Kinneret Jet Ski Driver Fined Record NIS 15,000 for Reckless Riding

The Tiberias Magistrate's Court has imposed a record fine of 15,000 shekels on a jet ski operator for speeding and dangerous maneuvers on the Kinneret (Sea of Galilee). The ruling, which became known on Sunday, September 27, marks an unprecedented penalty for violating navigation rules on the lake. According to the indictment, over several days in June, the driver operated the jet ski at speeds exceeding five knots (approximately 10 km/h) and performed risky maneuvers as close as 15 meters from the shore, near the minimum water level line. The jet ski carried a passenger, and a towable inflatable with two additional people was attached. The driver also crossed the 300-meter offshore line, accelerated, and continued erratic maneuvers, allegedly endangering both his passengers and swimmers. The court ordered the 15,000 shekel fine or, alternatively, 75 days in jail. The convicted individual also committed to refraining from similar violations for three years, with a financial guarantee of 5,000 shekels.

Erick Tal, head of the Kinneret Municipal Association's control and enforcement department, stated that violations threatening swimmers will be documented and prosecuted. He noted that enforcement rules were tightened in June, increasing the minimum distance from the water's edge for safety violations from 50 to 100 meters. Yitzhak Gavish, deputy head of the department, reported that hundreds of safety violations, including dozens of serious incidents, were encountered during the swimming season. Hundreds of fines of 730 shekels were also issued for noise disturbances on the Kinneret's shores, as official beaches are designated quiet zones, unlike open areas. Gavish believes the substantial fines are already contributing to a reduction in such violations.