Ashdod’s cruise port serves as the gateway to Israel’s most compelling sights. Two standout excursions deserve special attention: Jerusalem and Dead Sea day trips, running 8-11 hours with groups of 40 or less. In Jerusalem, you’ll experience the spiritual heart of three major religions, with must-see stops at the Mount of Olives, Garden of Gethsemane, and the historic Western Wall. The Dead Sea tours offer a unique natural wonder – floating effortlessly in mineral-rich waters while enjoying therapeutic mud treatments. I especially love these excursions for their well-organized logistics, expert guides, and inclusive pricing that covers transportation and entry fees. Let’s explore the best shore excursions that bring Israel’s treasures within easy reach.
Key Points
- Ashdod shore excursions offer access to Jerusalem’s historic sites like the Mount of Olives, Garden of Gethsemane, and Western Wall.
- Cultural experiences include visits to local Arab souks, exploring the vibrant Old City quarters, and engaging with bustling bazaars.
- The Dead Sea experience allows visitors to float in the hyper-saline water and enjoy therapeutic mud treatments.
- Private tours provide personalized experiences and flexibility, with options for wheelchair and stroller accessibility.
- Tours receive high ratings for exceptional service and knowledgeable guides, with additional charges for Saturdays and holidays.
Ashdod Shore Excursion: Jerusalem and Dead Sea – for Cruise Ship Guests Only
The Ashdod shore excursion to Jerusalem and the Dead Sea offers cruise ship passengers a chance to explore two of Israel’s most iconic destinations in a single day-long adventure.
The tour covers historic sites like the Mount of Olives, Garden of Gethsemane, Western Wall, Via Dolorosa, and Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Travelers will also visit an Arab souk, seeing the local culture.
The highlight of the excursion is the experience at the Dead Sea, where guests can float in the hyper-saline water and coat themselves in mineral-rich mud.
The tour lasts 8-11 hours, depending on ship docking times, and has a maximum group size of 40. Transportation, entrance fees, and a professional guide are included, though meals and gratuities are not.
While reviews are mixed, the Dead Sea experience is consistently praised. Travelers should be aware of the tour’s physical demands and plan accordingly.
Read our full review: Ashdod Shore Excursion: Jerusalem and Dead Sea – for Cruise Ship Guests Only Review
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Ashdod Shore Excursion: Private Jerusalem and Dead Sea Day Trip
For travelers seeking a more personalized Ashdod shore excursion, the private Jerusalem and Dead Sea day trip offers an immersive experience. This full-day tour departs from the port and takes guests to historic and holy sites in Jerusalem, including the Mount of Olives and the iconic Western Wall.
Explore the vibrant Old City quarters and bustling bazaars before heading to the serene Judean Desert and the northern shores of the Dead Sea.
At the Dead Sea, visitors can indulge in therapeutic mud treatments and float effortlessly in the salt-rich waters. The tour includes round-trip transportation, a professional private guide, and all necessary entrance fees and tolls.
Modest dress is required for the holy sites, and the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible. While an additional charge applies on Saturdays and holidays, the tour consistently earns high ratings from guests for its exceptional service and guides’ expertise.
Read our full review: Ashdod Shore Excursion: Private Jerusalem and Dead Sea Day Trip Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for Shore Excursions in Ashdod?
There’s no strict dress code for shore excursions in Ashdod. However, it’s best to wear comfortable, casual clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Travelers should also consider bringing sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen to stay comfortable during outdoor activities.
Are Children’s Discounts Available for the Shore Excursions?
Most shore excursion providers in Ashdod offer discounted rates for children. Families can often save significantly on activities and tours by taking advantage of these child-friendly pricing options. It’s worth checking with each specific provider for their discount policies.
Can We Customize the Itinerary for the Shore Excursions?
Yes, many tour operators allow passengers to customize their shore excursion itineraries. This provides flexibility to tailor the experience to individual interests and needs. Customization options may include adjusting tour duration, activities, and destinations.
What Are the Cancellation Policies for the Shore Excursions?
The cancellation policies for shore excursions typically vary, but many companies allow free cancellation up to 24-48 hours prior to the scheduled departure time. Travelers should review the specific policy for their excursion to avoid any penalties.
Are Any Additional Fees Charged for the Shore Excursions?
Additional fees may be charged for shore excursions, such as transportation costs or entry fees to attractions. It’s best to check the specific details of each excursion to understand any additional costs before booking.
The Sum Up
Ashdod offers two popular shore excursions for cruise ship guests – a guided tour to Jerusalem and the Dead Sea, or a private day trip to the same destinations. Both options provide an opportunity to explore the historical and natural wonders of this region, making the most of limited time during a port stop. Choosing the right excursion depends on individual preferences and budget.