The Greek Embassy directed Israel Hayom to government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis, who declared, "The incident in Piraeus is horrific; antisemitism and every form of fascism and racism will not be accepted in Greece."

"Our nation will not permit – and this message must reach both authorities and everyone else, who generally perform excellent work – racist behaviors," Marinakis stated. "We will employ all necessary measures to ensure that in similar situations there will be protection for citizens, regardless of their origin, nationality, religion, or any other factor."

"I believe what occurred in Syros is horrific. No other words can describe it. Nevertheless, I must characterize this as a unique and isolated event, as a Greek government representative. Authorities must take every action to prevent repetition in any future instance."

Greece says NO to Israelis entering Syros: pic.twitter.com/0cjqDKgLBa

— PalMedia (@PalMediaOrg) July 22, 2025

 However, considerable numbers of Greeks on social networks expressed support for these actions.

"Regrettably, certain vocal minorities create confusion. Demonstrating or protesting about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is one matter – naturally permitted, and something about which the Greek government was first to express humanitarian and clear positions. Quite different is when democratic protest transforms into a demonstration, which, in my view, possesses fascist characteristics.

"When you target people based on their origin, nationality, or religion, you establish a fear regime. The ship captain's decision not to allow passenger disembarkation in Syros resulted from this created atmosphere of fear. Anti-racism legislation exists, and authorities must – whether police, as circumstances require, coast guard, or both – implement this law."

Did law violations occur in Syros?

"I'm not asserting illegal activities took place. Police must investigate this with the Justice Ministry regarding every real-time situation that develops. But certainly, once such circumstances arose, authorities should have enforced order somehow and guaranteed safe passenger disembarkation from every perspective."

Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis sought to convey messages not only to Israel but to international tourists. "When next considering passenger and citizen security against any other considerations, security must take priority. I repeat that we support every protest and demonstration conducted within the bounds of the law. The law is explicit."

"Naturally, demonstrating is permitted and represents both human and understandable behavior. But authorities must enforce legal requirements. If citizens require relocation, they should move to appropriate demonstration locations. If arrests become necessary because behavior violates anti-racism statutes, authorities should make arrests. Police maintain absolute societal support from the overwhelming majority. They perform outstanding work – to avoid misunderstanding – in numerous challenging cases under extremely difficult conditions repeatedly."

Has tourism or Greek-Israeli relations suffered damage?

"In my assessment, no. Understandably, such events generate concerns among citizens of affected nations. Again, Greek authorities must navigate the extremely narrow line between demonstrations and actions targeting individuals, regardless of their origin or religion. The former represents democratic activity. The latter constitutes absolute fascism. This we will not permit."

Greek social media responses to the Rhodes incident included opposition to the attacks. "Turkish-origin tourists arrived in Rhodes for vacation, sought out and attacked Israeli-origin tourists? Indeed, the Greek government and police must acknowledge the seriousness of these issues. How can Greek police permit foreign citizens of Turkish origin, Arab-Muslim background, to reach Rhodes and assault other tourists simply because they are Israeli? Obviously, we learn this from Israeli media since Greek authorities apparently attempt concealment, and again – no arrests occurred."

The post Greece scrambles to contain 'horrific' antisemitic crisis appeared first on www.israelhayom.com.

As you step aboard the vast vessel from the port of Barcelona, an overwhelming sense of luxury envelops you. Opulence unfolds, accompanied by the question of navigating this ship's seemingly endless corridors, which boasts 2,626 rooms spanning 22 decks.

Couples and families no longer have to choose between pampering and attractions. The new "MSC World Europa" from MSC Cruises elevates every vacation, offering aquatic experiences and an onboard environment that seamlessly blends grandeur, sophistication, and cutting-edge technology with diverse activities catering to all ages and interests.

After a swift check-in, you settle into a comfortable, modern room complete with a king-size bed, bathroom facilities, a television, a mini-bar, and even a spacious balcony. Throughout the voyage, there's no chance of going hungry. With six unique themed restaurants, three buffet restaurants, four main dining venues, and 20 bars and lounges on board, the culinary options are limitless.

The ship boasts seven swimming pools and 13 hot tubs, complemented by an interactive water park with virtual reality waterslides. While you might not have time to experience all the aquatic offerings, make sure to visit the water park with its interactive slides.

For families with children, the "MSC World Europa" offers seven dedicated areas, encompassing seven virtual reality stations and a diverse range of activities for infants and children up to seven years old. Additionally, the ship features a 1,153-seat theater, an innovative entertainment zone hosting live performances and parties around the clock, and a 364-square-meter shopping promenade for retail enthusiasts. 

The 104-meter outdoor promenade provides an ideal setting for a relaxing stroll while taking in the breathtaking ocean vistas. This promenade is home to live performances, activities, and an architectural marvel – a spiral slide towering 11 decks high, recognized as the longest dry slide at sea. Nearby, the 2,214-square-meter "World Galleria" offers shopping, dining, and entertainment options, adorned with a magnificent LED-lit domed ceiling overlooking the stunning scenery.

If delectable cuisine is your passion, the ship offers a vast selection of 33 restaurants, bars, and dining venues, including six exclusive restaurants and seven bars, and even a collaboration with a Michelin-starred chef. The "Teppanyaki" sushi restaurant, a Mexican taqueria, a steakhouse, and the "La Pescaderia" fish market concept are just a few of the culinary offerings. Guests can also dine at the "Chef's Garden Kitchen," developed in partnership with Chef Niklas Ekstedt, specializing in natural ingredients with a "farm-to-ocean" concept. For the first time at sea, the restaurant features a hydroponic garden and a unique dining experience with master chefs preparing Ekstedt's creations in an open kitchen with panoramic ocean views.

Award-winning brewmaster Tao Musso collaborated with the cruise line to create a range of exclusive craft beers brewed onboard. Room service is available 24/7, as is a fast food court for late-night cravings like pizza, burgers, and fries. Rounding out the culinary landscape are 20 unique bars, including a coffee bar, a tea bar with global selections, a gin bar offering over 70 varieties, a chocolate and coffee bar, a cocktail bar, a juice bar, and a champagne bar.

Entertainment is available around the clock, with live performances and endless amusements for all ages. Highlights include three concerts at the Luna Park Arena, five theatrical productions at the "World Theatre," four live shows at the Panorama Lounge, and a surprising animal exhibition throughout the ship.

The innovative Luna Park area offers movie screenings, sports activities, children's programming, and themed parties. If children accompany you on the voyage, they can enjoy bumper cars and a 766-square-meter kids' club with seven dedicated rooms for different age groups from infants to 17-year-olds, carefully designed in collaboration with LEGO and Chicco.

Each day after breakfast, guests disembark for sightseeing and shopping excursions. The itinerary includes stops in Provence, Genoa, and Naples. While most passengers choose to explore ashore, it's crucial to return on time, as the ship departs promptly as scheduled.

"MSC World Europa's" circular route allows guests to embark and disembark at any port of call, including Barcelona, Italy, or Malta.

For an elevated cruising experience, the exclusive Yacht Club offers an intimate, serene, and private atmosphere. This premium enclave features luxurious suites, 24/7 personal butler service, an exclusive private restaurant open throughout the day, a private pool, and other indulgences spanning two decks – a "ship within a ship" concept, complete with spacious, state-of-the-art grand suites.

MSC Cruises is the world's third-largest cruise line and the largest in Europe, South America, and South Africa, with a growing presence in North America and the Far East. Based in Geneva, the company's fleet comprises 22 innovative ships, with three more scheduled for launch in 2025, 2026, and 2027. MSC Cruises operates voyages in over 100 countries worldwide, visiting more than 300 destinations across five continents.

The writer was a guest of MSC Cruises.

The post Indulge in luxury at sea: An unforgettable cruising experience appeared first on www.israelhayom.com.

Israelis are using to flying abroad, but starting this May, a Mediterranean cruise will also be an option. Royal Caribbean has announced new cruise lines to the Greek Isles and Cyprus from Haifa.

Follow Israel Hayom on Facebook and Twitter

Starting March 9, bookings will be available for three-night or seven-night cruises on the company's new quantum ultra class ship, Odyssey of the Seas. The round-trip itineraries from Haifa include destinations such as Rhodes, Santorini, Mykonos and Athens, Greece and Limassol, Cyprus.

Odyssey of the Seas amenities include a SeaPlex activity center; a variety of dining options, a two-level pool deck; and a skydiving simulator, as well as a water park for children and shaded casitas and hammocks on deck.

The ship will sail from Haifa for its inaugural summer season and then depart for Fort Lauderdale in November 2021.

"We are thrilled to debut Royal Caribbean cruises from Israel with our newest and most innovative ship, Odyssey of the Seas. Israeli travelers will be looking to get away, relax with total peace of mind, and enjoy the travel experiences they are missing dearly; and that is what we do best," said Royal Caribbean CEO Michael Bayley.

"Sailing from Israel is an opportunity we have had our sights on for quite some time. We greatly appreciate the government of Israel for their collaboration and confidence in us to deliver memorable cruise experiences to their residents, and look forward to delivering on that promise aboard our newest ship – the first 'Green Island' at sea."

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that he was "proud" that Israel would be the first country to launch the company's new flagship.

"Royal Caribbean's decision to come to Israel is a significant expression of confidence in our [vaccine] policy. This is an important economic, touristic moment for the State of Israel," Netanyahu said.

"Israel is a global model of success. We will continue our program – the 'green passport' – so that we can get out of the COVID-19 virus in peace. Just as we made Israel the world champion in vaccines, we will make it the world champion in economics and tourism in the post-Corona era," the prime minister added.

 Subscribe to Israel Hayom's daily newsletter and never miss our top stories!

Royal Caribbean will be the first to offer fully-vaccinated sailings, where both crew and guests above the age of 16 will be vaccinated against COVID-19. Details on the additional health and safety measures to be implemented by Israel and Royal Caribbean will be announced at a later date.

Greek Minister of Tourism Haris Theoharis said he supported all efforts to resume cruising in Greece and the surrounding area. "We are very happy with today's announcement as our recent travel agreement with Israel is already bringing results, and more people will have the opportunity to have unique experiences in our beautiful destinations and islands," he said.

Cyprus' Tourism Minister Savvas Perdios said, "It is an honor to be featured in Royal Caribbean's itinerary this summer, and we are delighted to welcome their newest ship to our island. Cyprus supports the cruise industry and is pleased to help the industry on its road to recovery. We are certain that guests will have a great time, both on board the ship and when visiting Cyprus, one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean."

The post After COVID, perhaps a Mediterranean cruise from Haifa? appeared first on www.israelhayom.com.

In a move designed specifically to cater to the Israeli market, Nervian Cruise Line (NCL), announced the launch of a kosher meals menu.

Follow Israel Hayom on Facebook and Twitter

While most kosher meals will be available as sealed packages, large groups have the option of having their food prepared on board. To cater to religious travelers, challah and wine will be offered on Shabbat, as well as matzah on Passover.

"We are now setting a new standard in the global industry, and now kosher, rich and varied food will be part of the culinary experience we offer in all of our ships," Norwegian Cruise Line Vice President Nick Wilkinson said.

The post Norweigan Cruise Line to offer kosher meals to passengers appeared first on www.israelhayom.com.