A turquoise gem
The Superyacht Owner spent time with the Palmarina team in Bodrum this week to explore this up and coming gem of the Turquoise Riviera.…
CEO Levent Baktir (R) with head of PR and Marketing, Deniz Taskin
From the moment you are greeted by the team at Palmarina, you'll want for nothing. This is a company that understands the high level of service demanded by the madness that is the superyacht industry and works to surpass expectations. On site to meet with Palmarina Bodrum's General Director, Levent Baktir, it takes no time to fall in love with the region. From the turoqouise waters and stunning sunsets, to the warm and friendly locals, this is an area that won't be kept secret for long. This summer will see the completion of the marina with no shortage of luxurious amenities, including two hotels onsite, an abundance of high end retail shopping, world class restaurants and new children's areas.
Turkey itself seems to be on the precipice of a purple patch at the moment with many locals hopeful that following elections next month, a new government will bring renewed focus to the region and appeal to more tourists. With a new leader and travel to Turkey on the rise, Baktir is optimistic for the future of their little slice of the Med. "I think people are looking to fully escape during their time on board. This area within the northern peninsula is becoming synonymous with detox, wellness and luxurious escapes". We know owners and charterers are looking for new destinations - Monaco, the Cote d'Azur, Spain and Italy all offer some fantastic cruising grounds, but what about those who want to try something new without committing to an extended cruise to Asia or the Caribbean? Baktir believes the answer lies just east of the norm.
While not just benefiting the superyacht industry, Turkey and neighbouring eastern Med hot spots are booming with foreign investment at the moment leading to a knock on effect for the economy as a whole. Whilst touring the town of Bodrum, there was no shortage of construction sites, renewed infrastructure and jobs on offer for locals. As we await the final weeks before elections, the Turks are hopeful that their star will continue to rise...watch this space.
A full report will be featured in issue 13 of The Superyacht Owner.
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