This tour follows the life and experiences of Jesus, taking you about an hour north of Haifa to the spectacular Galilee Mountains, Nazareth, the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River:
Jordan River - Visit the bank revered by the faithful as the spot where John the Baptist immersed Jesus in the waters of the Jordan. Undergo a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual experience by having your own baptism ceremony in the river.
The Sea of Galilee – The most famous lake in the Bible.
Jesus Boat Museum – See what is believed by many to be one of the most precious and meaningful archaeological treasures in the world.
Mount of Beatitudes – Christ delivered his Sermon on the Mount from this very hill. In the year 2000, Pope John Paul II celebrated the Eucharist on its slope. There are splendid views of the Sea of Galilee from the terrace of the domed Catholic church, which was founded in 1937.
Tabgha – The Church of the Multiplication is believed to mark the site where Christ performed a miracle with two fish and five loaves. Consecrated in 1981, the current shrine protects a beautiful 5th century Byzantine mosaic floor depicting the miracle. You can also visit the Chapel of the Primacy of Peter.
Capernaum – The focal point of Jesus’ ministry in the Galilee. A guided walking tour visits the ruined synagogue where Christ once preached.
Nazareth – Nestled in a circle of cypress-studded hills, Nazareth is the setting for Jesus’ youth. Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation, consecrated in 1969, the largest Christian Church in the Middle East, which is said to mark the grotto where the archangel Gabriel appeared to the Virgin Mary. Mary's Well – the fountain at the spring where Mary drew water for the Holy Family – is nearby.
St. Joseph's Church – The traditional location for the carpentry workshop of St. Joseph.
Mount Tabor – Visit the Church of the Transfiguration, traditionally believed to be the site where the Transfiguration of Christ took place.
These tours include a traditional lunch at one of the Galilee's many hotels.
Take into account that this is a spectacular journey, but also a very busy day. The precise stops on the tour will be made based on the decisions of the tour company, tour guide, and the schedules set by the cruise ship. Occasionally there will also be time to visit the Stella Maris Monastery on top of Mount Carmel to enjoy spectacular views of the Haifa Bay and the Galilee; but on other occasions there just won't be time to cover everything on this list. What is certain, is that you'll return to the cruise ship in the evening tired yet satisfied by the experience.
If you're leaving Israel tonight, we wish you a very pleasant voyage. If you're spending the night in Haifa and still have some energy – the city of Haifa awaits you with a range of attractions… but that's in a separate part of the blog!
