Eilat: 2-Hour Glass-Bottom Boat Tour — A Clear View of the Red Sea’s Underwater World

If you’re visiting Eilat and craving a glimpse into its vibrant marine ecosystem without getting wet, the Glass-Bottom Boat Tour offers an appealing way to do just that. This experience promises a relaxing two-hour cruise around the Gulf of Aqaba, highlighting the colorful underwater scene that makes this part of the Red Sea so special.

While some travelers love its simplicity and scenic vantage points, others have found the tour a bit lacking in organization or language clarity. What we do know is that this tour is best suited for those who enjoy mellow boat rides, underwater views, and a bit of local sightseeing — all at an affordable price.

We particularly like the unique perspective offered by the lower deck, the opportunity to spot marine life without snorkeling, and the chance to learn a bit about the local geography from the captain’s commentary. That said, a potential drawback is that the tour’s language and music aren’t always in English, which might limit the experience for some visitors. Overall, it’s an experience that appeals to families, casual travelers, and anyone keen to see the Red Sea’s underwater beauty without the fuss of diving or snorkeling.

Key Points

  • Unique underwater views from the boat’s lower deck
  • Affordable price point at $22 per person
  • Informative commentary about local sights like Eilat Coral Reserve and Jordan border
  • Limited food options, as no food or drinks are included
  • Language inconsistency noted in some reviews, especially regarding English speaking
  • Relaxed, scenic cruise ideal for casual sightseeing and marine life spotting
You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Glass-Bottom Boat Experience

Eilat: 2-Hour Glass-Bottom Boat Tour - An In-Depth Look at the Glass-Bottom Boat Experience

The Departure Point and Ease of Access

The tour departs from Hananya Beach, with the boat identifiable as the ‘Jules Verne’ vessel. This central location makes it fairly straightforward to reach, whether you’re coming from a hotel nearby or exploring Eilat’s waterfront. The meeting point is right on the beach, so you won’t need complicated transportation arrangements.

The Boat: Comfort and Design

The vessel itself is a three-deck ship, with a notable feature being the lower deck situated 2 meters underwater. This design maximizes viewing potential, presenting a semi-submarine feel without the need to snorkel or dive. The upper sun deck provides open-air seating, perfect for those who want to soak up the sun or snap photos of the coastline.

Passengers can expect shaded seating and a snack bar, which are appreciated features during warmer months. While food and drinks are not included, the snack bar allows quick refreshments, making the trip a comfortable, low-key outing.

The Route and Sights

The cruise takes around two hours, providing plenty of time to relax and observe. The captain offers commentary in both Hebrew and English, although, as some reviews indicate, language can sometimes be inconsistent. For example, a traveler mentioned, “It was advertised as an English-speaking tour, but it was in Hebrew,” highlighting the importance of clarifying expectations beforehand.

Throughout the journey, you’ll see notable sights such as the Eilat Coral Reserve, which is renowned for its vibrant coral formations and diverse marine life. Other points of interest include the military port, which adds a touch of local geopolitics, and the Jordan border, visible from the boat, offering a reminder of the region’s complex geography.

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Underwater Panorama: What You’ll See

The real draw of this tour is the visual access to underwater life. The lower deck’s windows reveal a lively scene of fish, coral, and sometimes even larger marine creatures. Reviewers have appreciated the clarity of the views, with many noting they could see a variety of fish species and vibrant coral formations.

While you’re not snorkeling, the semi-submarine nature of the lower deck offers a surprisingly immersive experience. One traveler commented, “We loved the way you could see the underwater world without the hassle of diving.”

The Experience: Atmosphere and Commentary

The overall atmosphere is laid-back, with most guests enjoying the gentle cruise and scenic views. The captain’s commentary adds context, although some reviews mention that it’s not always in English or may lack depth. One traveler noted, “The guide’s commentary was in Hebrew, which was fine for me but not for everyone.”

Music during the trip has received mixed feedback, with some finding it unsuitable or poorly curated. If music or language is a concern, it might be worth asking about the crew’s language options before booking.

Review Insights and Authentic Traveler Experiences

In our research, we found a spectrum of opinions. One traveler rated their experience 2 out of 5, citing “horrible music” and the tour not being in English, which might be frustrating for visitors expecting a fully bilingual experience. Conversely, others praised the company of fellow travelers and the relaxing nature of the cruise, with comments like, “It was a pretty good experience, and we enjoyed the company.”

Despite some mixed reviews, the $22 ticket offers a lot of value for those looking for a gentle, scenic trip with underwater views. It’s not a high-adrenaline adventure but rather a calming way to enjoy Eilat’s natural beauty.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Eilat: 2-Hour Glass-Bottom Boat Tour - Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for families with children, elderly travelers, or anyone who prefers a low-impact, scenic experience. It’s also a good choice for those who want a quick, affordable glimpse of the Red Sea’s marine life without the need for snorkel gear or diving certifications.

However, travelers expecting a fully narrated, multilingual experience might want to prepare for some limitations. If language barriers could be an issue, bringing a translation app or simply being aware of the potential for Hebrew commentary can help manage expectations.

Practical Details and What to Bring

Eilat: 2-Hour Glass-Bottom Boat Tour - Practical Details and What to Bring

Timing: The tour lasts about two hours, so plan accordingly, especially if you’re tight on time or have other activities scheduled.

Pricing: At $22 per person, it’s quite budget-friendly, especially considering the views and experience offered.

Included: The cruise itself is the only included element; food and drinks are not provided, so bring snacks or water if needed.

Booking & Cancellation: You can reserve your spot and pay later, with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Language: The commentary is in Hebrew and English, but as noted, language can sometimes be inconsistent.

Restrictions: Unaccompanied minors are not permitted, which is worth noting for families or solo travelers.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Eilat: 2-Hour Glass-Bottom Boat Tour - Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This $22 glass-bottom boat tour in Eilat offers a straightforward, relaxed way to enjoy the Red Sea’s underwater scenery. While it may not satisfy those seeking detailed narration or multilingual guides, its affordable price, scenic views, and unique perspective from beneath the waves make it a worthwhile choice for many.

The experience’s charm lies in its simplicity—an easygoing cruise that provides a glimpse of marine life and local sights like the Jordan border and Eilat Coral Reserve. The lower deck, with its semi-submarine viewing, creates a surprisingly intimate window into the underwater world, especially for families or travelers who prefer a gentle sightseeing experience.

If you’re after a calm, scenic, and affordable way to observe the Red Sea’s vibrant ecosystems without diving gear or snorkels, this tour is worth considering. Just keep in mind the potential language hiccups and lack of food, and you’ll be set for a pleasant day on the water.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for children, especially since it’s a relaxing, non-strenuous activity. However, unaccompanied minors are not allowed.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts around two hours, providing enough time to enjoy the scenery and marine views without feeling rushed.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. There is a snack bar available onboard, but bringing your own snacks might be a good idea.

Can I see marine life clearly from the lower deck?
Yes, the lower deck is designed for optimal viewing, and many travelers have noted that they can see a variety of fish and coral through the windows.

What languages are used during the commentary?
Commentary is offered in Hebrew and English, but some reviews mention that it’s sometimes not consistently in English.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Absolutely. Since you won’t be in the water yourself, the tour is perfect for non-swimmers or those who prefer observing from the boat.

Do I need to book in advance?
Booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons. You can book and pay later, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours ahead.

To sum it up, the Eilat 2-Hour Glass-Bottom Boat Tour provides an affordable, scenic peek into the underwater world of the Red Sea. It’s best suited for those who enjoy gentle boat rides, are curious about marine life, and appreciate stunning coastal views. If you’re looking for a laid-back activity with the bonus of underwater sights, this tour might just fit the bill.

You can check availability for your dates here: