4 common Jewish attractions on board cruise ships

Cruise ships offer an array of amenities for their guests, but Jewish travelers might also want to seek out specific activities and services out of their kosher tour. Cruise lines design their ships with a variety of passengers in mind, so there are plenty of options available.

The majority of cruise ships offer at least some kosher food options. For example, Royal Caribbean International offers a full kosher kitchen aboard all its ships; MSC Cruises has dedicated kosher kitchens on some ships; and Norwegian Cruise Line has kosher menus on select ships.

Some cruise lines have special programming for Jewish guests. For example, Crystal Cruises offers Jewish Heritage shore excursions at certain ports of call that include visits to local sites of interest as well as historical and cultural information about the region's Jewish history and traditions.

To give specific attractions onboard jewish cruises, here are the following:

Shabbat Services

Cruise lines offer Shabbat services aboard their ships. During the service, guests can sing along with the rabbi as he leads prayers and hymns in Hebrew and English. After services, cruise lines often hold a reception where guests can meet each other while enjoying light snacks and beverages.

Some cruise lines even hold Shabbat services on their private islands so that guests can enjoy this service while being surrounded by nature instead of inside of a synagogue.

Kosher Meals

Many cruise ships offer standard meals that aren't kosher, but some have special menus that allow you to stick to your dietary restrictions. Royal Caribbean offers several kosher meal options on its ships, including certified kosher meals prepared by Glatt Kosher Cruise Catering.

Cruise ships have long offered kosher meals, although many lines will only do so with advance notice. Some ships even have dedicated kosher kitchens that are certified by rabbis on land.

Torah Classes

You don't have to miss out on religious observance while you're on vacation. Some cruises even offer daily Torah classes so guests can learn more about the Jewish faith at sea.

Synagogues on board

It's best to spend a kosher holiday when you know It's easy to stay connected to your faith while sailing across the world when you have access to synagogues and other religious services right on board.

A Jewish travel agency can help you determine which ships have these facilities so that you don't miss a prayer session.