Cyprus : Profile

Facts

The Republic of Cyprus (the southern part of the island of Cyprus), and Larnaca in particular, is a useful stop for long-distance cruising yachts. Many of these reach Cyprus after transiting the Suez Canal, while others sail to Cyprus from other parts of the Mediterranean before moving on to Greece and Turkey. It should be noted however that with such demand berths are at a premium and advance reservations should be made to avoid disappointment.
The Republic of Cyprus is now a member of the European Union.
Lacking natural harbours and anchorages, Cyprus has always been an island to visit for its ports, rather than to cruise around. This has been made even more necessary by the ongoing conflict between Cyprus and Turkey (following the latter's occupation of the northern part of the island in 1974) which has reduced the few cruising attractions that the island had in the past. However, the reputation of Cyprus as an excellent base for repairs and reprovisioning has ensured its continuing popularity.
The northern "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" has not been recognised by any other countries except Turkey. The Republic of Cyprus, which controls 60 per cent of the island, is internationally recognised as the government of Cyprus.

Cyprus has an island climate with daily breezes that can get strong in the afternoons. It is usually calm at night. The prevailing wind direction is westerly (up to F7) and there are occasional easterly gales in the winter. The summers are very hot and humid with temperatures up to 101°F (40°C) in July and August. The winters are generally mild and pleasantly sunny. September to November are usually the best months for cruising.