Wintering 2005/6 - Cyprus?

[Mayhem]

We have spent the last two winters in wet and windy conditions, one in Lefkas Greece and one in Marmaris, Turkey. We are looking for somewhere with a warmer drier climate where there is a good liveaboard community, reasonably priced with good hot showers. Any location in east med.

 

[davidbains]

Cyprus does indeed have a warm dry climate in the winter.
I have swam on New years eve in Limassol.
You have to book early for a berth in Larnaca.
However there are two more marinas near Paphos now I believe.
How about Israel or even Tunisia.

 

[mikewilkes]

Agree about Israel. Great place, nice people.
Try the new marina at Ashdod. Should be finished now. Was quoted US$1000 pa for a berth for a 10m x 4m cat back in 2002.
There are other marinas but Tel-Aviv is probably a bit full and expensive.

ps - I dont work for the Israeli tourist board by the way!

 

[pmyatt]

We live in Cyprus and keep our Freedom 38 in the Limassol marina. Approx £ 150 per month in winter and £ 210 per month in the summer. Despite the fact that we live here and pay Cyprus taxes we cannot get an annual mooring (xenophobia?). We were in Larnaca marina for a short while which was half the price but had to leave as no spaces - even ashore! Larnaca is better for facilities - Limassol does not welcome liveaboards - it sees itself as too upmarket for that. The showers and toilets are too small and not cleaned enough. Notwith standing all this, the marina staff are always very helful and friendly - in fact Cypriots have a natural hospitality which is very refreshing after Western Europe. If I had a choice and could get into Larnaca thats where I would be - showers/toilets are better, more marine facilities, and "Stav's" place is great for a cheap lunch.

 

[davidbains]

Forever Freedom, what's the situation in Paphos?

 

[pmyatt]

Perhaps it will give you some indication when I say that we have never entered Paphos harbour in the whole time we have been here - it's diabolical! You would be extremely lucky to get a buoy and anchoring is a joke. Marine/chandlery facilities don't exist and visitors are generally not welcome because of the fishing and tripper boats. Showers/toilets do exist but are limited. Notwithstanding this, paradoxically, Cypriots are naturally hospitable.