Dear EMYR Sailors,
Due to the political and economic climate at the present time, more than half of the participants have cancelled their participation for EMYR2013. Few of them had health problems but the major reason was the political and safety situation in the Levant area, Syria, Lebanon and continued unrest in Egypt. There are 12 yachts confirmed their participation and no confirmation received from 4 yachts ( marked with yellow colour) as listed below. As you have received the information with the previous newsletters, EMYR Rally is not visiting Syria and Lebanon. We have received reports from some insurance companies saying that they won’t cover Egypt also. The situation in Egypt is still volatile, particularly in Cairo where the museum and the Pyramids are. We also may not be allowed by the Egyptian authorities to visit Port Said from Ashkelon, from Israel but we will decide for this passage when we are in Ashkelon. In the past rallies we have organised receptions, dinners, and of course our famous pirate party in Cyprus, this year because of the drastically reduced numbers these will be of a more diminutive nature. Because of this we are able to reduce the cost to 250 euros per person. The programme will remain the same with the withdrawing of the Syria and Lebanon. We would like you to consider these amendments and reaffirm your participation. With our best wishes,