After relocating to Limassol in 1974, the Famagusta Nautical Club has returned to the Famagusta district through a partnership with Ayia Napa Marina and Pedalion Yachting. The initiative will introduce sailing lessons, athlete training and nautical competitions in eastern Cyprus.

Activities at the marina will include offshore and dinghy sailing lessons, canoe and kayak sessions, and stand-up paddleboarding programmes. The programme will also support young athletes and host local and international competitions.

Pedalion Yachting will contribute additional experience as well as an international outlook to the initiative and create new opportunities between nautical sports, marine tourism and the region’s growth.

Stelios Charalambous, president of the Famagusta Nautical Club, said: “For us, this return marks a milestone in our journey and an invaluable opportunity to reconnect with our roots. The fact that we are returning to the Famagusta district with two distinguished partners by our side fills us with emotion and optimism for the future.

Charalambous added that the club hopes the partnership will support the development of future athletes and bring the organisation closer to returning to Tzeri Island, where it was based before 1974.

Konstantinos Papaloukas, founder of Pedalion Yachting, stated: “This vision has become real after three years of collaborative work. Our goal is to promote nautical sports both locally and across Cyprus, provide children in the region with access to high-level training and utilise the knowledge and experience of our occupied city’s highly awarded club.”

Papaloukas said the initiative also reflects the region’s history and identity following the displacement of residents from Famagusta and nearby villages. He said the partnership aims to help younger generations develop in the sport and support the hosting of international events at Ayia Napa Marina.

Papaloukas also thanked the Famagusta Nautical Club, Ayia Napa Marina and the mayor of Ayia Napa for their cooperation and support.

Ayia Napa Marina

Located on the southeastern coast of Cyprus, Ayia Napa Marina has capacity for 600 vessels, including 360 wet berths for yachts up to 110 metres, 160 covered dry stack storage spaces for boats up to 10 metres and 80 dry dock spaces. The site also has a boatyard, helipad, floating docks, waterfront dining venues, retail outlets, wellness facilities and residential properties.

Amr El Adawy, deputy CEO and CFO of Ayia Napa Marina, stated: “The return of the Famagusta Nautical Club to its natural home is an exceptionally symbolic moment. We are particularly pleased to host an organisation with such an important history and remarkable achievements. We believe its presence will further enhance the marina and contribute to establishing the region as a centre for nautical sports in the Eastern Mediterranean.”

Images from Ayia Napa Marina and Famagusta Nautical Club.