Ein Gev Wall - Israel Diving
Site Overview
Ein Gev Wall is a unique freshwater dive site in the Sea of Galilee offering basalt cliff wall dropping to twelve metres with catfish shelters and cichlid territories among the volcanic rock formations. Located in the historic Kinneret lake, the site provides a remarkable contrast to Israel's Mediterranean and Red Sea diving with its freshwater environment and biblical-era archaeological context. The Sea of Galilee sits at approximately two hundred metres below sea level and is surrounded by hills of deep religious and historical significance. Freshwater diving here combines exploration of natural lake features with submerged archaeological structures dating back thousands of years. The lake supports diverse freshwater fish communities including the famous St. Peter's fish that has sustained local fishing communities for millennia. Ein Gev Wall features a dramatic basalt cliff wall on the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee near Kibbutz Ein Gev. The volcanic rock formations create numerous crevices and shelters that European catfish use as daytime retreats. Various cichlid species establish territories along the wall face creating interesting behavioural observation opportunities. The wall drops to approximately twelve metres providing the deepest accessible diving in the Sea of Galilee. The basalt geology reflects the volcanic history of the Jordan Rift Valley. Diving in the Sea of Galilee offers a completely different experience from coastal Israeli diving with its freshwater ecology, archaeological heritage, and spiritual significance. The lake conditions vary seasonally with spring and autumn providing the clearest water while summer brings warmer temperatures and potential algal blooms. Local dive operators provide specialised freshwater equipment and experienced guides familiar with the unique conditions. The surrounding area offers profound historical and religious tourism opportunities making diving here part of a broader cultural experience. Water temperatures range from sixteen degrees in winter to thirty degrees in summer providing comfortable diving conditions for most of the year. The shallow average depth of the lake makes it accessible to divers of all certification levels.
Dive Briefing
"Ein Gev Wall dive begins with entry from the shore at designated access points around the Sea of Galilee. Descend to the lake bottom where you explore basalt cliff wall dropping to twelve metres with catfish shelters and cichlid territories among the volcanic rock formations. The freshwater environment supports unique ecological communities with endemic cichlid species and ancient lake fauna observed throughout the dive. Visibility in freshwater conditions is typically five to twelve metres depending on season and recent weather conditions. The lake bottom features a mix of rocky substrate, sandy areas, and submerged archaeological structures that require careful navigation. Freshwater diving requires slightly different buoyancy technique than saltwater due to reduced density so adjust your weighting accordingly. The absence of marine currents means navigation is straightforward but wind-driven surface conditions can affect the upper water column. Monitor your depth carefully as the lake is relatively shallow and thermoclines can create distinct temperature layers. Safety stop at three to five metres for three minutes. The freshwater environment is gentle on equipment but rinse gear thoroughly after diving."
Signature Marine Life
European catfish
Silurus glanis
Best: March, April, May
St. Peter's fish (Mango tilapia)
Sarotherodon galilaeus
Best: April, May, June
Barbel
Luciobarbus longiceps
Best: April, May, June
Blue tilapia
Oreochromis aureus
Best: April, May, June
Tristramella cichlid
Tristramella sacra
Best: May, June, July
Safety & Hazards
- Limited freshwater visibility due to algal blooms particularly during warm summer months
- Submerged archaeological structures with sharp edges requiring careful navigation
- Variable lake conditions with sudden wind-driven waves affecting surface entries and exits
- Freshwater fishing line and abandoned net entanglement risk near ancient harbour areas
- Limited dive infrastructure and emergency services compared to coastal diving operations
Traveler Notes
Who is this for?
Ein Gev Wall is ideal for intermediate divers seeking deeper freshwater wall diving with volcanic geology interest seeking a distinctive freshwater diving experience in one of the world's most historically significant bodies of water. The site offers accessible depths and calm conditions suitable for divers of various certification levels with the added dimension of submerged archaeological features. Underwater photographers will find unique freshwater species and archaeological subjects against the backdrop of biblical-era history. The Sea of Galilee provides a meaningful complement to Israel's coastal diving with its combination of natural beauty, ecological interest, and profound cultural significance. Families and couples appreciate the calm lake environment and the surrounding area's rich tourism infrastructure.
Quick Stats
Dive Logistics
- Galilee Dive Center
- Sea of Galilee Diving Club
- Tiberias Water Sports
- Kinneret Dive Adventures
Photography Info
Best for: wide_angle, macro
Nearby Stay
The Scots Hotel
Tiberias • 5km away
Leonardo Plaza Tiberias
Tiberias Promenade • 5km away