Northern Cyprus Brief

Northern Cyprus Luxury Yacht Charter & Superyacht News

Season Opening Party hosted by Karpaz Gate Marina

June 17, 2013

Saturday, June 8, 2013, saw hundreds of guests attend an amazing season opening party, hosted by Karpaz Gate Marina. Situated in Northern Cyprus, this luxury superyacht marina proved itself to be the perfect setting as it played a host to the biggest event in its two-year history to mark the opening of its new beach club.

Marina clients, invited guests and local dignitaries at the VIP reception at Karpaz Gate Marina

Marina clients, invited guests and local dignitaries at the VIP reception at Karpaz Gate Marina

Some 80 people arrived by sea, including 15 boats with the Carreta Carreta rally, especially to take advantage of the free weekend’s berthing and VIP invitation offered by the marina, joining other invited guests and dignitaries at the stylish gathering.

The landmark occasion was a significant moment for Karpaz Gate Marina, as the party represented the successful culmination of years of planning and work to complete the impressive venue and associated facilities.

Guests enjoy drinks and canapés before viewing the new photography exhibition ‘Karpaz Untapped Beauty’

Guests enjoy drinks and canapés before viewing the new photography exhibition: ‘Karpaz Untapped Beauty’

After approximately €70 million of investment in the project, Karpaz Bay Resort Ltd’s Liza Singer said that Karpaz Gate Marina had now opened up the gateway to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and the Karpaz region as a tourist destination.

“North Cyprus and Karpaz Gate Marina are finally on the map,” said Singer. “When we started our development eight years ago, there was an army zone covering all shores of Northern Cyprus. We managed to lift these limitations and re-draft those maps to make the Northern Cyprus coasts free sailing and cruising grounds. Our marina has been built to be the gate through which people can enter the TRNC. Here, as opposed to flights to the TRNC, the arrival is direct.”

A saxophonist entertains the guests on the promenade

A saxophonist entertains the guests on the promenade

First, at an elegant, early evening VIP reception and cocktail party, with the perfect backdrop of the setting sun over the boats alongside in the marina, some 350 guests and marina clients sipped Champagne and sampled canapés while they were serenaded by a live saxophonist.

Following welcoming addresses by marina representatives and local officials, including Singer, Karpaz Gate Marina Harbour Master Deniz Akaltan and Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Culture Mr Sahap Asikoglu, the assembled guests were then invited to view a new photography exhibition, ‘Karpaz: Untapped Beauty’, which will remain open to the public for 45 days. The photographs by renowned Brazilian photographer Dudu Tresca, featuring stunning scenes from the surrounding TRNC, were arranged in a specially-created gallery space at the marina.

The saxophonist takes centre stage at the beach club party

The saxophonist takes centre stage at the beach club party

Karpaz Gate Marina’s unique hospitality continued with an extravagant sit-down meal as diners enjoyed the atmosphere inside the marina’s acclaimed Hemingway’s Resto-Bar or took advantage of the al fresco option on the promenade area.

The marina then opened its doors to hundreds more revellers as the party began by the beautiful infinity swimming pool at the new beach club a short walk along the promenade where a stage and huge screen had been constructed.

The dancing started as DJ Funky Fish warmed up the assorted guests before up-lifting Austrian electro band Makossa & Megablast took to the stage to showcase their impressive vocals with an authentic and unique fusion of African rhythms and electronic club music. Featuring Marcus Wagner-Lapierre and Sascha Weisz, the band thrilled the crowd with their interactive style and broad appeal to both young and old.

Austrian electro band Makossa and Megablast entertain the guests at the beach club party

Austrian electro band Makossa and Megablast entertain the guests at the beach club party

About 80 marina staff and other personnel were on hand to cater for everyone, entertain the guests and capture the event on video and camera, with the celebrations continuing until 2.30am.

Benefiting from duty-free status, Karpaz Gate Marina, located on the north eastern tip of Northern Cyprus, opened in 2011. It provides 300 berths for vessels up to 55 metres and boat maintenance facilities on site including an 18,000 sq m dry dock for refit and repairs, as well as a substantial 300-ton travel lift that is capable of lifting vessels up to 45 metres and with a beam of up 10 metres.

Free weekend berthing on offer at Karpaz Gate Marina

May 22, 2013

In order to mark the season opening at its amazing new beach club on Saturday, June 8, Karpaz Gate Marina is welcoming yacht owners to join the celebrations at a VIP reception and party. The Northern Cyprus-based luxury superyacht marina is providing visitors arriving by boat for the event with a free weekend of berthing for either Friday and Saturday night, 7th and 8th June, or Saturday and Sunday night, 8th and 9th June. All marina clients will receive a VIP invitation to the evening’s events. The local guests, dignitaries as well as residents from the area are also expected to be present.

The magnificent new beach club at Karpaz Gate Marina

The magnificent new beach club at Karpaz Gate Marina

The Karpaz Gate Marina season opener will be a musical and artistic celebration, with an early evening VIP reception and cocktail party at 6pm heralding the opening of an exhibition by renowned Brazilian photographer Dudu Tresca, called ‘Karpaz: Untapped Beauty’.

With a special area at the marina converted into a 300 square metre gallery, the photography exhibition will showcase 35 pictures featuring scenes of nature from the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and specifically the island’s panhandle, the beautiful natural reserve of Karpaz. It will be free to view for all the guests attending the party. The exhibition will then be open for 45 days, with visitors charged a small fee to be donated to the schools in the nearby village Yeni Erenkoy.

Well-known in the region for his work on the ‘Istanbul, European Capital of Culture, 2013’ project, Tresca specialises in panoramic photography and virtual reality and has been involved in the photographic industry for clients all over the world for 40 years.

In addition to countless photographs published in numerous magazines in South America, the most important works of the Sao Paulo-born photographer include the ‘Hidden Brazil’ series comprising 18 projects done for Pirelli’s ‘Via Cinturato’; ‘Rio Grande do Sul, Impressions’ for Panatlantica; ‘Maraca – Rain Forest’ and ‘Taim-Pembrokeshire’ for Lloyds Bank; ‘São Paulo – Body and Soul’ for Scania and ‘Toys, Art & Artists’.

The Dudu Tresca exhibition will be officially opened at the VIP reception, with Minister of TRNC Tourism, Environment and Culture Mr Ünal Üstel addressing the guests, before Karpaz Bay Resort Ltd’s Liza Singer and Karpaz Gate Marina Harbour Master Deniz Akaltan welcome everyone to the venue.

When the party begins at 8pm, the music of Austrian electro band Makossa & Megablast will provide the entertainment and the dancing will continue with DJ Funky Fish, while a variety of refreshments will be available as Karpaz Gate Marina opens its doors to guests, marina clients and local residents.

Described as an authentic and unique fusion of African rhythms and electronic club music with great vocalists, the up-lifting Makossa & Megablast is comprised of Marcus Wagner-Lapierre and Sascha Weisz.

The official launch party precedes an exciting line-up of events at the beach club during the 2013 season, including sunset BBQ’s, brunch on the beach, live music, DJ’s and a wellness programme.

Built to luxury standard and with views of the scenic beach, the club is located adjacent to the marina and includes a 33m infinity swimming pool. A jacuzzi is set to one side of the pool and there is a decking area with loungers all around it. A children’s pool and play area are also included, along with showers and changing rooms.

The water sports centre located at the beach club offers a variety of kayaks, including clear bottom and tandem options. Guests can rent snorkels, fins and masks and explore the crystal clear water of the private bay. For people looking for even more of an adventure, the in-house Mephisto Diving School provides PADI courses to all diving levels, departing from the beach club itself.

A beach restaurant and bar serves light meals, pizza and grill, which guests can enjoy under the pergola or shades, while there is a 200m long private sandy beach just steps from the pool with private lounging areas under the shade.

The beach club is the latest addition to the extensive array of leisure facilities already on offer at Karpaz Gate Marina, one of the most advanced marina facilities in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Deniz Tunukgun, the resort’s Food & Beverage Manager, said: “We wanted to start the summer season at our beach club in style. We hope our guests and visitors will celebrate with us at this party to open the summer and then continue to enjoy all the facilities at the club and the marina for many seasons to come.”

Cristiana Santoiemma, the marina’s office manager, adds: “The beach club will be open for boat owners and visitors to enjoy throughout the year, complementing our existing leisure features. Visiting yacht owners can relax pool-side or down by the beach, enjoy one of our water sports attractions or workout in the fitness centre at the marina before spending the evening at our fine dining restaurant Hemingway’s on the promenade.”

Berth holders and boat owners visiting Karpaz Gate Marina have complimentary access to the beach club. For other guests, the cost is 10TL per person, per day, to use the beach club and have access to the pools and private beach.

Other leisure features at the marina include the popular Hemingway’s Resto-Bar with seating inside and on the terrace. Hemingway’s offers an international menu and traditional Cypriot cuisine and also hosts a busy calendar of special nights. A modern, well-equipped fitness centre is on site.

Benefiting from duty-free status, Karpaz Gate Marina, located on the north eastern tip of Northern Cyprus, opened in 2011. It provides 300 berths for vessels up to 55 metres and boat maintenance facilities on site including an 18,000 sq m dry dock for refit and repairs, as well as a substantial 300-ton travel lift that is capable of lifting vessels up to 45 metres and with a beam of up 10 metres. There is also a mini-market on site, a Yacht Brokerage office operated by Cyprus Yachts and a chandlery.

Northern Cyprus is unaffected by the economic problems associated with the Euro in the south of the country, as it has its own currency, the Turkish Lira.

Karpaz Gate Marina: Superyacht marina unveils unspoilt corner of the Mediterranean

May 21, 2013

For decades having remained a virtually undiscovered destination due to restrictions as well as a lack of marina facilities, the secret of the fabulous Karpaz Peninsula of Northern Cyprus as a unique sailing spot in the Mediterranean is now spreading fast. It boasts pristine cruising ground, amazing scenery, miles of empty sandy beaches as well as plenty of bays, coves and inlets to explore and enjoy.

Golden Beach on the Karpaz Peninsula

Golden Beach on the Karpaz Peninsula in the popular summer yacht charter destination - the Mediterranean

The long, north-east pointing panhandle of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in the region of Iskele, characterised by a unique natural beauty complete with rolling countryside, wild donkeys and ancient Byzantine churches, is an unspoilt corner of the Mediterranean.

Still as remote, sleepy and refreshingly free of industry and pollution, the only thing that has changed about this little-known yachting area is the addition of the perfectly-positioned Karpaz Gate Marina.

Designed sensitively to complement the landscape of the area, the luxury 300-berth superyacht marina has opened up this rich cruising ground and provided Northern Cyprus with its first ever modern marina.

Using Karpaz Gate Marina as a base, the ancient Kyrenia Harbour in the Venetian town of Girne is just 48nm down the northern coast. While, on the eastern coastline, the largest port of Northern Cyprus, Famagusta Harbour, is also within easy reach. For those preferring shorter sails, there are also several spectacular anchorages dotted along the 240 miles of coastline of the TRNC.

Sailors can often enjoy a beach to themselves, ideal for swimming and snorkelling, or step ashore to explore historic landmarks and cultural sites, or savour picturesque walks along the numerous paths and trails.

The excellent year-round weather, with hot summers and mild, sunny winters, means the sailing season is long, while the duty-free status of Karpaz Gate Marina and the use of local currency, the Turkish Lira, ensures excellent value for money.

Karpaz Gate Marina is also the perfect home port for trips further afield. Within a short sail away you can discover the southern Turkish coastline and the harbours of Alanya, Antalya, Marmaris and Bodrum. And in just under 300 nautical miles you can reach Rhodes, gateway to the Greek Islands.

Whether you are looking for remote beaches, turtle watching, snorkelling, sheltered anchorages, historical places of interest, spectacular sailing, fresh Cypriot cuisine or a touch of luxury, this 10-day itinerary for sailing in the TRNC has a bit of everything.

Karpaz Gate Marina

Karpaz Gate Marina

SUGGESTED 10-DAY SAILING ITINERARY FOR NORTHERN CYPRUS

Base: Karpaz Gate Marina (N35°33.5′ E34°13.6′).
VHF: Ch 16/10.

Days 1&2: Karpaz Gate Marina to Kyrenia Harbour (N35°20.20′ E33°20.20′) – 48nm
Kyrenia Harbour – VHF: Ch 16/12.

Day 3: Kyrenia Ancient Harbour to Escape Beach (N35°20.84′ E33°14.11′) – 5nm

Day 4: Escape Beach to Alagadi Turtle Beach (N35°20.1′ E33°28.9′) – 12nm

Day 5: Alagadi Turtle Beach to Kaplica Bay (N35°24.1′ E33°44.2′) – 21nm

Day 6: Kaplica Bay to Karpaz natural bay (N35°40.5′ E34°31.2′) – 36nm

Day 7: Karpaz natural bay to Monastery Bay (N35° 38.333′ E34° 32.398′) – 12nm

Day 8&9: Monastery Bay to Famagusta (N35° 08.4′ E33° 57.4′) – 45nm
Famagusta – VHF: Ch 16/08

Day 10: Famagusta to Karpaz Gate Marina – 73nm

Northern Cyprus cruising guide

Northern Cyprus cruising guide

KARPAZ GATE MARINA
N35°33.5′ E34°13.6′
VHF: Ch 16/10

Start your sailing holiday in style with a weekend of luxury at one of the most advanced marina facilities in the Eastern Mediterranean. It benefits from 300 berths for vessels ranging from 5 metres up to 55 metres. The finger mooring system caters for boats up to 12 metres LOA and its Mediterranean type mooring system caters for vessels from 12 metres LOA. There are alongside or stern-to mooring facilities for super yachts.

Boat maintenance facilities on site include an 18,000 sq m dry dock for refit and repairs, as well as a substantial 300-ton travel lift that is capable of lifting vessels up to 45 metres and with a beam of up 10 metres. There is a mini-market, a Yacht Brokerage office operated by Cyprus Yachts and a chandlery.

The popular Hemingway’s RestoBar is situated at the marina and comprises both seating inside and on the terrace. Hemingway’s offers an international menu and traditional Cypriot cuisine, and also hosts a busy calendar of special nights.

New for the 2013 season, Karpaz Gate Marina has opened an international beach club adjacent to the marina. This luxurious club includes a 33m infinity swimming pool, with a jacuzzi set to one side. There is a decking area with loungers and a children’s pool and play area. The beach restaurant and bar serves light meals, pizza and grill. A 200m long private sandy beach is just steps from the beach club and includes private lounging areas under the shade. Showers and changing rooms are provided.

The water sports centre located at the beach club offers a variety of kayaks, including clear bottom and tandem options. Guests can rent snorkels, fins and masks and explore the crystal clear water of the private bay. The in-house Mephisto Diving School provides PADI courses to all diving levels, departing from the beach club. Turtles, dolphin and stingray are among the varied wildlife on show. A modern, well-equipped fitness centre is also on site.

Karpaz Gate Marina offers an ideally situated base in the heart of the area – the perfect place from which the Karpaz peninsula’s pristine waters, untouched bays and deserted sandy beaches can be explored.

Close to home, the coastline offers long sandy beaches, local harbours and family-run tavernas – ideal destinations for day sails or short outings. There are also a number of small fishing harbours along the coast to visit.

Ahead of arriving at Karpaz Gate Marina, the marina office can provide assistance for visiting boat owners wishing to attend organised day trips to see the sights at neighbouring towns. New this season, Karpaz Gate Marina is running its own shuttle bus, offering a convenient way for visitors to the marina to move around the island. It is free to travel to the closest village and the marina will be subsidising the service to take the shuttle to the main cities of Nicosia, Famagusta and Kyrenia.

Karpaz Gate Marina is a protected harbour basin and the entrance is facing south west. Follow the green and red buoys when entering the marina and call from VHF Ch. 16 or 10, call sign ‘Karpaz Gate Marina’.

Duty-Free Karpaz Gate Marina offering safe haven in Northern Cyprus

March 12, 2013

This summer, the duty-free status of Karpaz Gate Marina is expected to take on even greater significance for yacht owners, when Croatia becomes a new member of the European Union.

Karpaz Gate Marina situated in the beautiful yacht charter destination - the Eastern Mediterranean

Karpaz Gate Marina situated in the beautiful yacht charter destination - the Eastern Mediterranean

Northern Cyprus will become one of the last tax havens along the north coast of the Mediterranean when Croatia becomes the 28th member state of the EU on July 1 2013.

Karpaz Gate Marina is the perfect option for boat owners looking to benefit from duty-free status by cutting costs on fuel, technical service and supplies, while the Eastern Mediterranean destination outside the eurozone ensures further general savings on goods and services.

The luxury 300-berth superyacht marina is also a very attractive place for people who wish to keep their yachts in Europe, but not within the European Union, to save the value-added tax on the purchase price.

Long term, the importance of the location of Karpaz Gate Marina will increase if the EU develops as predicted over the next few years, with Albania and Bosnia-Herzegovina expected to join as soon as 2015.

Deniz Akaltan, Harbour Master at Karpaz Gate Marina, said: “For boat owners who want to hold their boat outside the EU, Karpaz Gate Marina is a very good option due to the savings associated with the tax-free environment and the extensive technical and leisure facilities available for berth holders here.

“There is a huge yachting industry in Croatia, plus people from all over Europe keep their boats there, and now Northern Cyprus and Turkey are almost the last havens for VAT along that whole northern coast of the Mediterranean.”

The duty-free fuel is one of the ways berth holders can cut costs at Karpaz Gate Marina. The price of diesel per litre was approximately €0.80 at Karpaz Gate Marina in March 2013 (subject to change at any time)

The duty-free fuel is one of the ways berth holders can cut costs at Karpaz Gate Marina. The price of diesel per litre was approximately €0.80 at Karpaz Gate Marina in March 2013 (subject to change at any time)

Another factor affecting the location chosen by owners for their boats is a recent crackdown by the Italian tax authority which is targeting boats moored in Italian ports and has already started to drive owners to alternative shores. The government has introduced an ownership tax on boats longer than 10 metres, while the nation’s tax police are reportedly searching yachts and then cross-checking the owners against their declared income ahead of a possible audit.

With the Eastern Mediterranean growing in popularity as a cruising destination, Karpaz Gate Marina is the perfect base for exploring the region. In addition, it is an official port of entry, with multi-lingual staff fluent in Italian, Turkish, French, German and English on hand to assist visitors.

Having completed its first full season in 2012, the marina has outstanding facilities and will officially open its stunning Beach Club this spring which is available to all berth holders and visiting yachts.

Superyachts are already taking advantage of the world class shipyard facilities, on-shore entertainment and concierge services, with the marina able to accommodate yachts up to 55 metres.

This year, marina prices are fixed at 2012 rates and there is also a special lucky 2013 berthing package available, which offers a free lift and launch and free antifouling for boat owners berthing at Karpaz Gate for more than six months. Plus, the 13th month is free for boat owners who book for 12 months.

With its duty-free status intact, Karpaz provides a welcome port financially as well as offering some of the best conditions in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Lucky 2013 Berthing Package announced by Karpaz Gate Marina

February 15, 2013

As part of a unique berthing package for this year, the 13th month is free for lucky yacht owners staying at Karpaz Gate Marina. The package provides 13 reasons to berth at the Northern Cyprus resort.

Karpaz Gate Marina

Karpaz Gate Marina

The highlight of the package is a free lift and launch, free hull wash with one month of free hard standing and two coats of free, professionally-applied antifouling, which will benefit yacht owners berthing at Karpaz Gate Marina for more than six months.

The lucky 2013 offer continues for owners who book for 12 months, with Karpaz Gate adding an extra month’s stay for free.

With superyacht marina prices already fixed at 2012 rates and Karpaz enjoying a tax-free environment, there are already six cost-cutting reasons for boat owners to enjoy a long-term stay in this beautiful area of the Eastern Mediterranean.

The package also includes membership to Karpaz Gate Marina’s newly opened International Beach Club, adjacent to the marina.

With crystal clear water and an unspoilt landscape, Northern Cyprus has a reputation as one of the top new sailing destinations, with the region known for its exceptional climate all year round. Visitors can experience the beautiful coastline, with miles of sandy beaches, coves and bays along the North East of the country.

Karpaz Gate Marina is the only luxury superyacht marina in the Eastern Mediterranean and boasts an experienced marina team with multi-lingual and helpful staff to assist visitors. It is also the most modern and well-equipped marina in the area with an ability to accommodate 300 yachts up to 55 metres.

Should owners leave their boats and return home during the winter months, they can rest assured that their yacht is well cared for. Karpaz Gate Marina has one of the most sophisticated security systems in the Mediterranean region with computerised, selective pontoon access and CCTV cameras located throughout the marina manned by security staff 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

As another incentive for yachts sailing to Northern Cyprus for the first time, Karpaz Gate Marina is a recognised port of entry.

“We are delighted to be able to offer this deal for boat owners staying over the summer months and beyond in 2013,” said Harbour Master Deniz Akaltan. “The benefits on offer mean we can make berthing in Northern Cyprus very appealing.”

The marina and yard facilities at Karpaz Gate Marina are operated by a single management company, enabling all facilities on water and ashore to be linked cost-effectively for the boat owner. Plus, the duty-free status at the marina provides savings on fuel, technical service and supplies.

The engineering and boat maintenance services include an 18,000 sq m dry dock for refit and repairs. A substantial 300-ton travel lift, one of the largest in the region, is capable of lifting vessels up to 45 metres and with a beam of up to 10 metres. These vessels can be accommodated ashore or antifouled in the slings.

Karpaz Gate Marina also features a restaurant running special nights throughout the year, shopping facilities, gym, shower and laundry facilities.

North Cyprus welcomed over million visitors during the first ten months of 2012

January 14, 2013

More than a million people visited North Cyprus during the first 10 months of 2012. This fact represents a dramatic increase of 16.5% on the same period in 2011.

Karpaz Gate Marina - a beautiful superyacht marina situated in North Cyprus

Karpaz Gate Marina - a beautiful superyacht marina situated in North Cyprus

Despite the global financial woes, North Cyprus welcomed 1,000,861 people through its ports and airports during the first ten months of 2012, compared to 859,349 the previous year.

An increase in charter flights to the area has been a strong factor in driving up visitor numbers, but the new and developing facilities at Karpaz Gate Marina have also played a part in increasing the popularity and attractiveness of the region.

As well as boasting superior equipment and facilities for all types of vessels up to superyacht size, the marina offers much more to visitors including its International Beach Club and Hemingway’s Resto-Bar.

The vast majority of the one million people arrived in North Cyprus via Ercan airport, with significant numbers also coming in through the ferry terminal at Girne.

Kadir Doruhan, Tourism Co-ordinator for North Cyprus Tourism Centre Ltd, visited Karpaz Gate Marina this year. He said: “I was very impressed by the set-up at Karpaz Gate. There was only a very limited harbour before, so it is great that we now have these facilities.

“Visitors come to North Cyprus because it is not commercialised and is untouched compared to other Mediterranean destinations. There is culture, history, peace and quiet and it is very family orientated.”

The vast majority of tourists visiting North Cyprus are from the Turkish Republic (765,915), with the UK providing the second highest number of visitors at 42,611 in the first ten months of 2012.

There is a significant rise in the numbers of Germans choosing North Cyprus, with 20,393 people visiting in 2012 – a rise of 36.6% on 2011.

The Netherlands provided 16,987 visitors to North Cyprus, up by a remarkable 88%, with Iran (20,692) and Russia (11,986) the other main contributors to overall numbers.

Doruhan is confident the number of people visiting the region will continue to grow in 2013 due to an ongoing marketing strategy. “Considering the financial struggles around the world, it has been a good year,” he added. “We are implementing marketing activities and in 2013 we will be continuing to push walking, history and attractions such as our wild orchid.”

Latif Ince, Officer with the Tourism Marketing & Promotion Department in North Cyprus, says the rise in visitors is partly due to the increase in charter flights. “We have a number of incentives in place to encourage charter flights and the number of destinations has increased significantly over the last year,” said Ince. “It was a big year last year where we saw the number of tourists hit one million for the first time.

“Karpaz Marina is a big attraction, so we are looking to improve the infrastructure now in terms of developing our marinas. We also have the Eastern Mediterranean Yacht Rally in May.

“The main attractions to the area are of course the sunshine and the friendly and hospitable people.”

There are also large numbers of Russians (63,473), Germans (71,381), Bulgarians (68,434) and Romanians (53,158) entering North Cyprus via the border gates from South Cyprus.

Cyprus Commerce, Industry and Tourism Minister Neoklis Sylikiotis said that new efforts should be made to attract more tourism, emphasising that tourism is the biggest factor to influence the economy of the country.

And the Vice President of the Board of Directors of the Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) George Mindis added that tourism is not only the support system of the countries, but that the growth of the island is highly dependent on tourism.

A very successful first full season for Karpaz Gate Marina

January 14, 2013

Thanks to the amazing first full year, Karpaz Gate Marina, is now considered as one of the most comprehensive as well as advanced superyacht marina facilities in the popular yacht charter destination – the Eastern Mediterranean.

Aerial view of Karpaz Gate Marina

Aerial view of Karpaz Gate Marina

From berth and technical services to security systems, Karpaz is now offering exceptional facilities which meet and exceed all marine, leisure and shore requirements and is already receiving high praise from visitors.

The move to fix marina prices at 2012 prices, combined with booming tourism in North Cyprus, is set to ensure Karpaz will welcome even more visitors in the new year and further enhance its name as a first-class destination.

The season saw the arrival of the first superyachts to take advantage of the extensive new facilities and the tax free environment. The duty-free status enjoyed by Karpaz, providing savings on fuel, technical service and supplies, produced substantial running cost savings for the yachts whilst they enjoy the best of the Eastern Mediterranean cruising.

Yard services are now capable of handling a vast range of mechanical, electrical and general maintenance requirements, with the largest capacity lift-out hoist in the region. Vessels up to 45 metres and with a beam of up 10 metres can be brought ashore for refit or antifouling.

Also completed this season are some of the most comprehensive security systems available in the Mediterranean ensuring the complete safety of the marina’s prestigious visitors. These facilities include 24/7 CCTV and security personnel throughout the marina and access control and access cards for each marina area.

The jewel in the Karpaz crown, the outstanding International Beach Club, has also been completed well in time for the opening of the 2013 season. The impressive new club boasts a 33m Infinity Pool, private beach, children’s pool and play area and beach restaurant and bar, serving light meals, pizza and grill.

In business since September 2012, Cyprus yachts on the main promenade offers sales and brokerage services and a number of well-known sail and motor boat dealerships, with a complete chandlery outlet also opening its doors in 2013.

The marina has received many positive comments from this year’s visiting yachts, including a US sailing yacht owner, who said: “We have visited 49 countries and as many marinas. KGM [Karpaz Gate Marina] is rated number one with us as one of the best marinas we have visited”, and from a 73-metre superyacht skipper, who commented: “Karpaz Marina gave a very warm welcome and a can-do attitude to all things possible on the beautiful northern part of Cyprus. Restaurant reservations, clearance formalities and tourist advice were spot on every time”.

Karpaz Gate Marina has clearly shown it has created an exceptional facility for yachtsmen who wish to experience a new cruising area in the beautiful waters of Northern Cyprus. More information about the marina is available at Tullett Prebon London Boat Show (January 12-20), at Turkish Culture & Tourism Stand: C150.

A new beach club at Karpaz Gate Marina in Northern Cyprus

September 25, 2012

Built to international standard and boasting a great variety of leisure facilities to enjoy all year-round, Karpaz Gate Marina has inaugurated a new, luxury beach club. This beautiful superyacht marina is situated in Northern Cyprus.

A Luxury Beach Club at Karpaz Gate Marina in Northern Cyprus

A Luxury Beach Club at Karpaz Gate Marina in Northern Cyprus

The beach club is located adjacent to the marina and includes a newly opened 33m infinity swimming pool, unique to any beach club in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. A Jacuzzi is to set to one side and there is a decking area with loungers. A children’s pool and play area are also featured in the beach club.

Guests can choose to sit around the pool, on the beach or under the pergola or shades at the beach restaurant and bar, which serves light meals, pizza and grill. A 150m long private sandy beach is just steps from the beach club and includes private lounging areas under the shade. Showers and changing rooms are provided.

Soner Arabaci, the resort’s operational manager commented: “We offer multiple leisure areas at the marina and were really excited to introduce visitors to our latest addition and experience our resort. The beach club will be open for boat owners and visitors to enjoy, complementing our existing leisure features. Visiting yacht owners can relax pool-side or down by the beach or workout in the fitness centre at the marina before spending the evening at our fine dining restaurant Hemingway’s on the promenade.”

Aerial view of the Karpaz Gate Marina

Aerial view of the Karpaz Gate Marina

It is 10TL per person, per day to use the beach club and have access to the pools and private beach. Berth holders and boat owners visiting Karpaz Gate Marina have complimentary access to the beach club. Other leisure features at the marina include the popular Hemingway’s Resto-Bar with seating inside and on the terrace. Hemingway’s offers an international menu and traditional Cypriot cuisine as well as hosts a busy calendar of special nights. A modern, well-equipped fitness centre is also on site.

Karpaz Gate Marina, located on the Karpasia Peninsula in the north eastern top of Northern Cyprus, opened just last year. It is one of the most advanced marina facilities in the Eastern Mediterranean, benefiting from 300 berths for vessels up to 55 metres and boat maintenance facilities on site including an 18,000 sq m dry dock for refit and repairs, as well as a substantial 300 ton travel lift that is capable of lifting vessels up to 45 metres and with a beam of up 10 metres. There is also a mini Market on site, a Yacht Brokerage office operated by Cyprus Yachts and a chandlery.

Karpaz Gate Marina offers a comprehensive and unique package for yachts berthing through the winter period

September 04, 2012

Luxury yachts berthing in the fabulous Karpaz Gate Marina in Northern Cyprus through the winter period can now enjoy a comprehensive and unique package. This beautiful marina represents one of the most advanced marina facilities in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Aerial view of the Karpaz Gate Marina

Aerial view of the Karpaz Gate Marina

Yachts measuring up to 45 metres will benefit from free lift and launch, free professionally applied antifouling and a host of other benefits designed to make winter berthing in Northern Cyprus exceptional value in an area known to enjoy one of the best winter climates in the Mediterranean. The winter berthing package also includes a NEW element with membership to Karpaz Gate Marina’s newly opened International Beach Club, adjacent to the marina.

Karpaz Gate Marina is the most modern and well-equipped marina in the Eastern Mediterranean. The marina and yard facilities at Karpaz Gate Marina are operated by a single management company, enabling all facilities on water and ashore to be linked cost-effectively for the boat owner. The marina can accommodate yachts up to 55 metres.

Hemingway's Restobar at Karpaz Gate Marina

Hemingway's Restobar at Karpaz Gate Marina

The engineering and boat maintenance services include an 18,000 sq m dry dock for refit and repairs. A substantial 300 ton travel lift, one of the largest in the region, is capable of lifting vessels up to 45 metres and with a beam of up 10 metres. These vessels can be accommodated ashore or antifouled in the slings. NEW to the marina, a well-stocked chandlery and brokerage office have recently opened.

Karpaz Gate Marina also features a restaurant running special nights throughout the year, shopping facilities, gym, shower and laundry facilities.

Harbour Master Deniz Akaltan said: “We opened Karpaz Gate Marina last year and are very proud of the facilities available to boat owners. As an incentive to join us this winter season we are offering the lift out, pressure wash and recoating with quality antifouling, free of charge to our six month over-winter berth holders. This berthing package together with our extensive technical services and leisure facilities makes for another great reason for boat owners to extend their holiday in the Eastern Mediterranean this winter.”

The 300 ton travel lift at Karpaz Gate Marina

The 300 ton travel lift at Karpaz Gate Marina

Should owners leave their boats and return home during the winter months, they rest assured that their yacht is well cared for. Karpaz Gate Marina has one of the most sophisticated security systems in Mediterranean region with computerised, selective pontoon access and CCTV cameras located throughout the marina manned by security staff 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

For yachts sailing to Northern Cyprus for the first time, Kapaz Gate Marina is a recognised port of entry with multi lingual and helpful staff to assist, making it easy for visitors to experience this exceptional coastline. There are miles of sandy beaches, coves and bays along the North East of the country.

Karpaz Gate Marina hosted the 2012 Eastern Mediterranean Yacht Rally (EMYR)

June 29, 2012

The 84 sailors competing in the 2012 Eastern Mediterranean Yacht Rally (EMYR) have been recently hosted by the Karpaz Gate Marina (KGM), part of the all-new Karpaz Bay Resort in Northern Cyprus. The annual international rally, which comprises yachting enthusiasts aboard approximately 33 yachts, arrived at KGM for two days at the beginning of this month and were so impressed with the facilities as well as the service that they received that they came back a week later for an additional two days, before continuing their journey around the highlights of the Eastern Mediterranean.

Yachts at the EMYR 2012

Yachts at the EMYR 2012

On arrival at the marina a welcoming ceremony was held and rally participants enjoyed cocktails and evening dinner at the marina’s Hemingway’s Restobar, followed by a presentation ceremony. The next day, tours of local attractions were arranged and the highlights visited included the Monastery and Golden Beach in the Dipkarpaz area. Early evening entertainment, with live music, was later enjoyed while a Happy Hour promotion was available to all participants.

Eastern Mediterranean Yacht Rally 2012

Eastern Mediterranean Yacht Rally 2012

During the visit, many vessels took advantage of the local competitive fuel prices and enquired about securing a long-term berth at Karpaz Gate Marina, which is the Eastern Mediterranean’s only luxury marina. Located on the stunning, unspoilt Karpaz Peninsula in the north-eastern tip of Northern Cyprus, it offers 300 berths including 15 berths for super yachts and mega yachts up to a maximum of 60 metres in length. Facilities at the resort now include an extensive 18,000 sqm dry dock with hauling out and over-wintering facilities, mini supermarket, children’s play area, restaurant/bar and gymnasium. A stylish beach club is also due to open in August 2012.

EMYR 2012

EMYR 2012

Roy Klajman, Director of Sea-Alliance Group, the marina management company, said: “Once again the EMYR were delighted with what they found at the marina since the facilities on offer were far superior to those found elsewhere. We proudly welcomed them and demonstrated the progress that we have made at the marina since their first visit last year. Feedback has been extremely positive and we are thrilled with the response!”

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