Explore: Haifa
General Info
This is the most northern port in Israel and is a busy oil and passenger terminal. Consequently, the water and air are rather polluted. There is, however, a good secure marina here. The area’s main attractions are the religious sites on Mount Carmel.
Position: 32°49.08′ N,35° 01.29’E (fishing harbor entrance)
Clearance
See Israel Formalities for full details on clearing into and out of the country.
This is a convenient port of entry for yachtsman arriving from Turkey and Cyprus.
New arrivals are met by a Navy boat who will alert the officials and guide you to the clearance dock. Clearance takes place at the Shavit Marina and the offices are open 24/7.
The designated dock for clearance (a concrete pen) is a concrete dock set up for a small travel-lift and is a bit awkward to enter. If you speak with the marina in advance you may be able to organize clearance from your marina berth (as this is possible for outward clearance).
Clearing out is arranged after payment of dues and is relatively quick.
It’s quite possible you may be escorted to the 12NM international limit by an Israeli gunboat.
Last updated: May 2017
Docking
The Shavit Marina is situated to the north of town in the old Kishon fishing harbor. It has about 250 berths but is quite congested with local vessels. Due to its land-locked position (inside Haifa Harbour) it is considered the safest marina in Israel, although the facilities are fairly minimal.
The town is a car/taxi ride away and taxis into town are expensive (approx. 100 shekels (US$25). However, the locals are very friendly and many will offer you a lift.
There are a couple of good marine stores next to the marina and a local sailor in the marina does good value sail repairs.
Last updated: May 2017.
