Eilat Israel
Israel
2
Cruises availables
At departure or passage at this port
Frequently Asked Questions
At the southern tip of Israel, on the Gulf of Aqaba. The contrast hits from the deck: bare desert mountains on one side, tinted pink and ochre depending on the hour, and on the other a deep blue sea where some of the most northerly corals on the planet thrive.
A good part of it, yes. The seafront is easily walked: the promenade links the northern beaches to the lagoon, lined with cafés, palms and kiosks. Coral Beach reserve and the observatory, to the south, need about ten minutes by taxi or bus.
A nature reserve south of town protecting just over a kilometre of shoreline where a coral reef of surprising richness clings on, given how far north it is. Walkways lead directly to the swimming zones to protect the reef.
Yes, and it is one of the easiest points of access to the Red Sea's underwater world anywhere. Mask and snorkel are enough: within the first few metres, butterflyfish, damselfish and clownfish move among the coral at Coral Beach.
The Underwater Observatory Marine Park, next to the reserve, lets you watch the reef without getting wet. A tower set in the sea descends twelve metres below the surface: through the portholes, sharks, rays, turtles and shoals pass in their own element.
Very much so. The observatory's circular aquarium, where fish swim around the visitors, delights all ages, and a glass-bottom boat completes the visit for anyone preferring to stay dry. Allow half a day to enjoy it without rushing.
The coasts of Jordan and Egypt, visible to the naked eye across the bay. Late in the day, the low light sets the Jordanian mountains ablaze directly opposite: the show is free and worth many an excursion.
The public beaches, the seafront cafés and the duty-free shops that give the town its commercial reputation. The active take to kayaks, sailing dinghies or windsurfers on water that is almost always calm.
Yes. Excursions from the pier reach the desert landscapes nearby, among sandstone canyons, erosion craters and viewpoints over four countries. The Negev unfolds a mineral palette you would never guess at from the coast.
In summer, in the middle of the day: the heat is intense. Water, hat and sunscreen are essential, and desert outings should be planned early. Outside the summer season, the relative cool of the mornings makes these excursions very pleasant.
