Port Ashdod stands apart as a cruise gateway that blends Israel’s largest, best‑connected port with a modern, inviting city at its doorstep. The official_port terminal delivers efficient embarkation and disembarkation, comfortable lounges, and streamlined access for a diverse fleet—from mid‑sized liners to the newest megaships—making port calls smooth for passengers and crew alike. Signature experiences begin the moment ships dock: curated shore excursions to Jerusalem’s ancient stones, the buzz of Tel Aviv’s markets and coastline, and the timeless echoes of Bethlehem are all easily accessible, often with ship‑side options that fit tight schedules. Ashdod’s strategic position also makes it a convenient springboard to explore Israel’s most compelling destinations, reinforcing its reputation as a dynamic base for busy travelers. For the cruise fleet, the port supports a wide range of vessels with modern dock facilities, efficient passenger flow, and green‑port practices that minimize environmental impact, while onshore services keep operations humming smoothly. Onboard, guests savor the signature service and amenities of visiting ships—diverse dining from local Israeli flavors to global cuisines, immersive entertainment, spa and wellness offerings, and family or youth programs—ensuring every day at sea transitions seamlessly into memorable shore days. In short, Ashdod combines maritime efficiency with access to iconic sites, rich culture, and first‑class onboard experiences, making it a standout hub in the eastern Mediterranean.
Currency
Israeli New Shekel (ILS)
Language
Hebrew
Time Zone
IST (UTC+2)
Best Time to Visit
April and October offer ideal weather for Mediterranean cruising with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
Typical Duration
32-47 nights
Price Range
From $8,999 pp
Port Type
Port of Call
Tender Port
Yes
Gateway to Israel's Mediterranean coast and a key departure point for Eastern Mediterranean and Transatlantic cruises exploring historic ports across Europe and the Middle East.
Cruises that visit Ashdod
Build Your Day in Ashdod
Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.
Ships typically depart around 8:00 PM
Usually about 12 hours ashore
Getting around:
BIG FASHION Ashdod
There is lots of parking, the shops layout is convenient.
Closed · Opens 9:30 AM
Petra Restaurant
Great service, great food, wonderful atmosphere.
Closed · Opens 9 AM
פארק אשדוד ים
What a FANTASTIC Day.. Something for Everyone here.
Gambrinus
Great atmosphere, amazing food, fresh beer 🍻 What can better?
Closed · Opens 5:30 PM
Space
Delicious food, great service.
Closed · Opens 12 PM
Sea Mall
Reasonable prices, boutique shops, restaurants and coffee shops.
Closed · Opens 9:30 AM
Pirate Park
Great place for kids.
Idi Fish Restaurant
The food was tasty, ingredients fresh, service friendly and not formal.
Closed · Opens 12 PM
Lachish River Park
Fun and free attraction for family, and also a good place for relaxation.
Castle
Fair prices, good food, great beer.
Closed · Opens 5 PM
לבנבנים אשדוד
Plenty of stores to choose from.
Closed · Opens 10 AM
Corsar
Pleasant atmosphere, good food & service.
Closed · Opens 9 AM
Ashdod Yam Fort
The kids had a great time.
Closed · Opens 9:30 AM
פינטה אשדוד
The food was served quickly and the overall service experience was good.
Closed · Opens 4 PM
קניון עופר לב אשדוד
In-store shopping·Curbside pickup
Closed · Opens 10 AM
Namaste
Tasty food with excellent service.
Closed · Opens 12 PM
Elisheva Garden
I miss this place 😢 because I had quality time.
Ben Gurion Park
עלמא
Amazing food and great service in a nice and relaxed atmosphere.
Closed · Opens 12 PM
Park Etgarim
Lots of fun things to do for the kids.
Temporarily closed
City Garden Mall || גן העיר
There are a lot of food shops here though.
Open 24 hours
The Eye of the Sun, by Motti Mizrachi
Very nice round about art.
קניון סיטי - תחנה מרכזית אשדוד
It is an imporant mall just because it is also the main bus station.
Closed · Opens 9 AM
Star Center
Nice place plenty of shops and parking place.
Closed · Opens 10 AM
Karaoke rooms - Beat Ashdod
Dine-in·No delivery
Urbanica
Good prices, especially their jeans which I have been buying for years
Closed · Opens 9:30 AM
נאפופו בר אשדוד
The best bar in Ashdod.
Closed · Opens 9 PM
Matilda Bar
We always pair it with a Franziskaner beer on tap.
Closed · Opens 4 PM
GODA גודה
The best food, the best drinks and the important thing - the best service!
Closed · Opens 11 AM
Lorence Bar
Beatiful place & Good Vibes!
Closed · Opens 10:30 PM
שלומפר
Dine-in·No delivery
Closed · Opens 9 PM
Ashdod Museum of Art
Convenient location, excellent facilities, and very friendly staff.
Closed · Opens 10 AM
Alon Park
Good lace for BBQ.
Beer Station Ashdod City
Nice place, big choice of different beers, but not a quiet place
Closed · Opens 4 PM
Blue Ice Arena - היכל הקרח
Very nice experience for kids and also parents.
Closed · Opens 12 PM
Something something Bar - סמטינג סמטינג
A nice bar with a great vibe and great drinks !
Closed · Opens 7 PM
Port of Ashdod
Excitement overload!
Ashdod Sand Dune
דיונות
מתחם סטאר אשדוד
Perfect service
Closed · Opens 10 AM
Кальяны в Ашдоде Monkeys hookah נרגילה בר באשדוד
smooth, flavorful, and clearly made with a lot of care.
Closed · Opens 4 PM
Ashdod Shop | אשדוד שופ | הקניון הדיגיטלי של אשדוד
Excellent shopping experience.
Open 24 hours
דיזי בר • Dizzy Bar
Great food, great drinks, amazing prices and always a good atmosphere.
Closed · Opens 6 PM
Tel Ashdod
Ashdod Beach
Breathtaking
גלוריה קוקטיילים
Dine-in·No delivery
Closed · Opens 9 AM
מצפה יוחאי
Городской парк
Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.
About Ashdod
Cruise Lines at Ashdod
- Emerald Cruises (4 cruises)
- Holland America Line (3 cruises)
Cruises Departing From Ashdod
Cruises Visiting Ashdod
Ship Schedule at Ashdod
Ashdod Location
Other Cruise Ports in Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ashdod Port known for?
Israel's largest port, handling about 60% of imports.
Where is Ashdod located?
On the Mediterranean coast of Israel, coordinates 31.804381, 34.655314.
Why visit Ashdod?
A modern base for Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Bethlehem trips.
What can you explore near Ashdod?
Ancient sites, seaside promenades, markets, and culture.