During the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that hit Turkey and northern Syria, Celestyal Cruises partnered with the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) and provided blankets and sleeping bags to residents.

“Celestyal has been taking its guests to Kusadasi and Ephesus for many years. Thus, we have a strong bond with Turkey and its people. The news of the horrific earthquake just a month ago devastated us,” said Chris Theophilides, CEO.

We believe it is a key part of Celestyal’s DNA to support local people and to be responsible corporate citizens of the places we visit. We owe it to our Turkish friends to lend a hand. In this part of the world, humanitarian efforts are so desperately needed that we can only hope that our donation of supplies will help.”

During its first voyage of the season, the Celestyal Crystal called at Kusadasi, Turkey, to transport the blankets and sleeping bags. A portion of Celestyal’s revenue from its shore excursions in Turkey will also be donated to the relief effort.

There are still over a million homeless and without basic supplies after the earthquake, which killed over 50,000 people and destroyed a large part of the city.