The Best Boat Rentals in Israel

For a private charter with a captain, expect small sailboats to start around $150–$250 per hour, mid‑size motor yachts and catamarans to run about $300–$500 per hour, and larger party boats to range from roughly $600–$900+ per hour. Half‑day outings commonly total $700–$1,500, while full‑day charters can be $1,500–$3,000+ depending on boat size, season, and route. Short shared sightseeing cruises on historic harbors (like Jaffa or Acre/Akko) can be as little as $10–$25 per person. Most captained trips include a licensed skipper, basic fuel for local cruising, standard cleaning, safety gear, a Bluetooth sound system, shade, swim ladder, and often a cooler with ice and bottled water. Add‑ons such as premium catering, beer/wine, fishing tackle, float mats, towels, longer routes, or extra fuel are usually optional and priced separately on the listing.

You’ll find classic monohull sailboats for relaxed coastal cruising, modern sailing catamarans for stable group outings, sleek motor yachts for faster hops and celebrations, RIBs and other powerboats for quick sightseeing or swim stops, fishing boats with local tackle and know‑how, and licensed passenger “party boats” that host bigger groups with shaded decks and sound systems. Choose the boat type based on your group size, comfort with motion at sea, and how you want to spend time—sailing quietly, anchoring to swim, or covering more coastline at speed.

Booking with a captain is the easiest route for most travelers—no license needed and the local skipper handles navigation, safety, and docking. If you want to self‑operate (bareboat), Israel requires an appropriate skipper license; many operators will accept an Israeli “skipper” license or recognized international proof of competence (such as an ICC/RYA‑type credential) along with recent experience. Requirements vary by boat and owner, and some still prefer or require a local captain even if you’re licensed. If you’re unsure, select a captained charter or message the owner with your credentials before booking.

On the Mediterranean, common departure points include Herzliya Marina next to the Arena complex, Tel Aviv Marina between Gordon and Hilton beaches, and the Old Jaffa Port for skyline cruises. Farther north, Haifa’s Kishon Marina serves bay and coastline routes, and boats also operate from Acre (Akko). In the south, Eilat Marina on the Red Sea is the launch point for reef and beach days. For freshwater experiences, boats on the Sea of Galilee typically depart from Tiberias and nearby piers.

A Tel Aviv or Jaffa cruise takes in the city’s beachfront skyline, Old Jaffa’s stone walls and lighthouse, and Andromeda Rock just offshore. From Herzliya, you’ll pass rugged cliffs and the Crusader fortress above Apollonia. Northbound itineraries can showcase Caesarea’s shoreline and aqueduct beaches, Haifa’s sweeping bay with views toward the Bahá’í Gardens on Mount Carmel, and the sea walls of Acre. In Eilat, expect coral‑blue water with views of desert mountains and calm bays ideal for snorkeling. On the Sea of Galilee, you’ll glide by Tiberias and biblical landscapes backed by the Golan slopes.

Yes—families are welcome, and licensed charter boats carry life jackets for every passenger, with child‑sized vests available. Captains will brief everyone on safe seating, swimming rules, and ladder use. For the best fit, tell your captain the ages and approximate weights of kids in advance. Infants and toddlers can join many private charters, but calm‑water morning trips are recommended. If you plan to swim, bring sun protection and a change of clothes for little ones.

Most private charters allow you to bring snacks, picnic platters, or catered meals, and many skippers can recommend kosher‑friendly options. Coolers are common; some boats have fridges and a BBQ. Beer and wine are usually fine for adults of legal drinking age (18 in Israel). To keep decks clean and safe, many crews ask that you avoid red wine and glass where possible—use cans or plastic, and confirm any restrictions with your captain.

Small, well‑behaved dogs are often welcome on private charters at the captain’s discretion. Always ask in advance, bring a leash, and plan a non‑slip mat or towel for your pet’s comfort. For reef areas and nature reserves (especially around Eilat), operators may restrict pets to protect sensitive environments.

Summer on the Mediterranean is dry and warm with a regular afternoon sea breeze; mornings are typically calmer for swimming and cruising, while sunset trips bring cooler air and great light. Winter brings occasional rain and swell that can prompt captains to reschedule. The Sea of Galilee can see sudden winds, especially later in the day, and Eilat on the Red Sea is generally calm and boating‑friendly most of the year. If a captain deems conditions unsafe, they’ll offer to move your time or date; refunds and reschedules otherwise follow the cancellation policy posted on each Getmyboat listing, so be sure to review it before you book.

Absolutely. Boats in Israel host everything from proposals and anniversary toasts to birthdays, team events, and bachelor/ette cruises. Tell your captain the occasion, guest count, playlist vibe, and if you want light décor or a cake on board. Many yachts have shaded seating, swim stops, and easy catering add‑ons; larger licensed vessels handle bigger groups comfortably with extra deck space and powerful sound systems.

Peak boating season on the Mediterranean runs roughly April through October, with July–September the busiest. Eilat is popular year‑round, especially October–May when temperatures are milder. Local school breaks and holidays such as Passover (spring), Shavuot (late spring), and Sukkot (early fall) drive demand, as do big summer weekends. If you’re planning travel from the United States, boats also book up around long U.S. holiday weekends like Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day, even though they’re not Israeli holidays. Weekdays generally have the best availability and pricing, mornings are usually calmer than afternoons, and sunsets are prized for photos. In late June to early August along the Med, jellyfish can appear near beaches; boats can still cruise and often anchor in clearer spots, but check with your captain if swimming is a priority.

For stress‑free planning, a captained charter is hard to beat—the skipper manages route, docking, and safety so you can focus on guests and timing. Go bareboat only if you have a qualifying skipper license accepted by the owner, recent local‑style experience, and comfort with Med‑mooring and changing winds. If you’re comparing options, message the owner with your preferred date, guest count, and any license details; they’ll advise the simplest setup for your group and budget.

Plan to meet at the marina gate 10–15 minutes before departure. In the Tel Aviv area, that’s typically Tel Aviv Marina between Gordon and Hilton beaches or Herzliya Marina by the Arena complex. Old Jaffa Port is a scenic meeting point for short skyline cruises. Up north, Haifa’s Kishon Marina and Acre’s old harbor are common; in the south, head to Eilat Marina near the hotel zone and Ice Mall. For the Sea of Galilee, most operators meet at Tiberias piers. Parking can fill on sunny Fridays and Saturdays—rideshare or light rail/bus can save time near city marinas.

Two standouts are easy to add to an itinerary. In Eilat, Red Sea trips combine cruising with reef snorkeling in clear, warm water, with chances to spot dolphins near their protected area from a respectful distance. In the north, the Sea of Galilee offers serene heritage cruises with music and storytelling, surrounded by hills and historic lakeside sites. Ask your captain about swim‑stop coves, snorkel gear availability, and the calmest time of day for your group.