Crown Iris Evacuates 1,500 Birthright Participants to Cyprus Amid Tensions

Mano Maritime’s Crown Iris cruise ship has successfully transported 1,500 Birthright Israel participants to Cyprus following heightened regional tensions between Iran and Israel that began on June 13, 2025. The evacuees, aged 18–26, departed from the Ashdod Port south of Tel Aviv on June 17, traveling under an Israeli Navy escort on a roughly 13-hour voyage to Limassol. The operation, conducted in coordination with the Ministry of Transportation and other authorities, aimed to ensure the group’s safety during a period of escalating conflict.

Coordination with Israeli Navy and Government

Israeli naval vessels accompanied the Crown Iris throughout its crossing, providing enhanced security to safeguard the 1,500 passengers. Prior to departure, Birthright Israel staff sheltered the young adults in secure zones near Tel Aviv and monitored conditions in close contact with Israeli authorities. The organization noted that the seaborne evacuation enabled a large-scale, controlled transfer at a time of mounting geopolitical uncertainty.

Official Statements from Birthright Israel and Mano Maritime

Gidi Mark, CEO of Birthright Israel, remarked, “This was a complex and emotional operation, carried out under immense pressure, and we are proud to have brought 1,500 young adults safely to Cyprus. Our team continues to work around the clock to secure solutions for the remaining participants still in Israel.” Approximately 1,300 other Birthright attendees remain in Israel, with further evacuation plans under discussion.

Mano Maritime Chairman and owner Moshe Mano also underscored the urgency of the mission, saying, “A ship-based rescue operation is being carried out under an agreement with the Ministry of Transportation. We acted as quickly as possible to implement the plan to bring Israelis home from abroad, which we view as a vital national mission during wartime.”

Continuing Repatriation Efforts

Beyond the Birthright group, Mano Maritime and the Crown Iris are facilitating repatriation journeys for thousands of stranded Israelis abroad. Two return voyages from Limassol to Ashdod are scheduled to carry about 1,800 passengers each, totaling around 3,600 travelers. The first group is set to arrive in Ashdod by Friday morning, with a second crossing planned to depart Cyprus on Saturday. A separate voyage, chartered by Bank Leumi, is slated to depart Limassol on Monday, and further sailings are pending approval from the Ministry of Transportation and Home Front Command. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has arranged four chartered flights to transport American participants from Cyprus to Tampa, expediting their return home.

Previous Cruise Ship Humanitarian Missions

The Crown Iris, which entered service in 1992 as Royal Majesty and joined Mano Maritime in 2018, is not the first cruise ship to serve a humanitarian purpose. In February 2023, Miray Cruises’ Gemini provided housing for individuals displaced by earthquakes in Turkey, while Holland America Line’s Volendam sheltered Ukrainian refugees in the Netherlands in 2022. Cruise vessels have also participated in evacuation operations in the aftermath of political unrest, such as Carnival Splendor and P&O Cruises Australia assisting stranded groups in Vanuatu in May 2024. These instances highlight the adaptability of cruise ships in rapidly responding to crisis scenarios.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why was the evacuation carried out by sea?

Authorities selected a ship-based transfer due to evolving security concerns. The controlled maritime route, accompanied by Israeli Navy escorts, allowed for a coordinated and large-scale evacuation to Cyprus.

Which agencies oversaw the evacuation?

The Israeli Navy, the Ministry of Transportation, and Birthright Israel staff collaborated with Mano Maritime to plan and implement the evacuation route and related security measures.

What arrangements have been made for American participants?

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis chartered four planes to fly U.S. participants from Cyprus to Tampa, ensuring they can more efficiently continue their journeys to their home cities.

Are more repatriation voyages planned?

Yes. Mano Maritime has scheduled multiple trips between Limassol and Ashdod to bring back thousands of Israeli citizens, with a third voyage organized by Bank Leumi set for Monday. Further sailings await official clearance.

How long does the crossing from Ashdod to Limassol take?

The journey typically lasts 13 to 14 hours. During the June 17 evacuation, the Crown Iris took about 13 hours to reach Limassol under escort.

With additional sailings in progress and airlift options for those returning to the United States, officials say they will continue to adapt their efforts based on evolving security conditions and logistical necessities.