ABSTRACT
The nautical dimension of ancient Israel is attested in biblical verses which indicate that three Hebrew tribes were engaged in pre-monarchic maritime commerce. From the time of King Solomon, the Hebrews took advantage of the unique geopolitical situation of their kingdom as a land and sea bridge. By forming a durable alliance with their famed seafaring neighbours at Tyre, the Israelites engaged in long-distance nautical enterprises on both the Mediterranean and the Red Sea, operating their fleets from the harbours of Dor, Mikhmoret, Tell Qasile and the Coral Island. Several types of Judaean merchantmen are represented on ancient seals and graffiti, while the biblical narratives mention about a dozen types of ships and boats. The Phoenician-Israelite joint maritime ventures also resulted in the establishment of Hebrew communities in various Mediterranean outposts founded by their Phoenician partners.
