Glass Bottom Boat - Israel Yam

Imagine having the chance to peer into the mysteries of the Red Sea while remaining in absolute comfort. A glass-bottom boat trip is one of the most iconic excursions offered to guests in sunny Eilat. The fleet's largest vessel, Israel Yam, is a true floating attraction, where the lower deck is fully equipped with panoramic glass windows for observing underwater life.

Glass Bottom Boat. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

While on board, you can see the famous coral reefs that Israel is so well known for and encounter hundreds of species of tropical fish without ever getting wet. The ship is equipped with everything needed for a pleasant stay: air conditioning in enclosed areas, comfortable benches by the viewing windows, and an open upper deck where you can enjoy the sea breeze in the shade of the awnings.

This excursion is ideal for families with young children, seniors, and anyone who doesn't plan on diving or snorkeling but still dreams of seeing the underwater gardens. Tours are often conducted in three languages, including Russian, making the trip not only spectacular but also educational for tourists from all over the world.

For those planning their sea adventure in advance or wishing to check the departure schedule, all the necessary contact information is provided below. It is highly recommended to book your seats during the high season to guarantee a spot aboard the largest pleasure craft in the bay.

The following table will help you contact the company representatives and find the pier on the city map:

The main highlight of this trip is immersing yourself in the visual wonders of the underwater kingdom. After descending to the lower deck, you will find yourself in front of massive glass panels that reveal exotic corals and schools of vibrant fish. The vessel's route follows the picturesque coastline toward the southern borders, passing famous coral reserves and the habitat of the Dolphin Reef, where if you are lucky, you might spot these graceful animals in their natural environment.

Beyond admiring the marine depths, the ship is designed for relaxed leisure. You can head up to the upper deck to feel the fresh breeze and admire the panoramic views of the mountains and sea, or order refreshing drinks and light snacks at the on-board bar. For those who love striking photos, it’s a great chance to snap a shot at the ship's wheel or against the backdrop of the endless blue of the Red Sea.

The crew is always ready to assist guests and ensure a positive atmosphere. Thanks to the air conditioning and shaded areas, the trip remains comfortable even on the hottest Eilat days. It is an excellent way to spend 1.5–2 hours at a relaxed pace, enjoying the beauty of nature without the need for any special swimming gear.

Finding the departure point is easy, as the boat is based in the heart of the city's tourist life — the Eilat Marina (North Promenade). If you are staying at one of the beachfront hotels, a walk to the pier along the scenic promenade (tayelet) will take no more than 10–15 minutes.

For those coming from further away, a taxi is the most convenient option; the ride from the city center or the airport takes about 5–10 minutes. Regular city buses also run toward the marina, stopping in the immediate vicinity of the shopping centers and the beach zone.

If you are arriving by private or rental car, there are parking areas near the marina, though finding a free spot on weekends can be challenging. GPS coordinates: 34.9598655, 29.5495571. Tickets can be purchased directly on-site or at hotel information desks, which often offer discount coupons.

The Gulf of Eilat, where the cruise takes place, is a unique ecosystem: it is home to the northernmost coral reef in the world. The history of such excursions began several decades ago when city authorities recognized the need to showcase the beauty of the underwater world to tourists without damaging the fragile corals. The Israel Yam vessel became the flagship of this initiative, combining the comfort of a cruise ship with the viewing capabilities of a research capsule.

Interestingly, the ship's design was specifically engineered to minimize its environmental impact. The transparent bottom is made of ultra-strong panoramic glass that withstands immense pressure while maintaining perfect clarity, allowing tourists to see the smallest details of marine life at depths of several meters.

Over the years, these boats have become an integral part of Eilat's maritime identity. They serve not only for entertainment but also for education: during the excursions, guides often speak about the importance of preserving the Red Sea's biodiversity. In this way, a simple boat ride turns into an ecological mission, helping guests appreciate the value of coral reefs.

To fully experience the marine depths through the transparent bottom, you should set aside approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. The boat trip itself usually lasts about an hour and a half; however, it is advisable to arrive at the pier 15–20 minutes before departure to board comfortably and secure the best seats on the lower deck.

This timeframe is more than enough to not only observe the coral gardens and their inhabitants but also to relax on the upper deck, take memorable photos, and visit the on-board bar. If you are traveling with children, keep in mind they might want extra time to watch the fish, making a two-hour window the optimal choice.

The excursion vessel departs daily, providing tourists with the flexibility to choose a convenient time for their trip. The pier and ticket office operating hours are from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Sunday.

While the ticket office has fixed hours, cruises run on a specific schedule that may vary slightly depending on the season and weather conditions. It is recommended to check the exact departure times on the official website or directly at the registration desk in the marina.

The North Promenade area, where your sea journey begins, is packed with interesting locations. After returning to shore, you can continue exploring the city by visiting modern entertainment centers or museums located within walking distance.

Exploring the surrounding area will help you get the most out of your holiday in this sunny region. Below are the most notable attractions located near the pier: