Emabraktion in Haifa, Israel

EMBARKATION IN HAIFA ISRAEL WHAT TO KNOW, BEFORE YOU GO! 

We recently completed a 7 night Mediterranean cruise with MSC aboard the MUSICA that was round trip from Haifa Israel. This cruise included alcohol and wifi and we had a balcony room fro a total price of just over $2000 total. 

If you want great deals on cruises and other vacations make sure to email us at Taylor@goldgellgetaways.com no cost planning assistance.  

If this is your first time sailing out of Haifa, there is definitely some stuff you need to know before setting sail or even booking your cruise.  If you have other questions about cruising or travel, you can send us an email here (link email). 

The cruise port is located about one and half hours north of Tel Aviv by train and is fairly easy to navigate.  The train station is located right at the airport and you don’t need to change trains.  Each stop is announced in Hebrew and in English.  So it’s easy to know when you’re at the right stop. 

Haifa has several stations, you’ll want to disembark at the Haifa Center Station.  This is located adjacent to the cruise port and is an easy 5 minute walk.

One of the cheapest options is going to be via train, but you can always take a taxi, bus, or private transportation.  

Haifa is a fairly large city, and others some attractions that you can take advantage like the Bahai Garden, or you may be able also to do a full-day tour like this, similar to what we did post-cruise (Post Cruise Tour.

No matter what you choose to do, plan not to be able to board the ship until at least 3 pm.  Unlike other cruises where you may be able to arrive early and wait in the terminal, this will not be an option here. If you arrive too early, they will tell you to wait until they have begun boarding for new passengers. Seating and shade are very limited at the port entrance for new passengers.

Currently, as of this post, the terminal area is under construction and will require a lot of walking for passengers to get onto the ship. Those with mobility issues should be aware that it will take you much longer to complete the check-in.

Embarkation Process

There is one elevator, and there are also golf carts to transport those with mobility issues.  

Like any other cruise line, you’ll need to present your cruise documents.  If this is your first cruise, your documents contain the necessary check-in materials, bag tags, and other important information.  These can be downloaded from your account online. 
You’ll also need to present your passport. For all US citizens, you will be required to have a passport to leave the country, so this is an expense you should add to your budget.  

After check-in, you must clear the Israeli customs agents to board.  

Boarding the MSC Musica

When boarding the MSC Musica, guests with mobility issues will be directed to a separate line where they don’t have to climb the steep gangway.  

Once onboard, MSC uses a very aggressive sales funnel that all passengers must use to access their room and the rest of the ship. This includes internet packages, spa options, excursions, and drink packages.  

You’ll need to go to your assigned safety station to check in for your assembly in case of an emergency, and you need to abandon the ship.  Your assembly station will be based on your room assignment.  

If you’ve purchased a drink package, you’ll be able to use this at all the bars around the ship and dinner.  

The buffet should be open once onboard if you’re hungry.

Embarkation day is a great time to explore the ship so you don’t feel lost later.  We always like to tour the spa and gym, know where the theater is, and find a fun place to hang out in the evenings for drinks and live entertainment. 

Are there any must-dos you have for embarkation day when you cruise?