YACHT CRUISE IN THE GULF OF EILAT
A cruise on the Red Sea is one of the must-do experiences for visitors. It can be a short boat trip with a small group of friends or even a romantic getaway for two. There are also group cruises with a stop at sea, where you can swim and snorkel directly from the boat.
During the cruise, you will enjoy informative commentary from a guide about the surrounding sights. These trips often include a delicious lunch with freshly grilled meat prepared on board. A variety of vessels are available—yachts, catamarans, and motorboats—differing in comfort level, price, and passenger capacity.
The open sea, combined with views of Aqaba in Jordan, Eilat in Israel, Taba in Egypt, and even Saudi Arabia, along with the surrounding mountains and dolphins near the coral reef, creates a truly unforgettable experience.
Guests also have the opportunity to try a jet ski directly from the yacht and enjoy the thrill of speed and sharp turns on the waves.
Most importantly, all water activities are equipped with safety measures in accordance with Israeli regulations. Relax and enjoy your vacation without any worries—everything will be taken care of for you.
CORAL ISLAND CRUISE (EGYPT) WITH LUNCH
This cruise through the Gulf of Eilat offers stunning panoramic views of four countries—Israel, Aqaba in Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt.
About 8 kilometers south of the Israeli border, already in Egyptian territory, lies Pharaoh’s Island (Gezirat Faraon), home to the reconstructed 12th-century fortress of Saladin. The island is largely made up of coral, which is why it is also known as “Coral Island.”
The cruise includes an anchoring stop for swimming and snorkeling, a visit to the island, and lunch.
For booking and to clarify border formalities, please contact our managers or representatives in Eilat in advance.
DOLPHINARIUM AND SWIMMING WITH DOLPHINS
The Dolphin Reef is a unique attraction located on the southern coast of the Gulf of Eilat and one of the most popular sites in the city. It is a place where visitors can enjoy fresh air, beautiful scenery, and a peaceful beach. In addition, guests have the opportunity to swim alongside dolphins. Visitors can observe dolphins in their natural habitat and even take photos with them. Interestingly, the first dolphins brought here in the early 1990s came from the Black Sea, transported to Eilat from Crimea.
The effect of dolphins on people—especially children—is remarkably positive. It is no coincidence that the Dolphin Reef reserve hosts rehabilitation programs for children with serious conditions, including autism, hyperactivity, and Down syndrome. Feeding and interacting with dolphins can be incredibly energizing, offering a unique emotional boost and therapeutic benefits.
At Dolphin Reef, visitors can relax on the beach or spend time at the café. You can watch the dolphins, observe their activities, and even take part in feeding them. Facilities include a seawater pool and a relaxation pool where guests can unwind while listening to music. The complex also features a souvenir shop, a bar, a children’s play area, and a photo center. For an additional fee, small groups can swim with the dolphins or enjoy a guided diving experience.
The Dolphin Reef covers an area of approximately 10,000 square meters. The living conditions for the dolphins are designed to closely resemble their natural environment, allowing them to behave as they would in the wild—hunting, playing, and interacting with one another—while giving visitors a rare opportunity to connect with these animals by swimming and diving alongside them.
DIVING
Diving (scuba diving) in Eilat is one of the main forms of active recreation. As is well known, Eilat is located on the shores of the Gulf of Eilat (Aqaba), the northernmost point of the Red Sea. Many consider this area to be one of the most beautiful underwater destinations in the world, and the climate allows for diving year-round.
The clear, прозрачная (crystal-clear) water—never dropping below 20°C in winter and reaching up to 28°C in summer—creates ideal conditions for marine life. The Red Sea is home to more than 400 species of fish and around 150 species of coral. Coral reefs lie very close to the shore and can even be observed while snorkeling.
The Gulf is surrounded by mountains on both sides, and winds are mostly from the north (from land), which means the sea is usually calm, with minimal currents. Water visibility ranges from 15 meters (occasionally in spring) up to 40 meters (typically in autumn). Air temperatures range from around 20°C in winter to over 40°C in summer. The climate is very dry, making it comfortable year-round.
The coral reef begins right at the shoreline and descends to depths of over 70 meters. The reef features the full diversity of Red Sea marine life—from tiny coral fish to whale sharks. Notably, dangerous sharks and dugongs are not found here. Thanks to active environmental protection efforts over the past 10–15 years, the Eilat reef is now in excellent condition and thriving.
Diving in Eilat offers all the advantages of Red Sea diving. There are excellent sites for beginners as well as challenging areas for experienced divers, including currents for drift diving, steep reef walls, coral gardens, and even shipwrecks. Whether you prefer спокойные погружения (relaxed dives) or more adventurous experiences, there is something for everyone. The tourist infrastructure is well developed, with a wide selection of dive clubs and services.
All dives in Eilat are conducted from the shore. Along the coastline, designated entry points are set up every 50–100 meters and marked with buoys. Entry into the water is allowed only through these marked corridors. This system not only makes entry and exit convenient but also helps protect the shallow reef from damage.
The seabed in the Eilat area slopes gradually, alternating between gentle and steeper sections. This allows divers to reach a variety of recreational depths, navigate easily, and perform safety stops over scenic shallow coral areas.
Numerous well-equipped dive centers offer beginners short training courses. For those who prefer not to use full scuba gear or even snorkeling equipment, there is an option called “snuba,” where air is supplied through a hose from a floating raft on the surface. Each pair of participants is accompanied by an instructor, and dives are limited to depths of up to 6 meters. This experience requires no prior training and is suitable for anyone who can swim.
For those interested in learning diving or advancing their skills, certified training programs are available, leading to internationally recognized certifications—from beginner levels to professional instructor qualifications. Courses are led by experienced instructors, including Russian-speaking ones.
Most importantly, all dive clubs in Eilat strictly follow safety regulations and comply with Israeli laws governing diving activities. All clubs are fully licensed, and you can be confident that your instructor is a certified professional with in-depth knowledge of local diving conditions.
However, it is important to avoid offers from private individuals promising “cheap” dives. Diving should only be booked through certified dive centers to ensure both professionalism and safety.
The company “Israel2Go” will be happy to assist you in choosing a dive club and securing special rates for recreational dives and diving courses.
UNDERWATER OBSERVATORY AND CORAL REEF
The Underwater Observatory Marine Park opened over 25 years ago and is located at the southern end of the Coral Beach Nature Reserve, about 8 km from the city center. At a depth of 6 meters, breathtaking views of the underwater world unfold through the glass walls of two observation halls. One of Eilat’s most famous underwater attractions—the “Japanese Gardens” coral reef—is found here, where countless fish of different sizes, colors, and shapes move gracefully among the corals.
The Underwater Observatory Park, established in 1975, was the first underwater complex of its kind in the world. Its creators aimed to “open a window” into the Red Sea, giving visitors the opportunity to experience its fascinating marine life up close.
After exploring the underwater world, you can relax with a cup of coffee at the upper-level café and then climb the 90 steps to the observation deck at the top of the tower. From here, you can see four countries at once: Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and, of course, Israel.
The marine park also features a reef pool, aquariums, and separate pools for sharks, rays, and sea turtles. Visitors can watch scheduled feeding sessions for fish and marine animals, as well as observe divers entering the tanks to feed the fish underwater.
The complex includes an Oceanarium—a state-of-the-art simulation theater, one of the largest of its kind in the world. Its hydraulically operated seats move in sync with the on-screen action, creating a fully immersive experience.
There are also restaurants and shops within the complex, offering unique jewelry and souvenirs. Visitors can take a ride on the “Coral 2000” glass-bottom boat for another perspective of the underwater world. In addition, the park serves as an educational and research center, attracting students and scientists from around the world. The park’s team is actively involved in coral reef restoration projects.
Visiting Eilat without seeing the Underwater Observatory is simply unthinkable!
For bookings and more information, please contact our managers or representatives in Eilat.
BANANA BOAT RIDE
One of the most popular and widely enjoyed beach attractions. The “banana” is an inflatable ride that typically accommodates between 6 and 15 people. This long, tube-like raft is towed behind a motorboat or jet ski.
When the boat picks up speed, riders are guaranteed a rush of excitement and adrenaline. You’ll glide across the water at high speed, with the wind in your ears, waves beneath you, and salty splashes on your face—while everyone laughs and shouts with excitement.
No special physical preparation is required, and people of all ages and fitness levels can enjoy the ride. Basic swimming skills are helpful but not essential, as all participants are provided with life jackets for safety.
YELLOW SUBMARINE
At the Underwater Observatory Marine Park near Eilat, there is no shortage of fascinating attractions: the observatory itself, aquariums, shark pools, and even a real coral reef. But there is something here you won’t find anywhere else in the world—a submarine that offers not just a cruise, but a true underwater dive experience.
The submarine is called “Jacqueline.” Painted bright yellow, it is more commonly known as the “Yellow Submarine.” It can accommodate up to 47 passengers. The vessel first descends to a depth of about 60 meters, then rises to around 35 meters and cruises alongside the coral reef, allowing passengers to admire the spectacular underwater world of the Red Sea through large viewing windows.
GLASS-BOTTOM BOAT RIDE
In Eilat, visitors can also enjoy excursions on glass-bottom boats. During a cruise across the Gulf of Eilat, you can admire the fascinating underwater world through large transparent viewing panels, discovering the vibrant coral reserve and the famous “Japanese Gardens,” along with a rich variety of marine life.
The boat features two viewing decks. The lower, underwater deck allows you to observe the beauty of the sea through large panoramic windows, while the upper deck is equipped with a comfortable bar offering a selection of drinks and light snacks.
The upper deck is also shaded with a sun canopy, protecting you from the warm Eilat sun and allowing you to relax in comfortable seating while enjoying the scenic views all around.
FLYING TUBE (“SOFA” / “DISC”)
This ride features a large inflatable tube with handles, towed at high speed by a motorboat. It is designed for one or two riders. Participants sit inside the tube, holding onto the handles while their legs extend freely, as they are pulled across the open water.
Experienced vacationers often call this attraction the “crazy disc”—and for good reason. As the boat accelerates, the tube bounces over the waves, sometimes quite aggressively. If the sea is choppy, riders may be thrown off into the water, which only adds to the thrill.
An adrenaline rush is guaranteed, while life jackets ensure complete safety throughout the experience.
JET SKI (WATER SCOOTER)
Riding a jet ski—also known as a water scooter or aquabike—is considered one of the most exciting and adrenaline-filled water activities. Visually similar to a motorcycle, these vehicles typically accommodate 2–4 people and are relatively easy to operate.
Jet skis are usually up to three meters long, with a load capacity of around 300 kilograms, and can reach speeds of up to 150 km/h. Depending on your preference, you can first enjoy a ride with an experienced driver and then try operating the jet ski yourself. Basic skills can be learned in just a few minutes.
That said, it’s important to remember that handling a jet ski requires the same level of caution as riding a motorcycle. Powerful models can easily reach speeds of 80 km/h or more. For safety reasons, jet skis are not allowed near the beaches of Eilat, and all rentals take place in designated areas out at sea.
WINDSURFING
Windsurfing is both a sailing sport and a popular water activity that involves controlling a lightweight board equipped with a sail. The equipment, known as a windsurf board, consists of a streamlined floating board (typically 2 to 4.7 meters long) and a sail mounted on a flexible mast.
Windsurfing is possible in a wide range of wind conditions. Experienced riders can glide over waves and perform jumps of varying сложности (difficulty).
Eilat is a favorite destination for those who have “mastered the wind” using a board and sail. Watching windsurfers from the shore, it may seem easy—but in reality, learning to control the board takes time and practice. It is generally believed that basic skills can be acquired in about ten days. Beginners are advised to start in light wind conditions.
Training in Eilat usually begins on land with an instructor, where you learn the basics before heading out to sea. Choosing a good instructor is key, and we at Israel2Go are always happy to help you find the right one.
An important safety rule is never to practice windsurfing near swimmers, as the board and mast can cause injuries, especially when handled by beginners.
Today, windsurfing is not only a spectacular sport but also a popular activity for anyone seeking an active and exciting vacation on the water.
PEDAL BOAT (CATAMARAN)
A catamaran is perhaps the most accessible and relaxing way to enjoy the water. It consists of two floating hulls connected by a frame with seating for passengers. Equipped with pedals, the boat moves entirely by your own effort, so the speed depends on how fast you pedal.
Catamarans are perfect for leisurely rides along the coastline, offering a calm and enjoyable experience on the water. As a bonus, pedaling also provides a great workout for your leg muscles.
PARAGLIDING (PARASAILING)
For those who dream of skydiving but are not quite ready to take the leap, parasailing is the perfect alternative. It involves flying under a parachute that is attached by a cable to a moving speedboat. Parasailing is one of the slowest forms of powered flight, with typical speeds ranging from 20 to 70 km/h.
If desired, the rider can be gently lowered toward the sea, touch the water with their feet, and then be lifted back up into the sky to enjoy breathtaking bird’s-eye views. This activity is very popular, but to ensure the experience remains safe and enjoyable, it’s important to understand a few key aspects of how the flights are organized.
First of all, it is recommended to use a round canopy parachute, as it is considered safer than wing-shaped alternatives. The takeoff method is also important. There are three possible ways to launch: from the shore, from a platform, or directly from a boat. The safest option is takeoff from the boat—and in Eilat, only this method is used.
The following conditions must be met:
- The boat must be suitable for towing water sports equipment, capable of reaching speeds of 50–60 km/h, with an engine power of at least 100 horsepower.
- Parasailing in Eilat takes place exclusively in open water.
- The crew must consist of at least three people—a flight supervisor, a boat driver, and an assistant—all with proper experience in organizing such activities.
- Wind direction must be favorable. Takeoff is only allowed when moving against the wind. Parasailing is not permitted in strong winds (the maximum safe wind speed is 8 m/s).
- All equipment (boat, canopy, lines, and cable) must be inspected daily to ensure maximum safety.
- Passengers must attend a mandatory safety briefing before the flight. This includes:
- an explanation of the entire flight procedure
- rules of conduct in the air
- actions in case of unexpected situations
- explanation of signals given by the flight supervisor