About the Port
Ashdod, a modern port city on Israel's Mediterranean coast, serves primarily as the maritime gateway to some of the country's most significant destinations. While the city itself offers a growing cultural scene, its true value to travelers lies in its proximity to Jerusalem, one of the world's oldest and most revered cities, where ancient sites and living tradition exist side by side. The Dead Sea, with its mineral-rich waters and dramatic desert landscape, lies further east and is also within reach from this port.
Travelers typically use Ashdod as a starting point for full-day excursions inland, since the port itself is oriented toward transit rather than extended exploration. Comfortable walking shoes and an early start are worthwhile, as the journey to Jerusalem takes a few hours each way. Those seeking a deeper connection to biblical history and geological wonder will find this port an efficient launching point for both.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Ashdod.
Explore the Old City of Jerusalem
Walk the Western Wall, Via Dolorosa, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre within the ancient walled quarters. Allow a full day, as the drive from port runs roughly ninety minutes each way.
Float in the Dead Sea
Bob effortlessly in mineral-dense waters at the lowest point on Earth, framed by stark desert cliffs. Bring water shoes and skip shaving beforehand, since the salt stings any cut.
Visit Yad Vashem
Israel's national Holocaust memorial and museum offers a sobering, essential complement to Jerusalem's ancient sites, with exhibits that take a couple of hours to walk through thoughtfully.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Cruises That Visit Ashdod
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 29, 2027 | Regent | Seven Seas Mariner | 174 | $151,799 | |
| Jul 30, 2027 | Regent | Seven Seas Mariner | 82 | $71,099 | |
| Sep 20, 2027 | Regent | Seven Seas Mariner | 20 | $17,599 | |
| Sep 30, 2027 | Regent | Seven Seas Mariner | 10 | $10,099 | |
| Oct 11, 2027 | Holland America | Volendam | 44 | $8,359 | |
| Oct 11, 2027 | Holland America | Volendam | 47 | $8,144 | |
| Oct 23, 2028 | Crystal | Crystal Serenity | 12 | $9,000 | |
| Oct 25, 2028 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Raiya | 22 | $22,540 | |
| Nov 6, 2028 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Raiya | 10 | $8,033 |