In response to the ongoing regional conflict and the closure of Israeli airspace, El Al Airlines has announced an extraordinary initiative to assist stranded passengers abroad. Partnering with Mano Maritime, El Al is offering a free cruise ship return from Cyprus to Israel for its customers whose flights were canceled due to the escalating situation with Iran.
The cruise ship Crown Iris will depart from Limassol, Cyprus, on Wednesday, June 26, and is expected to arrive at the port of Ashdod on Friday, June 27. The voyage will accommodate approximately 1,500 passengers and is free of charge for El Al and Sun D’Or ticket holders affected by the flight cancellations.
“We are committed to bringing our passengers home safely and swiftly,” said an El Al spokesperson. “This cruise option ensures that even in the face of adversity, we can provide a reliable and dignified route back to Israel.”
For members of the general public seeking passage, one-way tickets are available for €550 and can be booked directly through the El Al website.
The Crown Iris will first sail from Ashdod to Limassol on Monday, June 24, carrying outbound passengers who had previously booked travel to Cyprus. El Al emphasized that passengers opting for the cruise will not be eligible for repatriation flights, and all cruise bookings are non-refundable.