Photo: shutterstock Airspace Closure Affecting Cruises
Due to the security situation and the closure of Israel's airspace, many customers who planned to embark on a cruise are left with just the dream following Ben Gurion Airport's shutdown.
Since the cruises themselves are proceeding as planned due to their international nature, here are the cancellation policies of several cruise representatives in Israel:
MSC Cruises Cancellation Policy
As of yesterday (Monday), customers whose flights were canceled between June 13 and 17, 2025, and as a result could not reach their cruise embarkation dates from June 14 to 17, 2025, are allowed to postpone the cruise under the following conditions:
a. Alternative cruise dates: up to 9 months from the start date of the current cruise.
b. The same room category.
c. The same experience level.
d. The same number of nights.
e. The new cruise price is up to the maximum price paid for the original cruise (if the price is higher, the difference will be paid). In case of a lower price (cruises with a lower cash value) or non-utilization of this benefit, no financial or other credit will be given.
"For now, postponement isn't possible and we'll announce when it will be. We'll also strive to allow enough time to organize a new date," the company said. They also stated, "Due to the large number of customers, please refrain from calling and check this website for updates. We wish to get through this as quickly as possible."
Royal Caribbean Cancellation Policy
Receive a credit voucher for use within 12 months.
Costa Cruises Cancellation Policy
Any passenger canceling their cruise by June 30, inclusive, will receive credit for a future sail with the full cruise value. The credit volume will be usable on cruises departing up to November 2026.
For those wanting to cancel their bookings scheduled to leave next week, send a request by return email. Meanwhile, all bookings for this week are canceled up to June 21, inclusive.
For those whose cruises are scheduled from July onward, an update will follow according to security developments. Currently, cancellation fees adhere to the company's policy attached in this email.
"Costa Cruises sends its thoughts to the Israelis during this time and expresses its consideration," according to Med Cruises, the exclusive representative of the cruise company in Israel.
Cancellations for Cruises Sold Through Amsalem Tours and Vacations
Pazit Bar Oz, CEO of the Cruise Division at Amsalem Tours and Vacations: "As a travel company operating responsibly and transparently, we adhere to the cancellation policies of various cruise companies. We will continue to monitor developments and update our customers on any changes, hoping for calm and peaceful days for us all."
For example, NCL announced that due to the situation, starting June 13, 2025, and as long as the skies are closed, customers will receive a voucher equivalent (in dollars) to the cost of the cruise purchased. The voucher is personal to the customers and is valid for one year from issuance.
