Luna Gal Water Amusement Park -- Coming around the northern end of the lake, you reach a junction from which Highway 87 heads into the new capital of the Golan Heights, the town of Qasrin. Where the Jordan River enters the lake, we come to Luna Gal (tel. 04/673-1750), on the eastern shore, one of the largest water parks in Israel. It offers a variety of activities including waterskiing, pedal boats, kayak tours of the Jordan River, sailboarding, water parachuting, and more. There is an entrance fee of NIS 45 ($10) and activities cost extra, but the price is worth it, especially for kids. Luna Gal is open Saturday through Thursday from 9:30am to midnight, Friday 9:30am to 5pm, April to October. From Tiberias, you can take bus no. 22.
Hof Zemach Water Amusement Park -- Near Kibbutz Degania, there's another water amusement park called Hof Zemach (tel. 04/675-2440). The carnival atmosphere includes a beach, sunbathing areas, grassy picnic grounds, a buffet, and watersports equipment rentals. Like Luna Gal, Hof Zemach is open only in season; check with the tourism office in Tiberias for current information.
The Grand Old Man of the Lake -- Ein Gev's patriarch fisherman, Mendl Nun, an expert on Lake Kinneret's nature, archaeology, and fishing traditions, has recently founded the Anchor Museum, a museum of the lake's nautical history, at Ein Gev. Those interested in the ethereal Sea of Galilee, both in modern and ancient times, should pick up his book, The Sea of Galilee and Its Fisherman in New Testament Times. Mr. Nun's writing is filled with real feeling for the place he has made his home for more than half a century. This and his other books about the Sea of Galilee are available at Kibbutz Ein Gev's gift shop beside the Ein Gev Restaurant in Kibbutz Ein Gev.
River Jordan Baptismal Spot -- Kibbutz Kinneret, just west of Degania, has established a spot where Christian pilgrims can immerse themselves in the waters of Jordan in safety and tranquillity. The Baptismal Spot, called Yardenit (tel. 04/675-9111), is 180m (600 ft.) west of the lakeshore highway (follow the signs). The river seems to flow peacefully, but its currents can be dangerous, so no swimming is allowed. The area set aside for baptisms is sheltered and there are guide railings leading into the water. Snack and souvenir stands provide refreshment and sustenance (no charge for the baptismal dip). A special lift has been installed to enable visitors with disabilities to enter the water with a minimum amount of difficulty. It's open Saturday to Thursday 8am to 6pm; Friday 8am to 5pm; the last baptismal is 1 hour before closing.
