Disembarking in the port of Ashdod, cruise ship passengers can embark on an immersive journey to explore Jerusalem’s historic sites and the Dead Sea’s tranquil waters. This full-day tour offers a comprehensive experience, guiding visitors through the Old City’s winding streets, the Western Wall’s spiritual grandeur, and the serene, mineral-rich expanse of the Dead Sea. With port pickup, air-conditioned transportation, and a professional guide, the excursion provides a seamless and insightful way to discover the wonders of this storied region. However, the tour’s moderate fitness requirements and uneven terrain mean guests must carefully consider their physical abilities before deciding to join this captivating adventure.
Key Points
- A full-day tour that explores Jerusalem’s historic sites, religious landmarks, and the Dead Sea for cruise ship passengers docking at Ashdod.
- Includes a walking tour of the Old City, visiting the Western Wall, Via Dolorosa, and the opportunity to float in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea.
- Provides port pickup and drop-off, professional guide, and air-conditioned transportation, with entrance fees for the Dead Sea and beach facilities.
- Not wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain and cobblestone streets, and requires a moderate level of physical fitness.
- Maximum group size of 40 travelers, allowing for personalized attention from the guide and opportunities for questions and discussion.
Tour Overview
This Ashdold shore excursion offers cruise ship guests a full-day tour to explore Jerusalem’s historic sites, religious landmarks, and the extraordinary landscape of the Dead Sea.
The tour includes a walking tour of the Old City, where guests will visit the Western Wall, explore the Via Dolorosa, and discover the different quarters.
They’ll also travel to the Mount of Olives to gaze over Old Jerusalem and see the Garden of Gethsemane.
At the Dead Sea, guests can float and swim in its mineral-rich waters.
The tour includes port pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, and air-conditioned transportation. Entrance fees for the Dead Sea and beach facilities are also covered, though guests will need to cover gratuities and personal expenses.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ashdod.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with a walk on the Mount of Olives, where guests can gaze over the Old City of Jerusalem and see the Garden of Gethsemane.
Next, they’ll visit the iconic Western Wall, the last remaining structure from the ancient wall that surrounded the Jewish Temple.
The journey then takes them along the Via Dolorosa, the path Jesus is believed to have walked on the way to his crucifixion, culminating at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
Guests will also explore the different quarters of the Old City and visit the Last Supper room on Mount Zion.
Inclusions
The Ashdod shore excursion includes port pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, and transportation by air-conditioned minivan.
It also covers the entrance fees for the Dead Sea and beach facilities, which are approximately $12 per person. This ensures that cruise ship guests can enjoy the day’s activities without worrying about additional expenses.
The tour also provides access to historic sites, religious landmarks, and the extraordinary landscape of Israel, including the Old City of Jerusalem and the unique experience of floating in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea.
With these inclusions, the Ashdod shore excursion offers a well-rounded and hassle-free experience for cruise ship guests exploring the region.
Exclusions
While the Ashdod shore excursion includes several key inclusions, there are also a few exclusions to be aware of.
Travelers will need to cover gratuities for the guide and driver separately, as these aren’t included in the tour price. Plus, any food and drinks consumed during the day aren’t covered by the excursion, so participants should budget for their own meals and refreshments as needed.
It’s important to note that the overall duration of the tour may vary, ranging from approximately 8 to 11 hours, depending on the cruise ship’s docking times. Travelers should plan accordingly and pack any necessary items like water sandals and swimwear if they intend to float in the Dead Sea.
Confirmation and Accessibility
Confirmation is received at the time of booking, ensuring travelers have their reservation details in hand prior to the excursion. Unfortunately, the tour is not wheelchair accessible due to the uneven terrain and cobblestone streets found throughout the historic sites in Jerusalem.
| Considerations | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | Approximately 8-11 hours, depending on the ship’s docking times |
| Site Access | Subject to availability, security, holiday festivities, opening hours, queues, traffic, and other unforeseen circumstances |
| Recommended Attire | Good walking shoes, sunglasses, hat, and clothes covering shoulders and knees |
| Physical Fitness | Moderate level required; not recommended for those with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant travelers |
| Water Gear | Water sandals, bathing suits, and towels needed for Dead Sea floating |
Recommended Attire
For this excursion, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended to ensure visitors can navigate the uneven terrain and protect themselves from the sun.
Plus, clothes covering the shoulders and knees are advised, as per local customs and dress codes at the religious sites visited.
Water sandals are also recommended for those who wish to float in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea. Bathing suits and towels should be packed for this portion of the tour.
The tour involves a moderate level of physical activity, so travelers should ensure they’ve a reasonable fitness level to enjoy the full experience comfortably.
Physical Fitness and Medical Conditions
This excursion generally requires a moderate level of physical fitness, as it involves extended periods of walking over uneven terrain in the Old City of Jerusalem and around the Dead Sea.
Travelers with back problems, heart conditions, or other serious medical issues should carefully consider their ability to participate fully and comfortably. Pregnant women may also find the tour challenging and aren’t recommended to join.
Participants should have a good level of mobility and be able to walk for several hours at a time. Those with concerns about their physical capabilities are advised to consult with their healthcare provider before booking the tour.
The operator reserves the right to refuse participation to individuals deemed unfit for the excursion.
Tour Group Size
The shore excursion accommodates a maximum of 40 travelers per tour, ensuring an intimate group experience.
This smaller group size allows for more personalized attention from the professional guide, who can tailor the experience to the group’s interests and needs.
With a manageable number of participants, it’s easier to navigate the winding streets of the Old City and float in the Dead Sea’s mineral-rich waters without feeling overcrowded.
The compact group also enhances the opportunity for questions, discussion, and a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural significance of the sites visited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Stop for a Meal or Snack During the Tour?
The tour generally does not include stops for meals or snacks. Travelers will need to bring their own food and drinks or plan to purchase them at their own expense during any free time in the itinerary.
Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?
The tour likely includes restroom breaks throughout the day to accommodate passengers’ needs. Stops at various sites, such as the Old City of Jerusalem and the Dead Sea, would provide opportunities to use restroom facilities during the excursion.
Can I Bring My Own Flotation Device for the Dead Sea?
You can bring your own flotation device for the Dead Sea. However, it’s recommended to use the provided beach facilities, as they’re included in the tour price and offer a more comfortable floating experience in the mineral-rich waters.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?
The tour’s cancellation policy is not explicitly stated in the knowledge provided. However, it’s common for shore excursions to have flexible cancellation policies, often allowing guests to cancel or reschedule up to 24-48 hours before the tour without penalty.
Is There an Option to Customize or Shorten the Itinerary?
While the tour has a set itinerary, travelers can discuss options to customize or shorten the day with the tour guide. Arrangements may be possible based on individual interests, physical abilities, and time constraints.
Recap
This comprehensive Ashdod shore excursion provides cruise ship guests an immersive experience exploring Jerusalem’s historic sites and the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea.
With professional guides, air-conditioned transportation, and convenient port pickup and drop-off, this tour offers a seamless way to discover the wonders of the holy land.
However, moderate fitness is required due to the uneven terrain, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.