Haifa, Israel - Mediterranean Cruises

Enjoy a scenic drive to Bethlehem City and the Church of the Nativity. Considered to be the oldest, continuously operating Christian Church in the world, the Church of the Nativity was originally commissioned in 327 AD by the Byzantine Emperor Constantine and his mother Helena to commemorate the cave that is believed to be the birthplace of Jesus of Nazareth.

Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through this world-renowned Church and explain the history behind it.

The highlight of your tour will be a visit to the holy site; the ‘Grotto of the Nativity’. Narrow stairs lead to an underground cave located beneath the Church, which according to tradition enshrines the birthplace of Jesus. The very spot is marked by a 14 point silver star set into the marble floor.

Prior to departing Bethlehem, a brief shopping stop will be made for you to purchase souvenirs.

Your return journey takes you via Armon Hanatziv. Overlooking the City of Jerusalem, Armon Hanarziv provides a wonderful photograph opportunity, allowing you to capture beautiful views of the city.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The journey from Haifa to Bethlehem is approximately two hours. Due to the popularity of the Church, it can be crowded. There are approximately 20 narrow steps to access the Grotto. The queue to enter the Grotto may involve standing for a long period of time. In the event of excessive queues, the visit to the Grotto may be suspended. Bethlehem is in the Palestinian Authority therefore a local guide will join the coach at the checkpoint as Israeliś are not permitted to enter Bethlehem. Professional photography is prohibited inside the Church and Grotto. A Snack will be provided on the tour.

Megiddo is one of the most important archaeological sites in Israel dating from the time of the bible. Walk among the excavations and see the impressive remains of several civilizations. At this UNESCO World Heritage Site you will be able to visit the city gates and the ivory palace in which a treasure of ancient ivory objects and jewellery were discovered, including the richest Canaanite treasure ever. Other sites include the stables from King Ahab's time, 2900 years ago, and the waterworks that include a 82 foot deep shaft and a 230 foot tunnel that leads to the springs.

A buffet luncheon will be served at Megiddo Park, before you enjoy a stroll through the history of Jewish culture at the Beit She'arim National Park where the remains of the ancient Jewish city and the underground Jewish cemetery are revealed. Unearthed at this site are the remains of a synagogue, city walls, olive press and burial caves, which are among the most splendid in Israel. The huge City of the Dead (Necropolis) has large stone coffins (sarcophagi) with decorations and inscriptions in Hebrew, Aramaic, Palmyran and Greek.

The return drive will include the Mount Carmel Mountains, for a panoramic view of Haifa Bay and the Baha'i Temple and Gardens.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is over four hours of walking on this tour over some steps and inclines. Both sites have difficult terrain and sensible walking shoes and a head covering is required. Please bring bottled water and sun screen.

The drive from Jerusalem will take you to Jaffa Gate and a visit the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. The 12th century church is shared by several Christian denominations and steep steps lead to the 2nd level where a shrine is situated in Golgotha and Calvary.

Walk through the narrow and cobbled streets of the bazaar to the Via Dolorosa (Way of Suffering) and experience some of the Stations of the Cross. Visit the massive Western Wall which is the most sacred Jewish shrine in Jerusalem. From the plaza you can view the Temple Mount dominated by the El Asqa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock, sacred to the Muslims, before an opportunity to shop for souvenirs. A snack will be provided during the tour.

On the return drive, pause at Harmon Ha Natziv for a panoramic photograph stop.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The journey to Jerusalem is approximately two hours each way, therefore a hearty breakfast is recommended. There is over three hours of walking on this tour. A snack will be provided during the tour.

Haifa's outline is dotted with churches, mosques and synagogues and it enjoys a peaceful coexistence between the Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Druze and Baha’i communities. Visit the Stella Maris Monastery and Elijah’s Cave and stop for a panoramic view of Haifa’s bay and landmark; the beautiful Baha'i Temple surrounded by the magnificent Persian gardens built on 19 terraces with fountains and promenades.

Acre is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the world's only preserved Crusader city and port, whose existence dates back almost 5,000 years.

Visit the Crypt of St John from the times of Richard the Lion Heart with a highlight being the Knight’s Hall where religious functions were held. Return to the ship with a scenic drive around the old city walls, enjoying examples of medieval architecture.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is over two hours of walking on this tour.Please note that the tour is not suitable for guests who suffer from claustrophobia as part of the walking is through a tunnel. Please note that on some occasions Crusaders Knight’s Hall is closed due to private functions; in the event of this, alternative sites will be visited. The Stella Maris Monastery is closed on Sundays.

The luxury of spending the night in Jerusalem allows you to combine the wonders of the surrounding countryside and some of the Old City's most important sites. It also eliminates the need to make the round-trip journey in one day, thus maximising the time you have to spend in this remarkable part of the world.

DAY ONE - NAZARETH / GALILEE / JERUSALEM
Visit the Mount of Beatitudes from where Christ delivered the Sermon on the Mount. In 2000, Pope John-Paul II celebrated the Eucharist on its slope. From the terrace of the domed Catholic Church, founded in 1937, there are splendid views of the Sea of Galilee. Continue to Tabgha and the Church of the Multiplication, which is believed to occupy the site where Christ performed his miracle with two fish and five loaves.

Capernaum was the centre of Jesus's ministry in the Galilee. Take a guided walking tour to view the ruined synagogue where Christ preached before leaving for luncheon.

Nestled in a circle of cypress studded hills, Nazareth is the scene of Jesus's youth. Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation, consecrated in 1969 and the largest Christian Church in the Middle East. It is said to mark the grotto where the Archangel Gabriel appeared to the Virgin Mary.

Travel to Jerusalem and check into a leading hotel to relax before dinner. After dinner there will an optional tour of the Old City by night.

DAY TWO - BETHLEHEM / JERUSALEM
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and explore the Israel Museum that holds the Shrine of the Book presenting the Dead Sea Scrolls and the second Temple era model.

Visit the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. Bethlehem is in the Palestinian Authority and a local guide will join the coach at the check point as Israeli citizens cannot enter Bethlehem. The visit to the Church is combined with shopping in the city hosted by the local guides.

Luncheon with wine will be served in a leading Jerusalem Hotel before visiting the Garden of Gethsemane where ancient olive trees shade this enclosure on the Mount of Olives overlooking Jerusalem; it was here in this garden that Judas betrayed Christ.

The Church of All Nations was built at Gethsemane in 1924 and features interior domes decorated with mosaic symbols of the countries that contributed to its construction. Walk through Jaffa Gate and visit The Church of the Holy Sepulcher, believed to enshrine the sites of Christ's crucifixion, entombment and resurrection. The 12th century church is shared by several Christian denominations. Steep steps lead to the second level where a shrine is situated in Calvary or Golgotha.

Walk the Way of Suffering and observe some of the Stations of the Cross, through the city’s narrow and crowded cobbled streets via the bazaar. Continue towards the massive Western Wall which is part of the Temple Mount foundation erected by Herod the Great. The Wall is the most sacred Jewish shrine in Jerusalem. From the plaza you can view the Temple Mount dominated by the El Asqa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock, sacred to the Muslims.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Bookings for this tour will close 30 days prior to the tour date. There is a strict minimum and maximum participation. Children under 12 years old are not permitted to book this tour. Please ensure you book the correct tour code for the accommodation you require (double = HFA800, single = HFA801). Prices shown on your overland excursions record are per person, not per room. Once your booking is confirmed, any cancellation made will incur a 100% cancellation fee. No refunds will be given for any unused portion of the tour.

This tour has been planned taking into account special security arrangements and requirements.
Admittance into certain religious sites requires attire that covers shoulders and knees. Entrance to the Grotto in Bethlehem is not guaranteed due to time constraints. As you will be away from the ship overnight, we ask that you limit your luggage to 1 light holdall or bag per person. You will be responsible for carrying your luggage on and off the coach and in and out of your hotel. Please do not forget to include any medications and other personal requirements. The sequence of the itinerary may be altered.

The fare includes: transport by coach, sightseeing and entrance fees as described, meals as stated and hotel accommodation.
The fare does not include: items of a personal nature such as refreshments, telephone calls, laundry, gratuities, room service, fees for doctor's visits prescriptions/medication or travel insurance.

Visit Tabgha and The Church of the Multiplication which is believed to occupy the site where Christ performed his miracle with two fish and five loaves. Consecrated in 1981, the current shrine protects a beautiful 5th century Byzantine mosaic floor depicting the miracle.

Christ delivered the Sermon on the Mount from the Mount of Beatitudes and Pope John-Paul II celebrated the Eucharist on its slope on the year 2000. From the terrace of the domed Catholic Church, founded in 1937, there are splendid views of the Sea of Galilee.

Continue onto the river bank revered to be the spot where John the Baptist immersed Jesus in the waters of the River Jordan.

Enjoy a delicious luncheon before driving to Nazareth to the district of Jesus's youth. View the Basilica of the Annunciation, consecrated in 1969 and the largest Christian Church in the Middle East. It is said to mark the grotto where the Archangel Gabriel appeared to the Virgin Mary.

The return drive through the Mount Carmel Mountains will offer a panoramic view of Haifa Bay and the Bahai Temple and Gardens.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot, but has been especially designed for guests who do not want too much walking, however there is the option of up to two hours walking for those that wish to explore further. The Church of the Multiplication is closed on Sundays; St Peter’s Primacy will be viewed instead.

Drive through the Judean Hills to Jerusalem for a panoramic view of the Old City, before continuing through the Judean Desert next to Jerico passing Quamran to Masada.

Herod the Great built a fortress and palace on a tabletop mountain that towers 1450 feet above the Dead Sea. It was here that the Jewish Zealots made their courageous last stand against Roman armies during the Jewish revolt. Ascend the mountain by cable car then explore the site and view Herod’s Palace and the synagogue.

At 1276 feet below sea level, the Dead Sea is the lowest point on earth; the mineral laden water is undrinkable and supports no life. Visit a leading resort hotel on its shore and experience a classic moment for visitors to the Holy Land, the opportunity to float in the Dead Sea.

A buffet luncheon accompanied by wine will be served in the resort hotel. On the return route, travel via Arad, the largest town in the Negev Desert.


BEACH/WATER RELATED EXCURSIONS
For any excursion involving water, guests are reminded to exercise particular care. Alcohol and eating a full meal should be avoided before swimming. If buoyancy aids are provided for an activity they must be worn at all times. You should bear in mind that the sea is unpredictable. Lifeguards are unlikely to be present and there may not be a flag system to indicate whether or not it is safe to go in the water. In addition, beach activities may not be supervised or accompanied and so you should take care to satisfy yourself as to the safety of the beach and/or the sea at the time of your excursion. Please exercise caution when entering the sea as the seabed and aquatic environment is capable of springing surprises and we have not inspected the beach or seabed for its safety. Children must be supervised by you at all times near water. All activities on the beach, water and in the sea are undertaken at your own risk. You’ll need to take swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and flat shoes that can be worn in the water.

LIABILITY
Cunard will arrange for the excursions to be performed by the relevant excursion provider. Cunard does not provide or supply the excursion services. Cunard will exercise reasonable care and skill in the selection of the excursion provider, but will not in any circumstances have a greater liability than the excursion supplier and Cunard shall not be responsible for the negligent acts/omissions of the excursion supplier. Please note that in relation to all excursions Cunard is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by you unless such loss, damage or injury arises out of a breach of legal duty of Cunard.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
Before booking any activity excursions it is essential that you ensure your travel insurance extends to cover the specified activity. It is your responsibility to obtain adequate insurance.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The drive between Haifa and Masada is approximately three hours each way. Changing facilities and showers are available at the hotel. Guests are reminded to wear swimwear, take a towel and sunscreen.

Walk through Zion Gate to enter the room of the Last Supper and King David’s Tomb. This is the site of the Coenaculum, the room where Christ and the Apostles dined at the Last Supper. See the remains and reconstructed areas of The Cardo Maximus built by the Emperor Hadrian, and visit the Western or Wailing Wall, revered as the sole remnant of the 2nd Temple (destroyed by Rome in 70 AD).

Afterwards, visit the Jerusalem Archaeological Park and Davidson Centre. This impressive archaeological park, dating back some 5,000 years is Israel’s most important antiquity site. The Davidson Centre exhibits the history of the Temple Mount, and showcases the cities glorious past.

Enjoy luncheon served with wine, before visiting Calvary and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. The Church is believed to enshrine the sites of Christ’s crucifixion, entombment and resurrection. Resume your walk through the city’s narrow and cobbled streets to experience the Via Dolorosa (Way of Suffering) and observe some of the various stations of the cross.

Visit the Garden of Gethsemane where Judas betrayed Christ, before continuing onto the Church of All Nations and Rock of Agony.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The journey to Jerusalem is approximately two hours each way, so a hearty breakfast is recommended. There is over five hours of walking on this tour including some steps and cobble-stones. At the church of the Holy Sepulcher, steep steps lead to the 2nd level where a shrine is situated.

Christ delivered the Sermon on the Mount from the Mount of Beatitudes and in the year 2000, Pope John-Paul II celebrated the Eucharist on its slope. At Tabgha, visit the Church of the Multiplication, which is believed to occupy the site where Christ performed his miracle with 2 fish and 5 loaves.

Capernaum was the centre of Jesus's ministry in Galilee and a guided walking tour will uncover the ruins of the synagogue where Christ preached. Visit the bank revered by the faithful as the spot where John the Baptist immersed Jesus in the waters of the River Jordan.

Luncheon with wine will be served before travelling to Nazareth to explore the area of Jesus's youth. Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation, consecrated in 1969 and the largest Christian Church in the Middle East. It is said to mark the grotto where the Archangel Gabriel appeared to the Virgin Mary.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. In total there is over four hours of walking on this tour. The Church of the Multiplication is closed on Sundays; a visit will be made to St Peter’s Primacy instead.

Your scenic drive treats you to a panoramic view of the old city before visiting the Church of All Nations. The Church was built at Gethsemane in 1924 and features interior domes decorated with mosaic symbols of the countries that contributed to its construction; it was in this garden that Judas betrayed Christ.

The Western or Wailing Wall is part of the Temple Mount foundation erected by Herod the Great and is the most sacred Jewish shrine in Jerusalem. Continue through the Via Dolorosa, the Way of Suffering, and observe some of the Stations of the Cross. Take the route uphill through the city's narrow, cobbled streets towards Calvary and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the site of the final Stations of the Cross. The Church of the Holy Sepulcher is believed to enshrine the sites of Christ's crucifixion, entombment and resurrection.

Luncheon including wine will be served before the visit to the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. Please note this tour does not include a visit to the Grotto.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The journey to Jerusalem is approximately two hours each way, so a hearty breakfast is recommended. There is over five hours of walking on this tour including some steps and cobble-stones. Bethlehem is in the Palestinian Authority so a local guide will join the coach at the check point as Israelis are not permitted to enter Bethlehem. The visit to the Church is combined with a shopping stop in the town which is organised by the local guide.

The luxury of spending the night in Jerusalem allows you to combine the wonders of the surrounding countryside and some of the Old City's most important sites. It also eliminates the need to make the round-trip journey in one day, thus maximising the time you have to spend in this remarkable part of the world.

DAY ONE - NAZARETH / GALILEE / JERUSALEM
Visit the Mount of Beatitudes from where Christ delivered the Sermon on the Mount. In 2000, Pope John-Paul II celebrated the Eucharist on its slope. From the terrace of the domed Catholic Church, founded in 1937, there are splendid views of the Sea of Galilee. Continue to Tabgha and the Church of the Multiplication, which is believed to occupy the site where Christ performed his miracle with two fish and five loaves.

Capernaum was the centre of Jesus’ ministry in the Galilee. Take a guided walking tour to view the ruined synagogue where Christ preached before leaving for luncheon.

Nestled in a circle of cypress studded hills, Nazareth is the scene of Jesus's youth. Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation, consecrated in 1969 and the largest Christian Church in the Middle East. It is said to mark the grotto where the Archangel Gabriel appeared to the Virgin Mary. Continue your tour on the river bank revered by the faithful as the spot where John the Baptist immersed Jesus in the waters of the River Jordan.

Travel to Jerusalem and check into a leading hotel to relax before dinner. After dinner there will an optional complimentary tour of the Old City by night.

DAY TWO - BETHLEHEM / JERUSALEM
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and explore the Israel Museum that holds the Shrine of the Book presenting the Dead Sea Scrolls and the second Temple era model.

Visit the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. Bethlehem is in the Palestinian Authority and a local guide will join the coach at the check point as Israeli citizens cannot enter Bethlehem. The visit to the Church is combined with shopping in the city hosted by the local guides.

Luncheon with wine will be served in a leading Jerusalem Hotel before visiting the Garden of Gethsemane where ancient olive trees shade this enclosure on the Mount of Olives overlooking Jerusalem; it was here in this garden that Judas betrayed Christ.

The Church of All Nations was built at Gethsemane in 1924 and features interior domes decorated with mosaic symbols of the countries that contributed to its construction.

Walk through Jaffa Gate and visit The Church of the Holy Sepulcher, believed to enshrine the sites of Christ's crucifixion, entombment and resurrection. The 12th century church is shared by several Christian denominations. Steep steps lead to the second level where a shrine is situated in Calvary or Golgotha.

Walk the Via Dolorosa, the Way of Suffering and observe some of the Stations of the Cross, through the city's narrow and crowded cobbled streets via the bazaar. Continue towards the massive Western Wall which is part of the Temple Mount foundation erected by Herod the Great. The Wall is the most sacred Jewish shrine in Jerusalem. From the plaza you can view the Temple Mount dominated by the El Asqa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock, sacred to the Muslims.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Bookings for this tour will close 30 days prior to the tour date. There is a strict minimum and maximum participation. Children under 12 years old are not permitted on this tour. Please ensure you book the correct tour code for the accommodation you require (double = HFA800, single = HFA801). Prices shown on your overland excursions record are per person, not per room. Once your booking is confirmed, any cancellation made will incur a 100% cancellation fee. No refunds will be given for any unused portion of the tour.

This tour has been planned taking into account special security arrangements and requirements.
Admittance into certain religious sites requires attire that covers shoulders and knees. Entrance to the Grotto in Bethlehem is not guaranteed due to time constraints. As you will be away from the ship overnight, we ask that you limit your luggage to 1 light holdall or bag per person. You will be responsible for carrying your luggage on and off the coach and in and out of your hotel. Please do not forget to include any medications and other personal requirements. The sequence of the itinerary may be altered. The Church of the Multiplication is closed on Sundays; a visit will be made to St Peter’s Primacy instead.

The fare includes: transport by coach, sightseeing and entrance fees as described, meals as stated and hotel accommodation.
The fare does not include: items of a personal nature such as refreshments, telephone calls, laundry, gratuities, room service, fees for doctor's visits prescriptions/medication or travel insurance.

Halfway between Haifa and Tel Aviv is the site of the ancient city of Caesarea. This magnificent city was constructed more than 2,000 years ago, by one of the greatest builders of the ancient world; King Herod the Great, who dedicated it to Caesar Augustus. It was considered to be one of the most splendid cities in the area at the time, and acted as the capital of the province for almost 600 years.

Today it is an impressive Archaeological Park. During a guided tour of the site your knowledgeable guide will take you back in time, with stories of the past. Pass by the Roman Amphitheatre and the crusaders fortifications and moat, before arriving at the Hippodrome. Imagine the spectacular scene of chariot races and gladiator games being held here against the backdrop of the sea and great breakwaters. A highlight will be the remarkable Aqueduct; a sophisticated water system which supplied water to the city from a spring four miles north of Caesarea.

Complete your tour with a stop at the Visitor Centre to experience a 3D multimedia presentation displaying the developments and changes that have occurred over 2,000 years. During the presentation it will appear as if the city is being reawakened before your very eyes.

Your return journey takes you via Mt Carmel, offering a panoramic view of Haifa Bay and the magnificent Baha’i Temple and Gardens.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately three hours of walking over uneven and cobblestoned ground, therefore flat comfortable shoes are recommended. The journey from Haifa to Caesarea is approximately 45 minutes each way.

Your scenic drive to Jerusalem is on the Road of Courage, which is scattered with remains of the convoys that tried to reach Jerusalem during the War of Independence. The drive will also take you through Ein Karem the birthplace of John the Baptist.

In Jerusalem, pass through the New City with the Israel Museum and the Knesset; the Israel Parliament. For those who wish, there will be the option to visit the Menorah, before stopping for a panoramic view of the Old City from Mount of Olives.

Continue onto the Garden of Gethsemane and view the Church of All Nations with the ancient olive trees in the garden where Jesus prayed and wept and was betrayed by Judas. For those who wish, there will be the option to visit the Church.

Enjoy luncheon served with wine before visiting the Western or Wailing Wall, the most sacred Jewish shrine, with the option to leave the coach for a short walk to explore. From this plaza you’ll have a wonderful view of the Al Asqa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock, sacred Muslim sites.

There will be an opportunity to shop for some local souvenirs before driving back to the port.


The journey to Jerusalem is approximately two hours each way, so a hearty breakfast is recommended. There is approximately 45 minutes of walking involved on this tour, most of which is optional. Guests can enjoy the majority of sights from the comfort of the coach.