M/S Halas 71 is today the only ship in working order which witnessed the Gallipoli Battles…
Carrying the traces of a hundred years of history, it is expected to serve tourism for long years to come. Let’s take a glance at the remarkable historical events that the ship witnessed during its journey from Scotland to Istanbul:
It has been constructed by Fairfield Shipping Co. in Glasgow in 1914 but its delivery has been postponed due to WWI by the British Government. Following the end of the war, it has served to British Navy for four years. Then, it has been purchased by Sirket-i Hayriye and renamed as Halas, meaning “liberation”. It served as a public ferry for 65 years until 1984 when the first renovation has been realized by a private company that purchased it. In 2009, it has been transformed into a luxury cruise by its new owners, Mustafa and Caroline N. Koc. With its 120 person accommodation capacity onboard and 24 person accommodation capacity with its 12 double cabins, it can be hired for special activities all year-round. Up to date, it has welcomed many high-level guests and managed to gain the appreciation of all its guests, thanks to its historical background, refined decoration, tailor-made services, and tasty menus.