Limassol, Cyprus – Winter 2014/2015

By Con Sprenger, SY Big Sky

Marina:

Limassol marina opened in the summer of 2014, built and operated to the highest professional standards, it completely met our requirements. The facilities are first-class, the staff is super friendly and professional. Security personnel patrols around the clock, closed circuit cameras monitor access points and entire marina; docks are accessible only by using electronic access cards.

The breakwater has been designed in such a way that even in the most severe weather conditions safety inside the marina is not compromised. During one of the winter storms we clocked 60 knots of wind, only slight wave action was noticeable in the most south-east corner, where some of the superyachts were moored, the rest of the marina experienced no waves or swell. Marina staff notified us by e-mail in advance of approaching storms, and prior to strong winds staff would ensure all boats were properly secured and continued to patrol for the entire duration of the inclement weather. During one such blow, while we were away, an extra spring line was put onto our boat for extra security by marina staff, and we were advised by e-mail.

Everything being new, the showers and toilets are the very best we have seen in the entire Mediterranean. Internet access cost extra, the charge this winter was 34 euro a month for a hi-speed fibre optics connection with unlimited data, including a Wi-Fi modem installed on your boat. All your devices can be connected and used through your own password secured connection, great for video skyping with family and friends. Other services like TV channels are also available at additional cost.

Cost is higher than in all other marina’s we have wintered in. Discounts were available this winter since there is still some building construction in progress. The construction did not in any way diminish the quiet enjoyment of the marina. Discounts might be offered again next year, contact the marina for details. http://www.limassolmarina.com/

Weather:

Our research told us that after Malta, Cyprus historically has the best winter climate in the Med. As “luck” would have it, this winter was the coldest and wettest in Cyprus of the past 25 years, cold meaning daytime averages of 11 to 15 degrees C. during January and February, the other months we enjoyed 14 to 18 degrees C. with a few days in the low twenties. October and March had us back into 20 to 25 degree C. temps. The coldest night we experienced was 2 degrees C; most times it was between 8 and 12 degrees. On the coldest day it snowed in most of Cyprus, and the small ski hill just outside Limassol went into full operation. There was no snow in Limassol marina. The rain was more frequent than usual we were told by the locals, but it never stopped us from our activities.

Location/Supplies:

Limassol Marina is surrounded by restaurants, coffee shops and upscale fashion shops, a short walk from the old town centre, with its castle and many more restaurants and tourist shops. There is a small convenience store in the marina with basic supplies. A Lidl supermarket is 1.5 km away, and Carrefour about 2 km, 5 to 10 minutes by bike or 20 to 30 minutes on foot. Larger stores and major shopping further away, local bus service is just outside the marina. There are about 4 marine stores within 2 km of the marina, also a great variety of hardware stores. All marine services are available with the exception of a sailmaker, sail repairs are possible, but at this point, there is no sail loft. The marina complex incorporates a modern fitness club, charges run around 60 to 70 euros per month. The boatyard is fully paved, has a 100-ton travel lift, working and staying on your boat while in the yard is permitted.

Air Connections/Transportation:

Paphos and Larnaca airports are about 65 km away. Paphos is mostly used by charter and discount airlines, Larnaca serviced by many full services and some discount airlines. Intercity buses depart and arrive from just outside the marina. Car rental companies are plentiful and offer very attractive rates during the winter/offseason.

Cruising Community:

This winter was the first winter of full operation for Limassol Marina, and other than one powerboat couple we were the only liveaboards. Some crew of the professionally managed boats also stayed all winter. Next year will be different, we know of at least 3 live-aboard couples who have booked for next winter, word of mouth should bring more. At this time there are no facilities offered by the marina for cruiser’s social functions, other than the coffee shops or restaurant in the marina. The marina is aware and is starting to develop a programme of organised events and hopefully in future a facility specifically for marina residents. There also is no facility for Sunday barbecues.

We have full intentions to be back next winter.

Con Sprenger

SY Big Sky

Con and his wife Barb have been cruising the Mediterranean for 8 years. Both have contributed a great many reviews to noonsite over the years. Just put “Sprenger” in the search function to find a complete list.

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