Development Of Nautical Tourism In Cyprus

Abstract

Cyprus, a well established tourist destination, is seeking to sustain a competitive edge relative to other popular destinations by promoting a policy for the upgrading and diversification in the range of attractions available to visitors. In this sense, Marinas and related nautical tourism infrastructure appeal to the requirements of a qualitative improvement of the tourism product. Based on market research, a detailed master plan for the development and successful operation of Marinas and yacht harbours for tourism purposes was proposed. The master plan took into account all existing infrastructure, including commercial and fishing shelters and proposed a comprehensive development plan to cover the whole Cyprus coastline, taking into account urban and regional development plans as well as environmental aspects. According to the results of the market research on the existing situation and the future demand in berthing spaces along the whole coastline of the island, some 4,800 berths for yachts will be needed by the year 2013. In order to satisfy this demand, the creation of eight medium and large scale Marinas is proposed. For this series of recommended projects, priorities have been set, based on their feasibility, their degree of contribution towards the development of nautical tourism and on the market considerations. The strategy of development of nautical tourism facilities in Cyprus has been approved by the Minister's Council of Cyprus in March 1994. Transactions on the Built Environment vol 8, © 1995 WIT Press, www.witpress.com, ISSN 1743-3509