Haifa Port is Israel’s largest seaport and the country’s main gateway for cruise passengers. Ships dock right next to downtown Haifa, at the foot of Mount Carmel, so within minutes of leaving the terminal you can be on a train, in a taxi or in a private car.
This guide explains where the port is, what the new cruise terminal offers, how to get to Tel Aviv, Ben Gurion Airport and Jerusalem, and how to plan a shore day without watching the clock.
Haifa Port at a glance
Where Is Haifa Port?
The Port of Haifa stretches for about three kilometres along the city’s central shore, just north of the downtown quarter. A bridge connects the passenger terminal to Ha’Atzmaut Road, Haifa’s main downtown street, and Haifa Center HaShmona railway station stands right beside it.
In navigation apps, search for Haifa Port Passenger Terminal. Embarking passengers are usually dropped off at the upper level of the terminal. Cruise lines also ask guests not to arrive long before their check-in time, because seating inside is limited.
The New Haifa Cruise Terminal (2026)
Haifa Port Company opened a new cruise terminal in May 2026, just before the summer cruise season. It covers about 5,500 square metres, can receive two large cruise ships at the same time and is designed for around one million passengers a year.
Inside are separate halls for check-in, security screening and border control with 28 passport stations, plus duty-free shopping. Haifa is Israel’s turnaround cruise port, so the terminal serves passengers starting or ending a cruise here as well as those spending a port-of-call day in the city.
How to Get To and From Haifa Port
| Option | Best for | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Train | Tel Aviv and cities along the coast | Haifa Center HaShmona is next to the terminal. No trains from Friday afternoon to Saturday evening. |
| Taxi | Short rides around Haifa | Taxis wait at the railway station and on Ha’Atzmaut Road. Ask the driver to use the meter. |
| Private transfer | Airport runs, families, groups with luggage | Door to door, a vehicle sized for your group and a meeting point agreed in advance. |
| Shore excursion bus | Organised day tours | Booked through your cruise line, with a fixed programme and return time. |
On turnaround days, a private transfer is usually the simplest choice: cruise luggage goes straight into the car, and you travel directly to the airport or your hotel without changing trains.
Popular Routes From Haifa Port
- Ben Gurion Airport: 1.5 to 2 hours by car. See how to get between Ben Gurion Airport and Haifa.
- Tel Aviv: about 90 km, 1 to 1.5 hours by car. More on Tel Aviv to Haifa transfers.
- Jerusalem: about 150 km, around 1 hour 45 minutes. More on Jerusalem to Haifa transfers.
- Nazareth: about an hour by car, a popular choice for a port-of-call day.
- Caesarea: about 45 minutes south of the port, with Roman ruins by the sea.
Planning a Shore Day From Haifa
- Check the all-aboard time and plan to be back at the port at least an hour before it.
- Remember Shabbat: trains and most buses stop from Friday afternoon until Saturday evening.
- Carry your passport or the document your cruise line asks for, as you will pass border control.
- Match the vehicle to your group: a sedan for two, a minivan for families, or a minibus with driver for larger groups.
Transfers for Ship Crews
ORMAX also arranges transfers for ship crews and seafarers joining or leaving vessels in Haifa, Ashdod and Eilat, including runs to and from Ben Gurion Airport. Learn more about crew transportation in Israel.
Need a ride from Haifa Port?
Private transfers from the Haifa cruise terminal to Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and anywhere in Israel.
Haifa Port transfersHaifa Port: Frequently Asked Questions
Where do cruise ships dock in Haifa?
Cruise ships dock at the Haifa Port passenger terminal in downtown Haifa. The terminal is next to Haifa Center HaShmona railway station and connects to Ha’Atzmaut Road by a bridge.
How far is Haifa Port from Ben Gurion Airport?
The drive from Haifa Port to Ben Gurion Airport usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Allow extra time on Sunday mornings and on the eve of holidays.
Can I walk from Haifa Port into the city?
Yes. Downtown Haifa and the railway station are only a few minutes on foot from the cruise terminal. For the Baha’i Gardens on Mount Carmel or the Carmel Center, a taxi or car is easier because of the steep climb.
Is there a train from Haifa Port to Tel Aviv?
Yes. Trains leave from Haifa Center HaShmona station next to the port and reach Tel Aviv in 40 to 60 minutes. Trains do not run from Friday afternoon until Saturday evening.
How do I get from Haifa Port to Jerusalem?
Jerusalem is about 150 km from Haifa, around 1 hour 45 minutes by car. Most cruise passengers go with an organised shore excursion or a private transfer, which lets you set your own schedule and return to the ship on time.
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