אתר צלילה -סטי"ל (24 מטר)

Eilat, IL

אתר צלילה -סטי"ל (24 מטר)
אתר צלילה -סטי"ל (24 מטר)
Location
Eilat, IL
Category
iconic bucket list
Coordinates
29.5145068, 34.9270007
Best time
Morning or early afternoon
Weather tip
Check the local forecast before visiting.

Overview

The Sufa Missile Boat (Stil) wreck is one of Israel's most iconic underwater attractions, located off the coast of Eilat. Resting at a depth of approximately 24 meters, this former Israeli Navy vessel was intentionally scuttled in 1994 to serve as an artificial reef. Today, it stands as a premier destination for divers seeking to explore a piece of maritime history transformed by marine life. Visitors can expect to navigate through the ship's bridge, engine room, and deck, which have been colonized by soft corals, sponges, and diverse schools of Red Sea fish. As you plan your itinerary, this site is a highlight among the many places to visit in Eilat, offering a unique blend of naval history and natural beauty. Whether you are an experienced diver or looking for challenging trip ideas, the Sufa provides an accessible yet thrilling wreck dive. The site is best enjoyed during the morning or early afternoon when sunlight penetrates the water, illuminating the structure. Always check local weather conditions and current diving regulations before heading out to ensure a safe and memorable experience in one of the most popular attractions in the area.

General information

The Sufa Missile Boat (Stil) wreck is one of Israel's most iconic underwater attractions, located off the coast of Eilat. Resting at a depth of approximately 24 meters, this former Israeli Navy vessel was intentionally scuttled in 1994 to serve as an artificial reef. Today, it stands as a premier destination for divers seeking to explore a piece of maritime history transformed by marine life. Visitors can expect to navigate through the ship's bridge, engine room, and deck, which have been colonized by soft corals, sponges, and diverse schools of Red Sea fish. As you plan your itinerary, this site is a highlight among the many places to visit in Eilat, offering a unique blend of naval history and natural beauty. Whether you are an experienced diver or looking for challenging trip ideas, the Sufa provides an accessible yet thrilling wreck dive. The site is best enjoyed during the morning or early afternoon when sunlight penetrates the water, illuminating the structure. Always check local weather conditions and current diving regulations before heading out to ensure a safe and memorable experience in one of the most popular attractions in the area.

Did you know

  • The 'Stil' (Missile Boat) was scuttled in 1994 specifically to create an artificial reef.
  • The wreck sits upright on the sandy seabed at a depth of 24 meters.
  • The site is a major hub for marine biodiversity, attracting species like Lionfish and glassfish.

History

The vessel, known as the 'Sufa' (Storm), served in the Israeli Navy as a Sa'ar-class missile boat. After its decommissioning, the ship was donated to the Eilat diving community. In 1994, it was prepared for sinking to serve as an artificial reef, a common environmental practice to alleviate pressure on natural coral reefs. It was carefully positioned on the seabed, where it has since become a permanent fixture of Eilat's underwater landscape, slowly evolving from a naval combat vessel into a thriving marine habitat.

Cultural significance

The Sufa wreck holds significant cultural value as a symbol of Israel's naval heritage. By repurposing a retired military vessel into a site for recreation and environmental conservation, the project highlights the dual focus of Eilat’s maritime community on both historical preservation and ecological stewardship. It serves as a living museum, where the transition from a tool of defense to a sanctuary for marine life is visible, drawing divers from all over the world to engage with both the history and the biology of the Red Sea.

Geography and landscape

The Sufa wreck is located in the northern Gulf of Eilat (Aqaba). The seabed in this area consists primarily of sand and silt, which provides a stark contrast to the metal structure of the ship. The site is situated at a depth of 24 meters, making it accessible to divers with an Advanced Open Water certification. The surrounding area is characterized by clear, warm waters typical of the Red Sea, which support the growth of various coral species on the ship's hull and superstructure.

More facts

  • Imported from OSM batch

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