Award-winning marina offers safe berthing outside the EU for British boat owners impacted by post-Brexit rules including the Schengen 90-day limit and VAT liability for returning boats
Karpaz Gate Marina has announced special berthing packages to welcome UK boat owners to the spectacular shores of North Cyprus as the region opens its borders with new entry requirements for international visitors.
Effective from 3 June, the travel criteria allow quarantine-free entry to North Cyprus from low-risk (green, orange and yellow) countries, with no test requirements for vaccinated visitors from the lowest risk areas. The status of each country will be updated on a weekly basis by the Ministry of Health and will be posted weekly on the Karpaz Gate Marina website.
The UK is currently rated as ‘Orange’, which means vaccinated visitors from the country are not required to quarantine or take a test after arrival. A negative PCR test is required within 72 hours before the flight.
Award-winning Karpaz Gate Marina is introducing its ‘Back2Boating’ campaign to attract new clients and returning berth holders over the summer and beyond, offering the perfect berthing solution as a safe, hassle-free and peaceful home port for owners seeking to escape the crowds.
For UK boat owners seeking a new base due to post-Brexit rules, the marina is a well-placed haven, close to expansive Mediterranean cruising grounds but outside the EU. The European cruising plans of many sailors have been impacted firstly by the 90-day rule, stating that UK citizens can only travel to Schengen countries for 90 days in any 180-day period. VAT liability is the second key issue affecting owners, as those who bought vessels in the EU that have not been located in the UK during their current ownership will have to pay UK VAT on their boat if they want to bring it back to the UK, even if they have paid EU VAT.
The special Back2Boating deals are available from June and include discounted annual packages, with options for a lift-out service for hull check and technical work or three months’ flexibility to sail elsewhere within the contract. There are also short-term deals for new clients, with the potential for an extended stay.
Liza Singer, Managing Director, Karpaz Gate Marina, said: “It has been a challenging year for everyone, with limited travel and many other restrictions. However, there is positive news regarding the vaccination program and the pandemic in the TRNC and clear travel guidance in place, so we are looking forward to welcoming boats once again and starting to see the buzz of excitement in the marina.
“It has already been seen over the past year that boating is the perfect activity during these times, as a safe way to enjoy the freedom of the ocean and spend time with friends and family. At Karpaz Gate Marina, we are committed to combine all that is required for safe and enjoyable travel – safe mooring, peace and quiet away from the crowds, natural surroundings, and also our full-service capabilities, technical service centre, hassle-free procedures and leisure amenities. More than ever before, North Cyprus is the perfect place to select as the next home base for your boat or to visit while cruising. We can’t wait to greet old friends and new visitors by sea to experience our special haven at Karpaz Gate Marina.”
Karpaz Gate Marina’s berthing services, Hemingway’s Resto-Bar, Beach Club and gym facilities, as well as its extensive technical department and dry dock, are now open in compliance with the local business and social COVID-19 guidelines.
This year, the marina marks a decade in operation and celebrates a significant milestone in the transformation of North Cyprus as an accessible cruising region for the yachting community. Winning five-star reviews from berth holders, the marina has built a strong reputation due to its unique and idyllic location, and immaculate berthing, technical and leisure facilities. The launch of the new Karpaz Gate Marina hotel, hammam and spa later this year is the latest development at the 5 Gold Anchor marina in North Cyprus, adding exceptional accommodation to its full-service capabilities.
