Number of visitors discovering Northern Cyprus up by 11 percent

The popularity of North Cyprus as a tourist and sailing destination is reportedly increasing, with new figures revealing a 10.8 percent rise in visitors last year. A total of 1,366,077 visitors arrived in the country by air and sea in 2014, compared to 1,232,753 in 2013.

As the reputation of the TRNC (Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus) as a destination continues to grow, Karpaz Gate Marina is also reporting a specific rise in boat owners, captains and crew discovering the coastline and cruising grounds.

Deniz Akaltan, the harbour master of Karpaz Gate Marina said, “More boat owners every year are finding out about all the advantages of berthing at Karpaz Gate Marina along with the appeal and charm of this unique corner of the Eastern Mediterranean. “The investment in our marina on the unspoiled Karpaz Peninsula has given a significant boost to the yachting tourism infrastructure in North Cyprus by ensuring the region is much more accessible by sea which is really helping boaters to visit and explore the coastline.

“There is still huge growth potential for the TRNC marina industry as people discover the island’s natural asset – its coastline and cruising grounds. The Eastern Mediterranean as a wider area is growing in popularity as a cruising destination and as a cost-effective, safe and convenient place to keep a boat, with some areas of the Western Mediterranean often too crowded.”

According to Karpaz Gate Marina, the majority of tourists coming to North Cyprus are from Turkey, with large numbers also arriving from countries such as England, Germany, Iran and Russia. There has also been a reported increase in charter flights to the area, helping to boost visitor numbers flying to Ercan airport, along with additional investment in hotels and facilities.

The natural landscape of Northern Cyprus includes mountainous peaks as well as an abundance of flora and fauna and notable wildlife, including the region’s rare turtles and wild donkeys. Highlights for visitors include St Hilarion Castle, the Ancient City of Salamis, Bellapais Abbey and village, Apostolos Andreas Monastery and more. For more information, visit Karpaz Gate Marina.