Imagine yourself diving in warm, blue water, surrounded by magnificent marine life, including colorful fish and even friendly sea turtles, exploring amazing wrecks at depths that are easy to access and offer the opportunity for a relaxed and completely pleasant experience. This is Mediterranean wreck diving at its finest, and while there are many wrecks to explore throughout the Mediterranean Sea, some of the most interesting are located just off Israel’s shore. Let’s take a look at five of the best; all different from one another, and each fantastic in its own right.
Turkish Shipwreck
Just under a kilometer from the shore of Nahariya, beneath only nine meters of water, divers can enjoy a leisurely exploration of a Turkish ship which was lost after losing power in the 1980’s. While everyone from the ship made it to shore, the vessel itself was swept onto the rocks and could not be saved. As the huge wreck posed a threat to boat traffic, it was dynamited shortly after sinking in order to prevent further accidents from occurring. Today, the wreck lies broken, and is mainly interesting for its marine life, including lots of nudibranchs and crustaceans, bream, wrasse, and other fish. An excellent site for all divers, the wreck is ideal for macro photography.
The Markab
An ancient Lebanese merchant ship which was probably making its way to the old Achziv port near the cave, this wreck is scattered over a wide, shallow area and is fun for all divers to explore. Located within the confines of the Rosh HaNikra Marine Nature Reserve, the Markab is home to a wealth of crustaceans and other small creatures, plus you’ll find plenty of fish as you explore. The ship’s timbers have mostly rotted away; you’ll find ancient amphorae which became one with the rocks long ago, along with a few pottery shards that now shelter octopus and little crabs. Touching or taking anything is strictly forbidden.
Kidon
Located about three kilometers offshore, beneath 26 meters of water, the wreck of the Israeli Naval Ship Kidon is part of the memorial site to twelve IDF Seals who were killed in Lebanon. Nearby, a sunken monument containing twelve empty chairs, each with the name of one of the heroes on it, rests on the ocean floor. A wonderful place to encounter schooling fish and find the occasional moray eel or stingray, the site is suitable for experienced divers only. Onshore, in the southern area of Shavei-Zion Beach, you can view an additional monument to the fallen Seals.
Eitana
Deployed as an artificial reef on March 13th of 1996, the Eitana was a hard working civil tugboat that worked Haifa Harbor for many years. Lying on her side thirty meters beneath the surface, the old tug is slowly gaining a coat of sponge and coral. Be careful as you explore, since the seabed here is silty and visibility is easily compromised by careless finning, and watch for the many fish that are attracted to the wreck as you explore.
Scire
An Italian submarine dating back to WWII, the Scire was sunk by a British torpedo in an attack that took place during the summer of 1942. Discovered in 1984 during an archaeological survey of Haifa Bay, the submarine was salvaged, with some parts being sent to Italy for use in a memorial to the sailors who were lost in the sinking. Lying beneath 33 meters of water, the Scire is only accessible to experienced divers, and is home to a wealth of marine life. A ghostly and incredible subject for underwater photography, this wreck is simply amazing.
While you can dive Israel’s Mediterranean Sea year-round, the best time to visit is during Autumn, Winter, or Spring, when visibility is at its best. Dive operators are well equipped, offering trips to these wrecks as well as historical sites and scenic dive sites. Be sure to prepare in advance and be sure to check on local regulations before you visit Israel; with careful planning, you are certain to enjoy a fantastic and memorable holiday.