Cruise port Haifa

Info for port Haifa on 18 Mar 2027

03:39

GMT +3

Port information & tips for Haifa

Haifa is the dazzling port metropolis at the foot of Mount Carmel and is considered one of the most fascinating gateways to the Holy Land. The city impresses with its unique hillside location as well as a harmonious coexistence of different cultures, while simultaneously offering a breathtaking view over the bay. Among the absolute highlights are the magnificent Hanging Gardens of the Bahai, the historic German Colony with its charming stone houses, and the Stella Maris Monastery. Cruise ships dock at the modern Haifa Passenger Terminal, which guarantees excellent connectivity thanks to its central location. A short walk across the pedestrian bridge leads travelers directly into the lively lower city and to the Haifa Center HaShmona railway station, from where the city and the surrounding area can be explored effortlessly.

Arrival & Departure

Getting around

Highlights & Districts

Useful tips

Returning to the ship

The cruise port of Haifa in northern Israel impresses with its central location right in the city center and, thanks to extensive modernizations of the terminal, is a pleasant port of embarkation or disembarkation for your Mediterranean cruise. Cruise ships dock directly at the pier, which makes tendering unnecessary. A new, purpose-built cruise terminal with a capacity for up to two large ships is expected to become operational in 2027.

Airplane

For international guests from the DACH region, Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) near Tel Aviv is the primary arrival airport. It is located about 90 to 106 kilometers south of Haifa. The travel time by car is about 1 hour and 16 minutes, while a direct train connection to Haifa Center HaShmona station takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes and is considered a fast and comfortable option. Alternatively, private transfer services are available, offering a convenient door-to-door service. The smaller Haifa Airport (HFA) mainly serves domestic and some regional international flights, for example to Cyprus or Rhodes. Due to the international travel, a pre-cruise hotel stay in Haifa before embarkation is often recommended for a relaxed start.

Train

Haifa Merkaz HaShmona (Haifa Center HaShmona) railway station is optimally connected to the cruise terminal. It is located just a short walk of about 2 to 5 minutes (approx. 350 meters) from the terminal exit. From here, there are regular train connections to Tel Aviv and Ben Gurion Airport, enabling comfortable and speedy onward travel. Please note that trains in Israel do not operate during Shabbat (Friday evening to Saturday evening). Taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, and fixed fares are posted inside the terminal building.

Car & Parking

The port is easily accessible thanks to good connections to the road network, including Derech Ha'Atsma'ut (Independence Road), which serves as a coastal highway. Parking for embarking passengers is not permitted directly inside the port area, and vehicles are not allowed to drive onto the terminal bridge. However, a new long-term parking garage for cruise passengers has been available near the terminal since July 2023. The cost is NIS 40 per day, with the first half hour free of charge for dropping off luggage and transferring to the terminal. This parking lot offers a luggage service and is barrier-free. Some cruise lines, such as MSC and Royal Caribbean, have already established parking agreements with the port.

Check-in & Embarkation

Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time – depending on the cruise line and destination area – is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.

The same applies during the cruise: For shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.