Clandestine Immigration and Navy Museum, Haifa

Nearby the Bat Galim Promenade, at the foot of Mount Carmel in Haifa, lies the Clandestine Immigration and Navy Museum. This museum features many fascinating exhibits including two retired ships and a submarine. Once inside, a short video presentation presents an overview of the Israeli Navy’s history. There is also a collection of clandestine immigration and naval maps, photographs, articles, and souvenirs. Also, a database of war medal and decoration recipients is available.

At the “History of the Navy” exhibit, you’ll learn about the Battle of Tel Aviv, where the Israeli Navy’s first warship intercepted a group of Egyptian ships in 1948. You’ll read about Operation “Pirate” and the 1953 Assistance to Greek Earthquake Victims exhibit, featuring a life-size dummy dressed in a 1950s commando diving suit and weaponry. Additionally, learn about how the Israeli navy captured an Egyptian warship and turned it into the INS Haifa. You will be truly mystified by the tale of the Israeli Naval submarine INS Dakar and its disappearance in the Mediterranean Sea.

Outside, marvel at old weaponry like underwater commando boats, explosive motor boats, and the Italian, British, and Israeli naval guns, boat propellers, and anchors, until reaching the INS Mivtach. The INS Mivtach is Israel’s first missile boat launched in 1967. After several wars, the missile boat was decommissioned and transferred to the museum. Today, you can explore the inner workings of the naval vessels, complete with realistic commands on recordings in the control rooms. Climb through the narrow hatch and walk on top of the deck for panoramic views. Afterwards, the INS Gal submarine is the next incredible display.

The INS Gal Submarine and the Immigration Vessel

The INS Gal is based on the German 206A type submarine with many changes made by the Israelis, making it an advanced submarine for its time. Commissioned in 1975, the INS Gal served in several of Israel’s battles and was decommissioned when the Dolphin-class submarines were put into use. Inside the submarine, there are interesting recorded commands.

Back on the ground, the “Af Al Pi Chen” (“In Spite Of It All”) immigration vessel is on display. Under the ship is an in-depth exhibit of the Cyprus Detention Camps that were run by the British in the late 1940s. It was part of the Israeli resistance to British rule before the establishment of Israel as a country. Artifacts like household goods from the detention camps and weapons from the Hagana are preserved in the shadow of the large ship. On the ship’s boarding platform lies the WWII British tank landing craft. The landing craft was turned into a refugee transport ship. You’ll watch a video about the immigration attempts, and hear testimonials of the refugees within the ship itself.

Visiting the Clandestine Immigration and Navy Museum, Haifa

Opening Hours:

Sun – Thurs: 8:30am-4pm
Closed on Friday and Saturday

Ticket Prices:

Adult: NIS 15
Child: NIS 7.50

Purchase of ticket includes a free pass to the National Maritime Museum which expires 2 days after purchasing.

Contact Details:

204 Allenby Road, Haifa
Phone: 04-853-6249

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