Turkey launches e-Visa for groups
Groups of travellers arriving on the stunning and sweeping shores of Turkey for their holidays this summer will no longer need to suffer the arduous task of submitting visa applications individually, the nation's tourism organisation has confirmed.
Any group of tourists numbering between ten and 300 people seeking entry to the country is eligible to apply for the new visa, which has been made possible by the fact Turkey adopted electronic methods of getting hold of the document earlier this year.
However, it is important for travellers to note that there are some stipulations attached to the group e-visa – namely that everyone it will be covering must be of the same nationality and arrival date.
In addition, everyone noted by the document must have the same intentions when coming to Turkey, making it impossible for one person to register on business while another does so as a tourist.
The type of travel documents supplied by each person – whether normal, official or diplomatic – also need to match.
Turkey's new electronic visa system has been operating since April 11th and made headlines across the world as it made it much easier for tourists to enter the country. Travellers simply log onto the website and fill in the form before downloading and printing their document before flying.
Aside from making immigration much quicker, the new system also allows tourists to cross Turkey's borders on any specific date during the period of validity stated on the visa.
Those wishing to make a group application should note that forms must be completed within 48 hours of the process being started. Payments can be made by credit or debit card and UK citizens will need to pay $20 (£11.75)
The news will be music to the ears of Seafarer customers taking advantage of our group discount that offers great rates for people booking nine cabins or more for their trip.
Greece embraces green tourism
Greece is renowned for its spotless and beautiful stretches of coastline, with beautiful beaches, rugged cliff faces and intimate little coves all featuring. So it's something of a relief to hear at Seafarer that the country's tourist industry is going that little bit further to preserve its natural assets.
According to the Travel Foundation, Greece's National Tourism Organisation has become the latest to sign up for the Make Holidays Greener campaign, which aims to help raise awareness of the need for greener and cleaner beaches.
Salli Felton, acting chief executive of the Travel Foundation, was among those celebrating the news.
"We’re delighted that Visit Greece is on board," she said. "Their support will help us to spread the word that cleaner, greener beaches aren't just important for tourism, they are essential for coastal communities and wildlife such as sea turtles too."
Christina Kalogera, director of Visit Greece, drew attention to Greece's clean coastlines and extensive conservation efforts, which include protecting two species that are under threat – the Monk Seal and the Sea Turtle.
"The focus of the Make Holidays Greener campaign on beaches links to the world-famous Greek shores, which are known for their clean and clear waters," she added.
The Make Holidays Greener initiative will run this July, with dozens of events taking place across various countries that aim to encourage people to think about their impact upon the local environment when travelling abroad this summer.
Organising beach cleanups and attending talks promoting facts about healthy oceans are just two ways that people can get involved.
If you needed another excuse to explore this beautiful country with its characteristic landscape and fascinating history, this could well be it. Why not journey around Greece's stunning collection of islands this summer aboard one of our small ship cruises?
Seafarer has for some years now been promoting a responsibl;e aproach to yachting with information on recommeded good practice and guidelines to guests provided on every yacht,as well as supporting various local organisations like Dolphin Watch in the Ionian and Archpelagos in the Aegean.
World Oceans Day celebrated across the globe
The importance of the world's oceans was highlighted across the globe over the weekend (June 7th) in an initiative that saw events set up in various countries to celebrate these life-giving bodies of water.
World Oceans Day was set up in 2002 and officially recognised by the United Nations in 2008 as a global conservation effort.
Not only do oceans generate much of the oxygen we breathe, they help to feed us, clean the water we drink, regulate our climate and offer a pharmacopoeia of potential medicines. However, they are often left polluted or overfished by human interference.
It is for this reason that The Ocean Project and World Ocean Network decided to set up an initiative to help people give something positive back to the oceans in order to raise awareness.
Events were held across the globe to achieve this, with various festivals, celebrations and extravaganzas contributing money to the cause. Participants were encouraged to 'wear blue and tell two' in order to increase awareness.
"We have to ensure that oceans continue to meet our needs without compromising those of future generations," commented secretary-general Ban Ki-moon in a message marking the day, adding, "their depths hold current and future solutions to humanity's energy needs".
While occasions such as World Oceans Day are essential when it comes to raising awareness, caring for the ocean is something that we need to think about all the time in our daily lives.
This means that you must make sustainable choices all the time, whether you are buying tuna from the supermarket or planning a holiday.
Seafarer are committed to providing holidays that are environmentally sustainable so that the oceans we explore are still here for others to enjoy in the future. Whether you're relaxing in the Seychelles or the River Rhine, you can be sure of having a harmless impact on the local ecosystem.
A view from the deck: Colin talks to Seafarer
Over the years, we at Seafarer have grown accustomed to welcoming everyone onto our ships to experience our winning formula, but we’re always particularly pleased to see the occasional old face coming back for a trip around the Greek Islands or the Seychelles.
Colin is just one such friend. Having sampled our Seychelles Mega Yacht, Antiquity to Byzantium, Classical Greece, Dream Mauritius and Rivers of West Africa holidays, as well as several itineraries that no longer exist, he is something of a globetrotter. He laughs when I suggest this, however. “I’m just trying to see some of the world!” he says, easily.
A personal mission
But there’s a little more to Colin’s personal mission than meets the eye. He came on his first Seafarer and Variety cruises with his wife of 48 years Gwen, who sadly passed away due to cancer in 2012 after battling the disease for three-and-a-half years. “We managed to go on a couple of holidays during that time,” he reminisces. “She was very sick, although she didn’t show it. She particularly loved the Greek islands. We went there for her last holiday and we had a fantastic time.”
To be married for almost half a century and then suddenly find himself alone was extremely difficult, he admits. But he hasn’t let becoming a widower deter him from exploring the world. In fact, it’s helped him carry on. “This is how I’m coping with my life as a single person.”
Smaller vessels
But what is it that has kept Colin coming back to Seafarer? “It’s the ship size!” he enthuses. “My worst nightmare is being stuck on a 3,000 passenger boat. But with fewer people, you get a more intimate experience.”
It’s something that has helped him make friends on his journeys very quickly – something he values as a single traveller – who he loves keeping in touch with. “The Seychelles was a standout, there were a couple of Swiss people who were very, very nice,” he says. “And when I got home, I had an invite to Switzerland on my doormat, so I got to go to Switzerland and meet them there!”
But it’s not just his fellow holidaymakers that help him enjoy the journey. He has travelled on so many of our cruises that he recognises the crew members on sight as well, having bumped into some of them multiple times. “We’ve become quite good friends,” he chuckles.
An intimate experience
While the smaller vessels lend themselves to a more intimate experience, Colin says that the personal tailoring starts well before he’s on deck sunning himself or swimming in the crystal clear waters of a local bay. When he’s ready to book his next adventure, he gets on the phone to Seafarer and Variety’s office. “I get fantastic advice from Iwona,” he says. “She knows what I like – her and Suzie. We form a holiday to suit me and they know everything already.”
Colin has even received destination advice from the dynamic duo when he’s stuck for inspiration, but he doesn’t need help when it comes to choosing excursions. “I go for everything!” he laughs. “They know that now!” While he admits to getting a little tired from all the exploring this brings, he’s also fascinated by everything that he has seen. “Turkey, Greece,” he ticks off. “All these places have got unbelievable history and it’s just wonderful.”
What the future holds
And Colin doesn’t intend to put a stop on his world adventure just yet, as he is already planning his next cruise with Iwona. This time, he hopes to travel aboard one of our luxurious tall ships in Europe at some point this summer. He’s well aware of how to protect himself from the sun, though.
“I will be in the shade with a book, possibly with a beer,” he chuckles. “In fact, I know I will have a beer!”
Greece set for bumper tourism year
Tourism arrivals in Greece are set to exceed 20 million this year, a sure sign that the tourism industry is heading for another record-breaking year following 2013's similarly strong figures.
Each year sees tourists flocking to hotspots around the nation, attracted by the history and culture as well as the renowned Mediterranean warmth. Tourism is a major employer and strong visitor stats are welcome in the country due to the six-year economic slump.
The government was quick to seize upon the good news, with prime minister Antonis Samaras announcing the predicted statistics during a press conference to the nation.
"2013 was a record year. In 2014, every indication shows that we are going to break this record," he said, adding: "Get ready for over 20 million visitors."
Tourists are thought to have been encouraged by a tax reduction on food services by ten percentage points. Culture minister Panos Panagiotopoulos claimed that longer operating times for museums and attractions have also contributed.
Predictions of more than 20 million visitors, as provided by the Association of Greek Tourism Enterprises, have been drawn from visitor figures in April, which more than doubled in 2014 compared to last year.
Island sites on Santorini proved attractive as always, as did the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion on Crete. Visitors to ancient Olympia – the birthplace of the most historical sporting event on the planet – also appeared strong.
Of the 20 million arrivals expected in Greece this year, 2.2 million are expected to be made up of cruise ship passengers looking to explore the nation's stunning collection of islands, which contain fascinating historical sites, beautiful coves to swim in and spectacular stretches of sand.
Take full advantage of all these assets by booking a Seafarer cruise of the area that includes a full itinerary that allows you to experience the wonders of classical Greece.
Better still, avoid the crowds on once of Seafarer's trade mark mega yacht cruises that visit the smaller uncommercialised places the large cruise ships cannot reach.
Why we love cruise holidays
A new survey revealed this week that we Brits absolutely love a cruise holiday, with many claiming the ease of booking to be a primary factor. But that wasn't all – the survey from Bon Voyage actually went into a fair bit of detail, revealing that 72 per cent of participants enjoy cleaner facilities on a cruise than on other types of break. Fewer delays were cited by 64 per cent and friendlier staff by 56 per cent.
All of these are great reasons to embark on the sailing journey of a lifetime, but here at Seafarer, we've actually come up with a few more just in case you weren't persuaded. So as well as getting a reliable experience that is easy to book, you can look forward to these bonuses.
The destinations are eye-opening
Perhaps you're seeking an adventure in a far-distant and wonderful land, completely alien to the UK? Or maybe you'd rather spend your time a little closer to home, exploring the wonders of Europe. How about the pristine crescent-shaped coasts of the Maldives? Maybe the mythology of the Greek Islands? Or perhaps something completely different – the river towns of the Rhine? Whether you're a sun worshipper or a history buff, everyone can enjoy a cruise.
You can see more of the world
Who wants to stay in one place anyway? Basing yourself around a single town, city or resort for the duration of your holiday limits you to a single culture; a single beach; a single gastronomic experience. Why not make the most of your time abroad and see a little more of your chosen country? If you choose your holiday carefully, you can even squeeze in a number of nations into one trip, such as our Turkey and Greece itineraries or Italy and Malta. Travelling between ports, you'll build up a much more varied picture of the world than if you were to simply stay in one place. But you won't have to think about unpacking or packing your bag more than once.
You don't lose that holiday feeling
Participants in the Bon Voyage survey said they were pleased with how easy it is to book a cruise. But that's just the start – once you're on the ship, the emphasis is on relaxation and you're free to absolve yourself of responsibility until you return. At Seafarer, you can count on our caring, experienced and knowledgeable staff, who are on hand to answer every whim. Stretch out on deck with a book or float along in the crystal clear waters of whatever bay we happen to be moored in – and feel your troubles float away too.
Fun and varied activities
You're never stuck on a cruise ship for long and there are plenty of opportunities to explore the local culture – just as you would on any holiday. However, the difference is that aboard a cruise, you'll have a selection of fun and varied activities to do, including an extensive itinerary of events that might not be open to non-cruisers. Aboard many of our vessels, we have equipment for windsurfing, snorkelling and other marine activities. So while our cruises will be unexpected and surprising, there's one thing you can count on – you certainly won't be bored.
Brits say cruises are best holidays
When it comes to enjoying a nice holiday away from the grind of daily life, we're well aware that a cruise is easily the best way to guarantee a nice time. And it seems the Great British public is in agreement, with a new survey indicating it is the nation's favourite type of break.
The Cruise Lines Internatianal (CLIA UK) published a comprehensive list of reasons as to why this was the case, including friendlier staff, clean facilities, better entertainment, no cancellations and fewer delays than any other type of holiday.
Of the 1,438 participants, almost a third (31 per cent) indicated they are either planning to take a cruise for their next break or have already booked one. A similar proportion indicated that their preference was largely down to the stress-free process of booking a cruise.
If this survey has inspired you to take a cruise for your next holiday, why not consider a small-scale intimate experience as offered by Seafarer? We can offer the reliability and ease of booking that people love, and for an extraordinary variety of destinations.
From the nearby (Greece, Italy and Malta) to the more exotic (Indian Ocean, Thailand and the Caribbean) you can be sure of an incredible experience.
Top 5 cruise destinations for relaxation
Cruises are all about relaxation, and while there is plenty of opportunity to get active and enrich your mind with the local culture during one of our holidays, we appreciate that the main reason people want to get away from everything is so they can put their feet up and relax. Fortunately, there are plenty of destinations in our itinerary that are great for doing just that. You’ll want nothing more as you lean back on the sand in the blazing sunshine, perhaps sipping a cold drink or eating an ice cream.
If you’re looking for a great holiday where you can properly unwind, check out some of the destinations below. Don’t worry if you get tempted – there are still some great prices available for the 2014 summer season and it’s not too late to book.
Caribbean
Anyone who has seen Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean can testify to the sheer beauty of this incredible part of the world. Stunning beaches peppered with palm trees. Long stretches of gleaming white sand. Emerald forests and a laid-out vibe that is simply perfect for that holiday feeling. Stretch out in the shade, book in hand, or paddle in one of the coves – something you can do plenty of here as the cruise itineraries allow for plenty of swimming opportunities in isolated crags of the Caribbean coastline. Just relax and allow a different pace of life wash over you, buffering you like the sea gently towards your destination. Whether you want to drift serenely through the Leeward Islands or have ambitions to visit Cuba or Martinique, there’s a cruise for everyone.
Bahamas
Charismatic yet beautiful, the 29 islands that make up the Bahamas represent pure escapism. It’s one of those places where you can simply step off the map, getting away from the modern day distractions brought by an ever-present internet connection. Relaxing in a hammock, floppy and chilled, you won’t be able to resist the temptation to switch off your phone – if it’s even got signal. Close your eyes and feel the sand between your toes. Listen to calls from the surrounding wildlife. Breathe deeply – nothing can disturb you here. It’s undoubtedly a blissful experience and one that you’ll relish.
The Seychelles
What they can’t teach you about relaxation in the Seychelles simply isn’t worth knowing. As well as all the picturesque beautiful coastline you can expect, there is a dedicated culture geared towards coaxing people into a laid-back state here on this stunning collection of islands. Hopping off your cruise ship for an hour, you might find yourself taking a class in yoga, concentrating on your core and feeling happiness flood your soul. Alternatively, you might play a round of golf, get an indulgent facial or enjoy a picnic by the coast. If you’re into wildlife, it’s worth taking a trip to see giant tortoises on the beach. Slow-moving and graceful, these guys have got relaxation down to a tee. There really is no limit to what you can do on the Seychelles – provided it’s an activity geared to making you feel totally relaxed.
Greece
You don’t have to travel halfway around the world to experience a world class relaxation culture. In Greece, the blazing sunshine is enough of an encouragement to get you to take things at a more relaxed pace, particularly on the islands where we host our cruises. There’s certainly no need to rush here, as we take you through the crystal clear Aegean waters, stopping occasionally for a calming swim. Greece is our most popular destination, and as such, we have a wide range of separate tours catering for those who wish to explore its secrets. Whether you want to experience the ancient history of this fine place or perhaps combine it with a trip to Turkey, you can be sure of having a great time. One thing is absolutely certain, however. The laid-back approach to life will hook you.
Italy
Sharing many of the advantages of its neighbour Greece, Italy is often considered something of a jewel of the Mediterranean. From the big cities of Rome and Venice to the picturesque port towns that line the coast, you can expect spectacular beaches, incredible architecture and an all-round more balanced approach to life. Wonderful weather in the summer helps, of course, and our itineraries for this country have plenty of opportunity for relaxation. A trip around the Aeolian Islands, for example, will allow you to experience spectacular sunsets, pleasant paddles in the sparkling sea and other relaxation staples.
Small ship travel
It’s not just about the destinations though. One of the benefits of travelling with us is that you are able to travel aboard much smaller cruise ships than average. Not having several thousand people on the same ship allows you to enjoy a more relaxing holiday. The ship is generally a much quieter place to be, and you won’t need to fuss over cruise etiquette such as formal clothes as we have a strictly casual policy in place. Not only that but a smaller ship or catamaran allows us to visit ports that aren’t flooded with people – much smaller destinations that offer a unique insight into this particular part of the world. If this sounds like a more relaxing and preferable experience to you, then don’t delay – book your relaxing cruise holiday aboard a small vessel as soon as possible.
Cruising in the Caribbean
A trip to the Caribbean will leave you stupefied, stunned and surprised, but certainly not stressed. Considered one of the most naturally beautiful destinations of the world, the various islands of the region lay scattered off the southeast coast of the USA like a constellation. Consisting of various islets, cays, reefs and hidden corners, it is a joyous place to explore – especially if you're lucky enough to be sailing aboard one of our luxurious Star Clippers.
In full sail, these spectacular vessels look stunning against a backdrop of rolling hills and charismatic coastlines. Relaxing on deck is a blissful experience when the weather is fine – which is almost all the time besides the occasional tropical storm which is something to witness in itself.
Highlights
But enough about transportation – what can you expect from the Caribbean islands themselves? As anyone who has seen Pirates of the Caribbean will tell you, there is plenty of incredible natural beauty in the form of long lazy stretches of sand lined with palm trees. But it's a mark of how amazing this place is that this is just the start. The real secret behind the Caribbean's popularity is less to do with its incredible natural assets and more to do with the fact that this is a place where relaxation just seems to happen. Every corner is permeated with a thoroughly laid-back atmosphere that soothes you as you walk along the beach, sample great food or snorkel in crystal clear waters, discovering new forms of marine life.
Among its collection of highlights, perhaps Anguilla stands out particularly prominently. This long undulating island curls its way through the water like an eel – hence the name – and there is plenty to discover here. Sampling the local specialties in a restaurant that overlooks the coast is a particular treat. As is wandering the characteristic streets of Malliouhana, which are instantly recognisable for their bleached white appearance complemented by blocks of striking colour. But it is the beaches that really define Anguilla, and you should make the most of them while you're here.
Similarly, Nevis also makes for a very memorable visit. Dotted with old sugar plantations, it is known for the towering cliffs of the aptly named Mount Scenery. It didn't even have a road until 1951 and cars remain a rare sight. But you're not going to want to spend long in a vehicle on this incredible slice of paradise. Locate your swim gear and dive into the sparkling sea. The diving is just out of this world here, and you're sure to see plenty of sea life occupying the little reefs.
Choices
Here at Seafarer, we offer two distinct tours of the spectacular Caribbean landscape. You can choose to sail the Leeward Islands and witness the beauty of Dominica, Gustavia and the aforementioned Nevis. Or else, go completely Johnny Depp with the Treasure Islands itinerary, which encompasses the likes of Virgin Gorda, Anguilla and Norman Island.
While you can count on experiencing a relaxing atmosphere on both tours, they also offer a diverse range of activities to keep you occupied. A brisk walk through a rainforest, the chance to climb over the enormous granite boulders on Virgin Gorda or wander the streets of Malliouhana. Such activities are but a taste of what's in store with the Treasure Islands option. But choosing the Leeward Islands alternative takes you on an altogether different – but still deeply satisfying – journey.
So go on – allow the Caribbean to surprise you with its secrets.
Turkey: More than East meets West
Turkey has long had a reputation for being a place where Eastern cultures meet those of the West, often with cataclysmic consequences. This is a country that could be described as enthralling and astonishing in equal measures, and exploring it for the first time is as bewildering as trying to work Windows 8 for the first time.
While folks often discuss the hustle and bustle of Istanbul, it is important not to neglect the beautiful coastlines, which showcase many miles of natural beauty. This is where the fun is happening. From spontaneous beach parties to thriving markets that are still provisioned with goods straight off the ships in the harbour, just as they always have been.
Unique transportation
And as we're speaking of traditions, easily the most common vessel you'll see is the sailing Gulet, a two or three-sailed ship that has become iconic in coastline towns such as Bodrum and Marmaris. Constructed with wood by highly skilled craftsmen using skills passed down from man to son, there is no better way to explore this vibrant and exciting destination.
This is the vessel you'll be boarding when you start your cruise with us. Fully air-conditioned and with spacious comfortable cabins, you'll want for nothing during your trip.
But enough about the Gulet – what of the towns and cities you'll be visiting? Thanks to the vessel's smaller size, our itineraries are able to encompass a wide selection of thriving towns and hidden beauty spots that might be inaccessible to a larger cruise ship. One such programme has you first enjoying a night market in Bodrum before taking the plunge into turquoise waters around the isolated Orak Island the very next day.
A nation of contrasts
Thanks to its East meets West reputation, Turkey has acquired a reputation for being a nation of contrasts. It's something we try to accentuate on our cruises here. One moment, you might be on a deserted beach, the next in the middle of Marmaris, surrounded by people and enjoying the nightlife.
Other must-see spots include the Yedi Adalar, seven islands, a stunning spot of outstanding natural beauty that is located just off the coast. A favourite spot of regular cruisers to drop anchor, it is absolutely famed for its unspoilt views of the Turkish countryside. Of course, there is the opportunity to take a dip here, or else take a windsurfer or canoe out to take advantage of the flawless ocean.
Gastronomic delights
The East meets West comparisons don't cease when it comes to describing the gastronomic delights of Turkey. Described as a fusion of pretty much everything under the sun – Mediterranean, Balkan, Caucasian, Central Asian – there is a vast array of specialities to try here. But while commentators may try to categorise and define it under other cultures, one overwhelming fact emerges – Turkish cuisine is very much in a league of its own. Favourite dishes differ vastly from one region to the next. By the coast, you can expect to sample plenty of seafood, often dragged up the beach and freshly prepared before being served.
Exploring Turkey in a traditional Gulet cruise vessel really is the only way to get a snapshot of this wonderful and varied culture, which extends far beyond its oft-used label of East meets West. So what are you waiting for? Book your holiday now.
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