Dogus Holding gives $702m for Galataport bid

Dogus Holding has given Thursday the highest offer of USD 702 million for Istanbul's Galataport (Salipazari) bid. The bid sets forth a thirty years period of time for the transfer of operating right. Galataport, known as Salipazari port, was one of the 10 most resorted cruise harbors of Mediterranean Sea in 2011 with 420 ships and more than 627 thousand 897 passengers. Market share of the port equals to 26 percent on the basis of passengers. The harbor also attracts many cruise tourists for its affinity to the historical places such as the historical peninsula, the crowded Beyoglu region and the Galata Tower. The port is planned to become a prestigious cruise port and will increase the income through tourism with its potential.