Snorkeling and Diving
Snorkeling and scuba diving are extremely popular activities in Eilat, and no wonder: Eilat Bay is located at the northern tip of a coral reef that extends from the equator. Here you'll find everything from beginner's courses to expert certification courses.
Aqua-Sport. For more than 50 years, this dive center has been operating PADI-certified diving courses in Eilat, as well as snorkeling and diving trips to the most magnificent sections of the reef. There are special Bubblemaker introductory courses for kids and courses ranging from a few hours to several days to help you get accreditation. Prices vary according to courses, excursions, and your experience level. Coral Beach, Rte. 90 (Eilat–Taba Rd.), South Beach, Eilat, Southern District, 88102. 08/633–4404; www.aqua-sport.com.
Manta Diving Center. Known for its incredibly supportive staff, Manta offers the full range of equipment and courses for scuba divers and snorkelers of all levels. Courses are available in English for groups or four and more. Isrotel Yam Suf Hotel, Rte. 90 (Eilat–Taba Rd.), South Beach, Eilat, Southern District, 88000. 08/633–3666; www.divemanta.com. 1-hr snorkeling from $60--$75 for up to 3 people.
Red Sea Lucky Divers. In business for decades, Eilat's only PADI Gold Palm five-star diving center offers all manner of dive courses, from two-hour introductory dives to a five-day, open-water certification course (NIS 890). Rte. 90 (Eilat–Taba Rd.), Coral Beach, Eilat, Southern District, 88000. 08/632–3466; www.luckydivers.com.
Snuba Eilat. Kids ages eight and older have fun exploring Caves Reef, one of the most popular diving spots in the Coral Beach Nature Reserve. Snuba, a snorkeling-diving hybrid, lets you breathe through tubes connected to tanks carried in an inflatable raft on the surface. The price includes instruction, a practice session, and a guided underwater tour that goes no deeper than 20 feet. Snorkels and wet suits are also available for rental. Reserve in advance. Rte. 90 (Eilat–Taba Rd.), South Beach, Eilat, Southern District, 88100. 08/637–2722; www.snuba.co.il. NIS 20.
