Port Canaveral will offer 8-night sailings to Bermuda, which include two days in Kings Wharf, before heading to Nassau for a late night stay and then a full day at Perfect Day at CocoCay.
There are six of these Bermuda cruises available to book between May and October 2022.
Read more: Royal Caribbean will finally offer cruises to Bermuda from Florida
Hosts: Andy Woods And Bill Perkins
And along the way, Andy Woods and Bill Perkins will be your hosts, lecturing on our days-at-sea and teaching on land in Israel, Athens, Ephesus, Corinth, and Rome, making your Bible come alive like never before!
Plus, you can add historic Florence, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the mind-blowing water-filled streets of Venice as an incredible post-cruise option.
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Cruises To Israel And Egypt Which One To Choose
Many cruise lines offer cruises to Israel and Egypt, usually paired with other ports of call and collectively called a Holy Land cruise. From the wonders of Ancient Egypt and its many mysteries to the Holy places like Israel and Jerusalem, cruises to this part of the world are attractive to many tourists.
Israel cruises take you to interesting ports of call whether you are religious, a historian or just like to explore far off lands. So many cruise lines go to this part of the world departing from many ports. Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Princess, Celebrity, Cunard and Holland America are all well-known cruise lines offering cruises to Israel. These lines are known for their large ships carrying lots of passengers and boasting many ship board activities, rock climbing walls, pools, movies under the stars, attention to every detail, spas, solariums and so much more. The cruise is a vacation itself as you have everything your heart could desire right at your fingertips.
For people who like it more laid back and casual, the best Mediterranean cruises for you would be on the smaller, more intimate ships. Azamara Club, Oceania, Silversea and the Regent Seven Seas all boast ships that hold fewer passengers, have less onboard activities and allow for relaxation and meditation as you cruise towards your destinations. Most have a more casual approach to dress and dining options and make you feel more in control than you might on the larger floating cities.
Health And Safety Protocols
Everything Royal Caribbean does, onboard and on land, is about safeguarding the guests and crew. Royal Caribbean ships provide a worry-free vacation! Here are some steps we are taking to ensure we keep you healthy. Royal Caribbeany has developed a comprehensive plan to respond to COVID-19 situations, just in case. Preparedness is key! If someone should fall ill or display symptoms while sailing, Royal Caribbean has rigorous protocols in place, including intensified cleaning, air filtration, and sanitizing procedures and medical isolation. Each ship has reviewed their inventory and are all well-equipped with supplies and personal protective equipment, such as masks and medicine.
REDUCED TRAVEL TO IMPACTED COUNTRIES
Along with a team of medical experts and guidance from health organizations, Royal Caribbean is monitoring the situation and either canceling or modifying itineraries to impacted areas.
ENHANCED BOARDING SCREENING
At the pier, all guests participate in mandatory screenings that include exclusion due to travel based on temporary restrictions and even a thermal scan to check everyone’s temperature. Some guests may be subject to a secondary review. Dependent of screening results, some guests may be denied boarding to ensure Royal Caribbean is keep their ships healthy and safe.
HEIGHTENED SANITATION AT CRUISE TERMINALS
ADDITIONAL SANITATION SAFEGUARDS ONBOARD SHIPS
HAND SANITIZERS EVERYWHERE
ENHANCED MEDICAL PROTOCOLS
STATEROOM CLEANLINESS
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Biblelands Cruise Explore Gods Special Place On Earth The Land Of The Bible
Youve read about it, now its time to see it with your own eyes! And once you do, youll simply never be the same. Come with us and see your Bible change from black and white to full living color!
We use our own itineraries, hotel accommodations, schedules, sites, buses, and guides to make your trip to Gods special place on earth the best it can be.
Weve designed a fantastic itinerary on a remarkable 16-day trip that includes 12 cruise days. Youll experience up-close many of the forever-impacting Mediterranean ports youve read about in your Bible. When you add our stellar at-sea Bible studies, theres not a better Holy-Land itinerary on any ship!
Life Onboard Odyssey Of The Seas
Coming at you in 2020 with first-at-sea innovations, luxury staterooms and suites, welcome aboard the Odyssey of the Seas. Read more
Showcasing impeccable award winning service and game changing innovation, the Royal experience is bound to exceed expectations. Read more
Thrilling adrenaline fuelled activities, a range of classes and fitness facilities, Odyssey is a holiday destination of her own accord. Read more
Tantalise your tastebuds with the complimentary and specialty dining options on Odyssey of the Seas, from fine dining to casual treats. Read more
Every night offers you world class entertainment such as world class Broadway shows, guest performers, dancing and themed bars. Read more
With a luxury on board spa offering professional treatments and a range of classes there are many ways to enjoy quiet time on board. Read more
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Regent Seven Seas Cruises
All-inclusive cruise line Regent Seven Seas is offering a 14-night tour of sacred lands and picturesque canals, including three days in the port of Haifa for the city of Jerusalem.
The lines unique offering means that all shore excursions are included in the price, which for destination-heavy itineraries like this one, is a huge bonus. There are a staggering 35 small and large-group excursions to choose from, catering to all fitness levels. Explore Galilee, the Jordan River, and the Mount of the Beautitudes, or head to Nazareth, Jesus childhood home.
Departing June 5, 2022, other ports of call include Limassol , Rhodes , Ephesus and Istanbul , Kavala, Mykonos and Santorini , Dubrovnik and Venice .
Jerusalem to Venice, prices from £9,309 per person.
Norwegian Cruise Line To Sail Holy Land Cruises In 2019
Ashdod, a common ship stop for Holy Land cruises. Photo: Shutterstock.com.
At a travel agent breakout session onboard Norwegian Cruise Line’s new Bliss, executives talked about how they choose itineraries, in general, and said they are eyeing the Middle East, in particular. The cruise operator is in talks to bring its cruise ships to the Holy Land by late 2019.
We get asked about the Holy Land all the time, and weve just completed two trips to Israel and Cyprus, though there are still some challenges in Egypt, said Director of Sales Development Glen Rothe. In the works is a cruise that would include three days in Israel and then other stops, sailing in November and December 2019.
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Weve done the Middle East before, but then we took a break and went to the Canary Islands instead. We used to stop there on the way to Singapore and its an area we want to go to, Rothe told Travel Market Report after the session. And positive feedback in the region from Oceania and Regent, which sail to Turkey, got NCL to thinking about adding a new itinerary.
The new itinerary is a perfect fit for NCLs recent focus on the affinity group market, for which it just announced a new program. Religious groups are likely to be a big and dominant market for Christmas in the Holy Land.
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Top Food And Drink Spots Near The Ashdod Cruise Port
Cafe Clara
Come here for kosher eats in a relaxed, casual setting in Katzrin. They provide classics like salmon and tuna sandwiches, beet ravioli, and other simple Italian-inspired dishes. They also serve simple breakfasts like bagels and eggs.
Pescado
For a more upscale dining experience, dont miss Pescado while youre in Ashdod. They specialize in fish dishes of all types, from sashimi to ceviche, tuna carpaccio to stone-baked bass. Every dish will include Israeli and Mediterranean touches.
Gambrinus
This simple European pub is one of the top-rated in the area, focusing on huge entrees like streak, ribs, whole fish dishes, grilled shrimp, and plenty of fresh seafood at a moderate price. They also have a wide selection of beer and cocktails. Note that Gambrinus isnt kosher.
Cruise Lines Offering Holy Land Cruises
Cruise Lines Offering Holy Land Cruises
Several cruise lines sail to the Holy Land each year. Most only offer the cruise once each year, generally in September or October. All cruises depart from Europe, usually from Rome, Greece or Istanbul. The itinerary varies, but all ships stop in Ashdod, Haifa or both cities. All offer a variety of accommodations, depending on your budget.
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Cruises To The Holy Land Reviewed
By | Submitted On August 17, 2010
Getting deals on the Holiday Land cruises
There are various sources of information that you can look at when you are looking for details of the Holiday Land cruises. For example there is some provision from the AVC cruises. This is a company that has been giving information about holidays for the best part of forty five years. The members of the team will be able to advise you on the latest deals and they might even agree for you to manage the booking systems. There is a wide range of provision from the family cruises to the luxurious cruises that have a great reputation in the world. It is also important that you take care of the customer satisfaction side of things because it could become crucial to the level of success that you can enjoy from the trips. The critics often go to the website to look up the details on the latest offers. These pages are not closed to the general public so you should take advantage of them.
Best Of All 10 Tours In Our Holyland Cruise Tour
Our group of 39 people spent 1 day in Haifa/Akko and one day in Jerusalem/Qumran and the Dead Sea on April 10 and 11, 2011 with Guidedtoursisrael.com, also named Top-Day-Tours Group. Our guide was very professional without her, our trip would not have been complete. The itinerary that we requested was extremely full as we were cruise passengers who could afford only one day at each port. Israel is so rich in history and culture that it was impossible to cover all that we wanted to see. Our tour guide efficiently altered the schedule of our itinerary a little bit to try to fit every item in, plus more. She narrates the history and stories of each sight which added meaning to our tour. She was knowledgeable. It almost appeared as if she studied each sight the night before and came the next morning, armed with fresh materials to present a Ph.D thesis. Most tour guides are knowledgeable, but not all of them have personalities. Ours had both. She was upbeat and humorous, and often poked fun at herself to make a joke. She worked tirelessly for many hours in each long day and was able to engage all of our interest morning till night without losing a beat. She allowed us to come away from Israel with treasured memories and a very pleasant impression of Israelite tourism sophistication. She deserved our thunderous claps at the end of our 2-day tour.
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Optional Venice Florence & Pisa
But theres more! You also have the option of extending your trip a few extra days by adding two nights in Venice and two nights in Tuscany, visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa and breathtaking Florence. If youve got the time and a few extra bucks, add this incredible extension!
Finally, the ship is Celebritys stunning new Apex in a class by itself. Celebrity Cruises ships have recently been voted Best Premium Cruise Line twelve years in a row by Travel Weeklys Readers Choice Awards.
Information For Cruises To Israel
A Mediterranean cruise isnt just for visiting the countries of southern Europe. You can also select an itinerary that stops in Israel cruise ports. It will give you a break from the more heavily traveled countries of Europe as you get off the beaten path with a day or two experiencing the ancient history and modern day culture of Israel.
Once you arrive in our Israel cruise ports of call, youll be close to some of the countrys most incredible attractions and scenery. You can see religious sites in Haifa as well as mountains and the curving coastline of the Mediterranean. In Ashdod, youll be a shore excursion away from the wonders of Jerusalem or the city of Tel Aviv.
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Top 5 Unique 2022 Royal Caribbean Cruises You Can Book Now
Royal Caribbean has released its first batch of summer 2022 cruises, and I hand picked five itineraries that stood out as something different or intriguing.
Every year Royal Caribbean will offer a full compliment of cruises, and many of these sailings are tried-and-true itineraries that guests love. In addition, a few new or somewhat different sailings get added in and many cruise fans love to look for something distinctive.
I went through each of the releases for summer 2022 in Caribbean, Alaska and Europe to find the top 5 Royal Caribbean cruises worth taking a look at if you want something special from the rest of the cruises.