For the first time ever, Royal Caribbean says, “Shalom, Israel”, with a brand-new innovative ship setting sail this summer from Haifa, Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: “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. Royal Caribbean’s decision to come to Israel is a significant expression of confidence in our policy.”
After a year of lockdowns, Israeli holidaymakers eagerly await the opportunity to vacation abroad, and the news of Royal Caribbean International setting sail from Israel for the first time this summer is welcome news.
The global cruise line will offer 3- to 7-night escapes, visiting the Greek Isles and Cyprus on board the highly anticipated, brand-new Odyssey of the Seas. The new sailings will go on sale on Tuesday, March 9.
The roundtrip from Haifa, Israel, will include visits to some of the beautiful isles of the Mediterranean, including Rhodes, Santorini, Mykonos and Limassol, Cyprus, as well as Athens, Greece.
Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International, said of this historic moment: “We are thrilled to debut Royal Caribbean cruises from Israel with our newest and most innovative ship, Odyssey of the Seas… Sailing from Israel is an opportunity we have had our sights on for quite some time. We greatly appreciate the government of Israel for their collaboration and confidence in us to deliver memorable cruise experiences to their residents, and look forward to delivering on that promise aboard our newest ship – the first ‘Green Island’ at sea.”
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.
Israelis will be the first guests to cruise onboard the Odyssey during its inaugural season. The innovative ship is designed to create a memorable holiday experience. Highlights on board the ship include a two-level pool deck, the SeaPlex two-level indoor and outdoor high-adrenaline activity complex, and a lineup of complimentary and specialty restaurants to suite every palate, with cuisine from around the world. The Royal Theater and Two70 will merge art and multimedia, with jaw-dropping performances found only on the Odyssey.
