Essential Attire for Your Israel Cruise: 8 Key Items

Thinking about a Dinogo vacation that includes a stop in Israel? While it’s less conservative than some neighboring nations, careful wardrobe planning is crucial for your time off the ship. Here are some essential items to consider for your cruise to Israel. 

1. Bring Plenty of Layers 

Layering is essential for packing for diverse destinations, especially where cultural customs come into play. Weather can change unexpectedly; what if you pack only summer clothes but face an unanticipated cold snap? Conversely, if you only have winter gear and temperatures soar, you’ll struggle with heavy sweaters in the sun without lighter options underneath. 

Women should consider adding a lightweight sweater and scarf to their bags. This ensures you’re prepared for visits to any religious sites you might explore. 

2. Choose Lightweight Fabrics for Summer

Opt for clothing made from breathable materials. Cotton and linen are excellent options as they are both light and airy. The heat in Israel typically begins around April and lasts until October, with minimal rain expected during the summer months, so you don’t have to worry about your lightweight linens getting soaked. 

3. Bring a Raincoat or Umbrella for Winter 

If you're planning a cruise to Israel in winter, be prepared for chilly temperatures, and some areas may even experience snow. It tends to rain frequently during this season, so it’s advisable to bring a raincoat or umbrella with you off your Dinogo cruise ship to stay dry while exploring the port. 

4. Pack Modest Clothing 

In larger cities, you’ll encounter a mix of styles, but modesty remains important. If you plan to visit religious sites, it’s essential to dress appropriately. Here are some helpful guidelines: 

• For Women: Tops should cover the collarbone and extend past the elbows. Avoid wearing pants; skirts should fall below the knee. If a full-day skirt isn’t comfortable, pack a long pull-on skirt that you can easily wear over your clothes if necessary. It’s better to be prepared than to miss out on attractions because of dress code issues. 
• For Men: If you choose to wear shorts, they should be long. Pants are preferable, and sleeveless tops should be avoided.

Fortunately, Israel provides clear guidelines regarding dress codes at various sites. For instance, entry to most Jewish, Christian, and Muslim holy places, as well as the Armenian Quarter and St. James Cathedral, is denied if you don’t adhere to the specified dress codes. The dress code at the Western Wall is somewhat more lenient, but carrying a scarf and long skirt can be advantageous if issues arise. 

5. Refrain from Wearing a Keffiyeh in Jewish Areas 

A keffiyeh is a traditional headscarf worn by Arab men, typically in red and white or black and white checkered patterns. When visiting Jewish or Israeli neighborhoods, it’s best to avoid wearing one, as it may draw unwanted attention and could be perceived as threatening. While nothing may happen, you could receive some stares or even have someone alert authorities to check your ID. 

6. Choose Simple Shirts and Avoid Political or Offensive Tees 

While it may be tempting to bring along your favorite political T-shirt, it's wise to leave those at home when visiting religious countries like Israel. Additionally, steer clear of shirts featuring Arabic or Hebrew text. Playing it safe with plain shirts removes any uncertainty about appropriateness and helps avoid unintentional offense. 

7. Embrace Casual Attire 

There’s no need to pack formal clothing for Israel, as locals generally dress quite casually. Even in corporate environments, suits aren't the norm. Expect to see plenty of jeans and T-shirts, except in religious areas and neighborhoods where more modest attire is advised.

8. Don’t Forget Your Swimsuit

If you're worried about swimwear in Israel, rest assured that bathing suits are common. If your shore excursion includes water activities, be sure to pack your beach attire. A stop in Haifa offers the chance to experience the Dead Sea, followed by a visit to a national Jewish shrine. Don't forget a cover-up or sarong for the beach and a change of clothes for your next destination.

Dinogo provides various cruise itineraries that include stops in Israel. Make sure to subscribe to our email list and check our cruise deals for the latest offers.