Welcome to our midweek round-up of the latest news and updates from Fethiye and across Turkey.
Curated from various news sources
Cabotage Day Celebrated with Enthusiasm in Fethiye
The 99th anniversary of July 1st Maritime and Cabotage Day was celebrated with pride and enthusiasm in Fethiye, starting with a ceremony held in Beşkaza Square.
The event was attended by Fethiye Deputy Governor Mesut Yakuta, Deputy Mayor Oğuz Bolelli, Fethiye Port President Çetin Çiftçi, İMEAK Chamber of Shipping Fethiye Branch President İlkay Tugay, Fethiye Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Osman Çıralı, AK Party Fethiye District President Kadir Sarıhan, along with presidents and representatives of various maritime cooperatives. The programme began with a wreath-laying at the Atatürk Monument.
Following the official ceremony, Fethiye Port President Çetin Çiftçi delivered a speech highlighting the historical significance of the day. He noted that the Cabotage Law, enacted on 1 July 1926, marked a critical milestone in Turkish maritime history:
“1 July 1926 is the victory of the War of Independence at sea. With the Cabotage Law, foreign powers lost their privileges in our waters, and the right to carry cargo and passengers along our coasts was rightfully returned to Turkish-flagged ships and citizens of the Republic of Turkey. It is a day of rebirth for our maritime sector, a day of joy, pride, and celebration.”
After the speeches, protocol members boarded boats from Fethiye Port and set out to sea, where they laid a wreath in memory of martyred sailors.
Fethiye Deputy District Governor Mesut Yakuta, speaking after the ceremony, said:
“We came together for the celebrations and honoured our martyrs by placing a wreath in the sea. Happy July 1st Maritime and Cabotage Day to all.”
İMEAK Chamber of Shipping Fethiye Branch President İlkay Tugay also shared his thoughts, stating:
“Our events began with the morning ceremony and continued with the sea tribute. For us sailors, July 1st is a symbol of existence. If we are able to trade freely within Turkey’s borders today, we owe it to this law.”
Cabotage Day events continued throughout the day with a range of activities, including shows and competitions, celebrating Turkey’s maritime sovereignty and heritage.
Source: https://www.fethiyetv.com/fethiyede-kabotaj-bayrami-coskusu-torenle-basladi
22nd Göcek–Gürsu–Pırnaz Yayla Walk Completed
The 22nd Traditional Göcek–Gürsu–Pırnaz Yayla Walk, following the historic path of Yörük culture, was successfully completed. The walk began in Göcek and continued through Gürsu before reaching its final point at Pırnaz Plateau (Salabaa).
Dozens of participants joined the event, which covered challenging mountain trails, forest paths, and traditional Yörük routes. Along the way, walkers had the chance to experience the region’s natural beauty, including scenic landscapes, pine forests, and highland views.
The event, which highlights the centuries-old migration route of nomadic Yörük communities, continues to be an important cultural tradition in the area. It not only promotes physical activity and outdoor exploration but also helps keep local heritage alive.
Organisers thanked all participants for their support and spirit, and expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the smooth running of the event.
Source: Fethiye Belediyesi
Enforcement Continues on Scooter and Motor Vehicle Violations in Şehit Fethi Bey Park
Despite clear warning signs placed throughout Şehit Fethi Bey Park, some individuals continue to enter pedestrian paths using electric scooters and motorized vehicles. In response, our police teams are maintaining strict enforcement and issuing fines to those who disregard the rules.
These walking paths are designed to be safe spaces where children can play freely and citizens can walk, relax, and enjoy the park in peace. The presence of motorised vehicles poses a serious risk to the safety of pedestrians, particularly young children.
We urge all visitors to respect the rules and help protect this shared space. Please avoid using electric vehicles in designated walking areas. Together, let’s keep Şehit Fethi Bey Park safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Source: Fethiye Belediyesi
Fethiye Police Teams Actively Monitoring Public Spaces During Summer Season
With the arrival of the summer season, Fethiye Municipality has increased inspections in busy public areas such as beaches, squares, and markets through both civilian and uniformed police teams.
In response to rising activity in these areas, the Municipal Police Department has been taking firm action on several issues:
📌 Penalties are being imposed on the sale of unhealthy food and unsafe toys, which pose a risk to public health.
📌 Action is being taken against individuals exploiting public sympathy through begging or other means for unfair profit.
📌 Violations involving pavement occupation and illegal parking are also being addressed.
Police teams will continue their presence in the field throughout the season to help ensure that both residents and visitors in Fethiye enjoy a safe, peaceful, and healthy summer.
Source: Fethiye Belediyesi
Paragliding Takes Off in Fethiye: Babadağ Sees 8% Growth in 2025
Ölüdeniz Babadağ, one of the world’s top paragliding destinations, has seen an 8% increase in flights in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year. A total of 59,131 paragliding flights were recorded between January and June, with Chinese tourists once again leading among foreign visitors, continuing a trend seen over the past three years.
Paragliding enthusiasts, both local and international, continue to flock to Fethiye Babadağ to experience the thrill of flight and take in panoramic views of Ölüdeniz. Tourists reach the 1,700-metre launch point via cable car, with options for tandem (37,724 flights) and solo (21,407 flights) paragliding experiences.
According to data shared by the Fethiye Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FTSO), there were 54,919 total flights during the same period in 2024. FTSO President Osman Çıralı highlighted the positive impact of promotional efforts in China, which have contributed significantly to increased interest from Chinese tourists.
“A total of 59,131 flights were made in the first 6 months of 2025. The number was 54,919 in the same period of 2024. As in the past three years, Chinese tourists are again leading among foreign visitors,” said President Çıralı. “Despite the global economic slowdown, Babadağ remains a top choice for paragliding lovers.”
Flight statistics by nationality for the first half of 2025 are as follows:
- Turkish tourists: 20,200 flights
- Chinese tourists: 11,243 flights
- Russian tourists: 8,664 flights
- British tourists: 8,002 flights
- German tourists: 2,016 flights
- French tourists: 827 flights
- Polish tourists: 520 flights
- Ukrainian tourists: 417 flights
Çıralı also noted that the FTSO’s ongoing international promotional efforts aim to further increase interest in the region’s paragliding tourism, with a target of surpassing 200,000 flights by the end of 2025.
Source: https://www.fethiyetv.com/fethiyede-yamac-parasutu-bereketi
4.3-Magnitude Earthquake Hits Gemlik, Felt in Istanbul and Surrounding Areas
A 4.3-magnitude earthquake struck Gemlik, a district in Bursa Province, northwestern Türkiye, at 1:57 p.m. The tremor was also felt in Istanbul and nearby regions, causing brief concern among residents.
So far, there have been no reports of damage or casualties. Authorities are actively monitoring the situation and have advised the public to remain calm and adhere to safety guidelines.
Gemlik, located about 90 kilometers south of Istanbul along the Sea of Marmara coast, lies within a region known for its seismic activity.
Source: Daily Sabah
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