Israelis Flock to Cruise Vacations, Booking Summer 2027 Trips
Translated & summarized from Israel Hayom by baba
Israelis are booking cruise vacations for summer 2027 in record numbers, exceeding pre-war demand, according to Udi Shenhav of Senatora, Royal Caribbean's Israeli representative. The Legend of the Seas is expected to sell out its next season by November, with Europe and the Caribbean being popular destinations. While cruise lines are interested in returning to Haifa, political stability is required for their ships to resume sailing from Israel.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Israeli cruise bookings for summer 2027 are surging, surpassing pre-war demand.
- The Legend of the Seas is expected to sell out its entire 2027 season by November.
- Europe remains the top destination, but Caribbean cruises are gaining popularity.
- Royal Caribbean ships will not return to Haifa until political stability is achieved.
- Premium and luxury cruise brands are also available for couples and high-end travelers.
Israeli demand for cruise vacations is surging, with bookings for summer 2027 already underway, according to Udi Shenhav, CEO of Senatora, Royal Caribbean's exclusive representative in Israel. Shenhav reports that demand has surpassed pre-war levels, with the new ship Legend of the Seas expected to sell out its entire next season by the end of November. "The Legend ship has created crazy demand that is still at its peak," Shenhav stated, noting that while Israelis typically book six to eight months in advance, this year's bookings are far ahead of schedule.
While Europe, particularly the Mediterranean routes from Barcelona or Rome, remains the primary destination, Shenhav observes a growing interest in Caribbean cruises, often combined with trips to the United States. The Wonder of the Seas, offering shorter, more affordable Caribbean trips from Florida, is selling exceptionally well. The optimal time for Caribbean cruises is November to June, making them popular during Hanukkah and Passover holidays. The Legend will transition to the Caribbean after its European season ends in late October and return to the Mediterranean in May.
For budget-conscious travelers, the Mariner of the Seas, scheduled to sail the Mediterranean in summer 2027, offers a more affordable option after a renovation that included new slides and family attractions. This ship will feature routes including Greece and the Western Mediterranean. Shenhav attributes the appeal of cruises to families with children, aged five and up, and teenagers, citing the convenience of having all activities and amenities in one secure location.
Royal Caribbean also offers premium and luxury brands. Celebrity Cruises targets couples with stylish, high-end ships, while Silversea Cruises caters to those seeking luxury on smaller ships with all-suite accommodations, starting around $1,000 per person per night. The company is also expanding its fleet with the Hero of the Seas, the fourth Icon-class ship, set to debut in the Caribbean from Miami in summer 2027.
Despite the strong Israeli demand for international cruises, the return of Royal Caribbean ships to Haifa remains uncertain. Shenhav stated that while the company is interested in returning, it will not happen until there is political stability and calm, citing security concerns in places like Haiti and the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war on other itineraries as examples of how instability affects cruise planning.