New tourist sea voyage to be opened between Libya, Turkish Cyprus and south east Turkey

Turkey is planning to attract tourists from Libya and other southern Mediterranean countries to its southern shores via a soon-to-be-opened maritime transportation route, Turkey’s Daily Sabah reported on Sunday.

The Hatay Sea Bus (HADO), which will also serve as the sea border gate, is scheduled to start its voyages at the end of May. The first passengers will be transported from the region to the Gazimağusa (Famagusta) Port of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).

Later, the route will also serve as a sea bridge between the southern Turkish city of Hatay in Antakya and several southern Mediterranean countries, including Libya. Antakya borders Syria and shares many cultural Arab traits. Hatay had originally been a part of Syria, but Turkey annexed the region in 1939.

The article did not mention which port in Libya will be served, but it is highly likely to be the port of Misrata which already serves a route to Izmir – which recently changed destination to Istanbul

In response to customer demand, Misrata’s passenger ferry line is changed to run from Misrata to Istanbul – instead of to Izmir – LibyaHerald

Misrata Passenger Terminal receives first passenger cruiser linking Turkey, Tunisia and Egypt – LibyaHerald

Tunisian ambassador affirms desire to operate lines to Misrata Maritime Terminal | (libyaherald.com)

Misrata Maritime Terminal preparing to launch cruise trips to Istanbul after Eid | (libyaherald.com)

Benghazi port development discussed, including PPP investment model for passenger terminal and yacht marina | (libyaherald.com)

Egyptian ambassador visits Misrata, seeks increased cooperation | (libyaherald.com)