The Port of Ashdod (Hebrew: נמל אשדוד) is one of Israel’s three main cargo ports. The port is situated next to the mouth of the Lachish River in Ashdod, approximately 40 kilometers south of Tel Aviv. The country’s port capacity was greatly increased by its establishment. Out of all Israeli ports, it handles the most cargo containers each year (1.525 million TEU in 2017). Ashdod is also where ships delivering relief to the Gaza Strip discharge their goods.

Overview of Ashdod Port Cruise
Ashdod, located on Israel’s Mediterranean coast, is one of the country’s largest and busiest ports, serving as a major maritime gateway for cruise passengers visiting the Holy Land. It provides access to significant cultural and religious destinations, including Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and the Dead Sea. Modern infrastructure, efficient logistics, and proximity to historic sites make Ashdod a key stop on Eastern Mediterranean itineraries.
Ashdod Port Cruise’s overview is shown in the table below:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | Israel |
| Region | Southern District (Mediterranean Coast) |
| Coordinates | 31°48′00″ N, 34°38′00″ E |
| Port Type | Deep-water commercial and cruise port |
| Draft Depth | 49 feet (15 meters) |
| Harbor Type | Artificial harbor with breakwaters |
| Vessel Arrivals | Approx. 2,000 annually (including cruise and cargo) |
| Cruise Season | March to November |
| Key Attractions | Jerusalem Old City, Dead Sea, Tel Aviv, Masada, Jaffa, Ashdod Yam Fortress |
| Cruise Lines | MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara |
| Facilities | Passenger terminal, customs, security screening, tourist information, shuttle to city center |
| Accessibility | About 40 km from Tel Aviv and 55 km from Jerusalem; accessible via Highway 4 |
| Currency Used | Israeli New Shekel (ILS) |
| Language Spoken | Hebrew, English widely understood |
What are the Port of Ashdod Cruise Terminals?
The Port of Ashdod does not have a single, dedicated cruise terminal; instead, cruise ships dock within the broader cargo port, which is also Israel’s busiest. Passengers disembark at the port and are shuttled to the main gate or downtown Ashdod, as pedestrian access is restricted inside the industrial port. However, the Port of Ashdod has invested in passenger facilities, and it serves as a modern gateway for tourism, though the facilities are integrated with commercial operations.
The following are the Ashdod Cruise Port Terminals:
- Ashdod Cruise Terminal AA
- Cruise Terminal A
- Ashdod Cruise Terminal B
- Cruise Terminal C
- Terminals D, E, as well as F
- Ashdod Cruise Terminal G
- Cruise Terminal J
- Ashdod Cruise Terminal V
Which are the Ashdod Cruise Lines?
Several cruise lines offer itineraries that stop at Ashdod, Israel, including Azamara, Celestyal Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and MSC Cruises. These lines visit Ashdod as part of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern itineraries, often as a gateway to Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and the Dead Sea.
The following list contains Ashdod Cruise Lines and other related information:
| Cruise Line | Address | Contact Number |
|---|---|---|
| MSC Cruises | 6750 N. Andrews Ave, Suite 100, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309, USA | +1 877-665-4655 |
| Royal Caribbean International | 1050 Caribbean Way, Miami, FL 33132, USA | +1 866-562-7625 |
| Norwegian Cruise Line | 7665 Corporate Center Dr, Miami, FL 33126, USA | +1 866-234-7350 |
| Celebrity Cruises | 1050 Caribbean Way, Miami, FL 33132, USA | +1 800-647-2251 |
| Azamara | 1050 Caribbean Way, Miami, FL 33132, USA | +1 855-292-6272 |
Does the Cruise Port in Ashdod have Accessible Facilities?
Yes, the Port of Ashdod offers some accessible facilities for cruise passengers, including wheelchair and pushchair accessibility for certain shore excursions and transportation options. However, the accessibility can vary, and some tours are specifically not wheelchair accessible. It is best to verify accessibility with the specific cruise line or tour provider in advance to ensure your needs will be met.
In case of the requirement of the following, the agents can help:
- Information in an accessible format
- An ADA-related concern
- Accommodation for a program or service
Additionally, Ashdod Cruise Port offers accessible parking for people with disabilities.
- Throughout at Ashdod Cruise Port Terminals, TTY/TDD phones are available.
- From here, callers who are deaf/hard of hearing can dial 711 to the Jerusalem-BethlehemIsrael Relay Service.
- Along with these, at Ashdod Cruise Port, transit services and ground transportation are available for disabled persons.
Is There Parking Available at Ashdod Cruise Ship Port?
Yes, parking is available at Ashdod Cruise Ship Port, but you should check with your specific cruise line for details on how to book it, as it may be provided through them or require advance booking. The port is modern and has facilities for passengers, but availability can vary, and it’s best to confirm arrangements beforehand.
Ashdod Port Parking at the South Side
- Multi-Level Garage J
- Multi-Level Garage K
Northside Ashdod Port Parking
- Multi-Level Garage AA
- Multi-Level Garage B
- Multi-Level Garage D
- Surface Lot D
- Multi-Level Garage G
- Surface Lot E
- Multi-Level Garage A
- Multi-Level Garage C
- Multi-Level Garage G
- Multi-Level Garage G
How to Reach Ashdod Cruise Port?
To reach the Ashdod Cruise Port from outside the port, you must use the shuttle bus service provided by the port authority, as private vehicles are not allowed in. For transportation from the port to the city or nearby areas, you can take a taxi or minibus (sherut) from the shuttle’s drop-off point, often the Central Bus Station. For those arriving by public transport, use a local bus or a taxi from the Ad Halom railway station to reach the Central Bus Station.
Note: For every transit, different rates and schedules are available.
How to Check the Port of Ashdod Cruise Schedule?
To check the most up-to-date Port of Ashdod Cruise schedule, online and offline ways are available. With an offline way, a passenger can make a call to the specific cruise line for details. Further, to check schedules online, one needs to visit the official website of the particular cruise line. Here, different schedules are available with varying locations and costs. One can make the same reservation based on necessity and budget.
What is the Map of Ashdod Cruise Port?
The configuration of the Port of Ashdod is depicted visually in the map of Ashdod Cruise Port. It displays its buildings and terminals. Travelers can use this map to plan their cruise experience, find amenities, and navigate the port. Additionally, it highlights parking amenities, transit choices, and neighboring attractions. This can make it a vital tool for them to leave Ashdod to take a cruise.
View All: Ports
Which Destinations are Served by Cruise Port in Ashdod?
The Ashdod cruise port serves destinations primarily in the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East, with common excursions focusing on nearby historical and religious sites in Israel like Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Masada, the Dead Sea, and Tel Aviv. Some cruises from Ashdod may also include ports in Greece and Turkey as part of broader regional itineraries.
Below are some destinations served by the Cruise Port in Ashdod:
| Destination | Description |
|---|---|
| Jerusalem, Israel | Holy city rich in religious history and sacred landmarks like the Western Wall and Dome of the Rock |
| Tel Aviv, Israel | Modern coastal city known for nightlife, beaches, and Bauhaus architecture |
| Haifa, Israel | Northern port city offering access to Galilee and Mount Carmel |
| Eilat, Israel | Southern resort city on the Red Sea, known for diving and coral reefs |
| Limassol, Cyprus | Popular Eastern Mediterranean cruise port with beaches and culture |
| Alexandria, Egypt | Historic port city near Cairo and the Pyramids of Giza |
| Santorini, Greece | Famous for its whitewashed villages and Aegean Sea views |
How to Contact a Cruise Port in Ashdod?
There are different ways available to contact a Ashdod Port Cruise. Visiting the port is one of the straightforward ways. This way is more suitable for domestic customers. Further, telephone numbers, FAX, emailing, and other ways are available to connect to Cruise Port in Ashdod. For disabled persons as well, specific contact numbers are accessible.
| Port Authority | Contact Details |
|---|---|
| Israel Ports Company – Ashdod Port Authority | 1 HaPort Street, Ashdod 7719100, Israel |
| Phone | +972 8 851 7333 |
| Fax Number | +972 8 851 7490 |
| info@ashdodport.co.il | |
| Website | https://www.ashdodport.co.il |
| Emergency Contact | +972 8 851 7333 (24-hour port operations) |
| TTY (for Disabled Persons) | +972 8 851 7333 |
In Sum,
One of the main entry points for cruise travel is Ashdod Cruise Port. Sometimes referred to as PortAshdod provides convenient access to the Caribbean as well as cutting-edge terminals. It is among the busiest and most well-liked cruises in the globe because of its ideal locations, contemporary amenities, and effective operations. This can give passengers a smooth and thrilling beginning to their trips.
Frequently Asked Questions on Ashdod Cruise Port
Does Ashdod Cruise Port provide luggage storage lockers?
Is there a lost and found in Ashdod Port Cruise?
To which locations do ships depart from the Cruise Port in Ashdod?
What is the annual passenger volume of Ashdod Cruise Ship Port?
How does the Ashdod Cruise Port check-in procedure work?
Does Ashdod Cruise Port have any facilities for kids?
Where is Ashdod Cruise Port located?
What are the primary destinations for cruises departing from Ashdod Cruise Port?
Which cruise lines operate from Ashdod Cruise Port?
How far is Ashdod Cruise Port from Ashdod International Airport?
Which bridge connects Ashdod Cruise Port to downtown Ashdod?
Which terminal at Ashdod Cruise Port is specifically designed for mega cruise ships?
What facilities are available for travelers at Ashdod Cruise Port?
Can you park your vehicle at Ashdod Cruise Port?
What is the best way to reach Ashdod Cruise Port from downtown Ashdod?
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