Port of Haifa closed in 2023??

[Markanddonna]

I read on another website that the port of Haifa will be closed for renovations in 2023. Is this true?  I know they have a new owner.

[IgKh]

I don't think this is entirely accurate.

 

The current situation is that Haifa's cruise terminal was closed last May after structural issues were found. It was replaced by a temporary one built inside a nearby hangar.

 

The intention AFIAK was to make the needed repairs and re-open the permanent terminal ahead of the 2023 summer season. However given the scope of the work and the rapid increase in cruising activity, it was decided to demolish the terminal building and build a new larger terminal, capable of handling the turnaround of larger ships. The temporary terminal will continue to be in use until then.

 

There is a not related project underway of redeveloping the port's old British administration building into a museum and restaurant, but it shouldn't impact any port operations.

Edited December 10, 2022 by IgKh

[Pushka]

Trust not. We are there for an overnight. And the local reliable tpur operator who is on top of such things knows nothing about it. 

[Markanddonna]

I disembarked there last month. The Port of Haifa certainly needs remodeling or a new building.

[cruisinggranmama]

There are no excursions listed for Haifa on our September cruise. Nor does Haifa even show up in the list of ports under Shore Excursions. 

 

[Markanddonna]

We had no excursions listed for many ports on the Epic for quite a while on our easter Med cruise in November. I have heard that the tour companies are also struggling getting people back in the industry. That was wildly evident with a two day tour we took in Israel to the Golan Heights. Our driver/guide was a crusty, mean spirited, 80+ man who was the world's worst driver. It was obvious that the tour companies must be desperate if they keep him on. 

 

More ship excursions started to be added maybe 60-90 days before the cruise. I'm not sure there were any excursions at the port of Haifa which was our disembarkation port.

[ritraveler]

I am scheduled to port in Haifa in September and just this past weekend an excursion was offered for that port. Hopefully more to come soon

[mycalpal]

Royal Caribbean is going to homeport Rhapsody of the Seas at Haifa for Summer 2023. Rhapsody sails there in April.  Yet,, most of Royal’s 2024 cruises have been published, but nothing for Rhapsody returning 2024..  Wonder if terminal work could be an issue?