Karpas Gate, North Cyprus to Mersin Sunday 3rd June

The Diary of Sonsy Lass
Alex & June Laidlaw
Thu 7 Jun 2012 09:12
36:46.19N 34:34.18E There has been a change to the programme as a result of a little diplomatic disagreement between Lebanon and North Cyprus, This required the rally to travel back to the Turkish mainland prior to proceeding to Lebanon. This screwed things up a little but it’s not uncommon when travelling in this fickle region. We made the early morning departure from Karpas Gate with the customary dramatic sunrise in a clear blue sky. Temperatures are currently reaching the high 80’s and sometimes hitting 90, but it is very pleasant out on the water. The winds were very light for most of the way so it was on with the engine, again, although we did get a little lift from the sails. This was a long day, entering Mersin at 1600hrs. The marina here is new and has been built and fitted out to a very high standard. We didn’t get involved in any of the little evening gatherings and welcomed an early night. Mersin is Turkey’s second largest port after Istanbul and came to prominence during the American Civil War when Europe was denied the supply of cotton. The Turks stepped in and happily filled the gap. On Monday a formal dinner was organised by the municipality and we were introduced to the mayor. The traditional folk dancing they put on was fantastic with men and woman dancing together which is unusual for a Muslim country. Unfortunately, we are still being messed about by the Lebanese. This time they have really made it clear the rally is not welcome in Lebanon as we were then intending to proceed onto to Israel. The message came via their navy, so we daren’t enter Lebanese waters as they will be tracking us. Apparently the pressure came from Syria. One would have thought they had bigger problems than 35 boats entering Jounieh. This is a major disappointment for the rally as it really screws up the programme big time and denies us a chance to see the spectacular tourist sites we were hoping to visit. It is now necessary for us to spend extra time here in Mersin and then back to North Cyprus for four days, before going directly to Haifa, Israel, on Tuesday 12th June. That is the plan but watch this space! We are fortunate here in the marina as there is a Starbucks at the end of the jetty and the parties and the informal evening gatherings still go on.

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