The project near Aya Napa was announced several years ago, but the island's financial crisis, which could only be saved from national bankruptcy by cutting its debt, put the ambitious project on hold. In the wake of the crisis, it was slimmed down and reorganised so that Egyptian businessman Naguyip Sawiris could now be won as an investor. The harbour, a luxury hotel, holiday flats and corresponding service facilities are set to cost around 220 million euros. Construction is due to start in the summer and should be completed in around three years.
The construction of the large facility, which is located just under five nautical miles north-west of Cape Greko near Aya Napa, is one of several major projects on the island. Most recently, the Karpaz Gate Marina in the north of Cyprus was completed. The island is known among sailors as a good wintering spot and the climate is mild almost all year round. There has recently been talk from the Turkish side that the first rapprochement between the north and the Greek southern part is to take place. This would be desirable for sailors: so far, yachts that first call at the northern part have been denied entry to the southern part. The other way round, however, is unproblematic.
Andreas Fritsch
Editor Travel
