The end of jet skis on the Sea of Galilee? The new law that will save bathers

The Kinneret Union of Cities is considering setting a maximum quota for motorized vessels on the Sea of Galilee, aiming to reduce congestion, enhance safety, and prevent pollution. This move comes alongside increased enforcement, which recently saw a jet ski rider fined 15,000 shekels after reckless behavior endangered swimmers. The union is working with the Kinneret Research Laboratory on real-time monitoring of vessel numbers.

The Kinneret Union of Cities is considering a significant step to maintain safety on the national lake and the quality of the Sea of Galilee's water: setting a maximum quota for motorized vessels that can be on the lake simultaneously. This move comes alongside increased enforcement of maritime offenses. Arik Tal, head of the Supervision and Enforcement Unit at the Kinneret Union of Cities, noted that every weekend, between 200 and 300 jet skis arrive at the Sea of Galilee, along with other motorized vessels. These days, the union is working together with the Kinneret Research Laboratory to monitor and sample in real time the number of vessels sailing on the lake. Based on the data collected, the union aims to set an upper limit on the number of vessels allowed to be in the water simultaneously. Meanwhile, the Tiberias Magistrate's Court recently convicted a jet ski rider and imposed a fine of 15,000 shekels as part of a plea deal, following a series of serious safety violations he committed near the shores of the Sea of Galilee. The high fine reflects the escalation in enforcement. Deputy Chief Yigal Ben-Lulu, who commanded the Tiberias station, referred to the phenomenon about a year and a half ago and called it "monstrous."