Yachts and boats, which contribute significantly to the economy of the region, are preparing for blue tours, which are among the indispensable parts of the summer season. Starting April 1, yachts and boats that will open the season will bring tourists to the bays where the sea and nature are intertwined with daily and weekly excursion programs.
Istanbul and Marmara, Aegean, Mediterranean and Black Sea Regions (IMEAK) Chamber of Shipping Antalya Branch President Ahmet Çetin said that there are 5 thousand registered commercial and daily private boats in Antalya. Stating that the tours are made in Kalkan, Kaş, Demre, Üçağız, Kumluca, Adrasan, Kemer, Kaleiçi, Manavgat, Alanya regions, Çetin noted that there is more domestic tourist density in Kaş, Üçağız, Adrasan.
Stating that foreign tourists also have a high interest in blue tours, Çetin said, “As of April 1, all our marine commercial vehicles will have entered the sea. Expectations are high in sea tourism this year. We expect more participation especially from European tourists compared to last year. According to the information we received from travel agencies, 2024 will be better than 2023.”
Stating that the boats that are active in the summer season spend the winter season with maintenance and repair, Çetin said that the tourism sector is ready for the summer season.
“THERE ARE NEARLY 300 WATER SPORTS TRACKS IN THE CITY”
Çetin emphasized that Antalya has an important potential in cruise tourism. Stating that luxury yachts, which are described as “floating hotels” in Antalya ports, have started to be seen more frequently, Çetin noted that 44 cruise ships anchored in Antalya last year. Explaining that many tourists coming with luxury ships visit the city center and shop, Çetin stated that it also contributed significantly to the tradesmen.
Emphasizing that Antalya is also an ambitious city in water sports, Çetin said, “Local and foreign tourists are very interested in water sports. There are nearly 300 water sports tracks, which makes a serious contribution to the economy. They will have completed their preparations by the end of March.” Ahmet Çetin added that they expect a good season in terms of sea tourism.
