Port information & tips for Ashdod
Ashdod is the maritime gateway to the Holy Land and one of the most important cruise ports on the Israeli Mediterranean coast. The modern port city delights visitors with its combination of golden sandy beaches, extensive parks, and impressive cultural diversity. Local highlights include the expansive Ashdod-Yam Park with its dancing fountain and the historic Givat Yonah viewpoint, which offers a spectacular panoramic view over the city and the sea. Cruise ships dock at the Ashdod Cruise Terminal, from where the city center, about six kilometers away, and the biblical sites in Jerusalem are easily accessible thanks to excellent transport links and shuttle services.
The Port of Ashdod is a significant cruise port in Israel with a modern passenger terminal that enables smooth embarkation. Private vehicles are not allowed to enter the port grounds directly; however, efficient shuttle buses ensure a comfortable journey from the designated parking area to the terminal. Arriving the day before is highly recommended for international flights to ensure a relaxed start to your cruise.
Airplane
The closest and most relevant airport for travelers from the DACH region is Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) near Tel Aviv, located approximately 33 to 46 kilometers northeast of Ashdod. The travel time from the airport to the port is about 34 to 45 minutes thanks to good road connections. Numerous private transfer providers are available for comfortable journeys, often with meet-and-greet services and fixed prices that guarantee a relaxed onward journey.
Train
Ashdod Ad Halom station (Ashdod–Ad Halom–Metropol) is the central hub for rail travelers and offers connections within the region, including Tel Aviv. The travel time by train to Tel Aviv is approximately 52 minutes. From Ashdod Ad Halom station, you can easily reach the cruise terminal, located about 5 kilometers away, by taxi.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Given the long journey from the DACH region, an overnight stay in a hotel in Ashdod before your cruise is recommended. The city offers a variety of hotels, including the Leonardo Plaza Ashdod and the West All Suites Hotel Ashdod, which often have parking facilities and allow for a pleasant start to your vacation. From the hotel, you can then use a shuttle or taxi to the port terminal, as entering the port grounds with private vehicles is prohibited and a shuttle service is offered from the parking area to the terminal.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the journey: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the latest announcements and the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
