The Dream Ship: Sailing All the Way to Vacation | Israel today

Passover is just around the corner, and if you have not yet booked a place on the cruise, it's time to pick up the phone to Ista and connect to the hot trend that is bouncing the pulse of all vacationers passing through the port of Haifa.

"All the major cruise companies in the world - MSC, Royal Caribbean and Norway - have identified the huge demand of the Israeli tourist for a quality and rich cruise, and they bring their ships to the port of Haifa, so you do not have to catch a flight and go through complicated procedures. And enjoy the freedom from the first minute, "says Barbara Weiner, director of the sailing department at Issta.

Sounds wonderful, like there is no corona in the world.

"There is a corona, so the tourism industry has suffered a severe blow, however we feel we are at the end of the corona era and still the cruise industry takes extra care and opens cruises to the vaccinated only in many cases. The ventilation systems on the ships are among the most advanced in the world "To the shore - get off the ship and refer you to a medical center as needed or for isolation. Each ship has a clinic with a doctor and nurses who take great care of the passengers' health."

Issta is the largest tourism company in Israel that leads the field of cruises with dozens of travel consultants who specialize in sailing.

"You can find packages with special prices and personal service, which is especially important at a time when the tourism industry is under a lot of restrictions and conditions. Our agents, who undergo high level professional training, can guide you which rooms are suitable for older people who have difficulty walking. Slides, with a water park, or for people who like to travel and can settle for a cheaper room.In addition, a skilled travel agent can answer any question: what are the cancellation conditions, what happens if the cruise is canceled, how safe is the cruise, which company is right for me? A professional knows how to answer all the questions. "

What are the favorite destinations of Israelis?

"The most popular cruise this year is the cruise that departs from Haifa and passes through Cyprus, Greece and Turkey. This is a very hot trend among Israelis, and we are witnessing very high levels of demand. The places are really snatched, Other popular destinations are Italy, Spain and France with major ports such as Palma de Mallorca, Genoa and Marseille. "

Photo: MSC CRUISES,

How long does the cruise last and what can you see?

"A classic cruise lasts about a week. We have one-week plus two-day packages. If you take a cruise from Barcelona, ​​then the day before the cruise you come to the city, travel and enjoy. The next day you set sail, then return for another day of fun in Barcelona, ​​before returning to the country."

How much does it cost us?

"We offer vacationers two options. The first option is to buy the cruise and the flight to the cruise destination. It starts at $ 1,600 per person in an inner room, with full board. Another option is to go on an organized cruise, which is like an organized trip on flights, only on a cruise. When the ship passes, you also get a tour in Hebrew. The price for an organized trip is $ 2,200 per person. It costs $ 160 per day, which if you compare it to a vacation abroad, in a five-star hotel, full board for ten days - it is not comparable at all.

You have three full meals, shows that alternate every evening at Broadway level, dance, singing and circus shows.

There are gyms, pools, spas, cafes and concept restaurants, children's games and a casino.

The huge ships even have large water parks with slides, pools and one of the most advanced children's clubs in the world. "

What about the place that Israelis like most on the trip: Duty Free?

"There is a duty free in the port of Haifa, but those who board a luxury ship find out very quickly that with all due respect to duty - the real experience is to discover the world in a five star hotel on the water. Israelis are really thirsty to rediscover the world. In such a vacation you enjoy all the worlds: both a good stomach, good food and of course shopping. Each destination has its uniqueness and fun. There is a huge advantage in sailing, that you do not have to run from flight to flight with luggage. Everything is waiting for you in the room "From the beginning of the holiday to the end."

Sorry, but what about the nausea?

"These are huge ships, between 70,000 and 200,000 tons. I was on ten cruises and never felt nauseous. You feel the ship move, but gently. Even if you feel nauseous, the ship has a medical team that will give you a pill to eliminate any nausea. The service is excellent and the attitude "There is one crew member for every three passengers, so the passenger gets a different level of experience with amazing views, great food and a great experience that will not be forgotten for a lifetime."