Israeli holidaymakers will set a new course this summer when Royal Caribbean International begins sailing from Israel for the first time in May.
The global cruise line will offer Israelis a combination of 3- to 7-night escapes visiting the Greek Isles and Cyprus on board the brand-new Odyssey of the Seas, pictured here on Saturday making her way along the Ems River in Germany towards the North Sea.
The itineraries, roundtrip from Haifa will include visits to the Greek isles and the Mediterranean.
Residents of Israel, which is ahead of the game in combatting the pandemic fallout, will be the first guests to cruise on Odyssey during its inaugural season.
“Thanks to the millions of vaccines we have brought, I am proud that Israel will be the first country in the world to launch Royal Caribbean’s new flagship,” said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
“Royal Caribbean’s decision to come to Israel is a significant expression of confidence in our policy. This is an important economic, touristic moment for the State of Israel.”
The innovative ship is designed to make for a memorable holiday for every kind of traveller, with a variety of new and signature experiences.
In conjunction with Israel’s health and tourism authorities, Royal Caribbean will be the first to offer fully vaccinated sailings, where both crew and guests above the age of 16 will be vaccinated against COVID-19. Details on the additional health and safety measures to be implemented by Israel and Royal Caribbean will be announced at a later date.
The Greek Minister of Tourism, Mr Haris Theoharis, supports all the efforts for the resumption of cruising in Greece and the surrounding area. He said: “We are very happy with today’s announcement as our recent travel agreement with Israel is already bringing results, and more people will have the opportunity to have unique experiences in our beautiful destinations and islands.”
Savvas Perdios, the Deputy Minister of Tourism for Cyprus commented: “It is an honour to be featured in Royal Caribbean’s itinerary this summer, and we are delighted to welcome their newest ship to our island.
“Cyprus supports the cruise industry and is pleased to help the industry on its road to recovery. We are certain that guests will have a great time, both on board the ship and when visiting Cyprus, one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean.”