News

18 June 2020 – Saga, the experts in services and products for the over 50s, today announces the completion of the previously agreed sale of Saga Sapphire to Anex Tour, a family-run Turkish tour operator.

Saga Sapphire joined the Saga fleet in April 2012, and in her eight years of cruising under the Saga flag, has provided thousands of passengers with an intimate and elegant cruising experience. In 2021, she will re-enter service as Blue Sapphire operating for Anex Tour’s new cruise line.

The current COVID-19 pandemic has prevented the send-off Saga had planned for Sapphire. Instead, Saga is celebrating by asking customers and colleagues to take part in a 2.6 challenge to complete the 8,050 nautical miles she was due to sail for her farewell cruise. The 2.6 challenge is a fundraising initiative which sees people complete a challenge linked to the numbers 2.6 or 26. That could be anything from running 2.6 miles to cycling 26 miles to doing 26 press ups. Details of the challenge will be shared on Saga’s Facebook page in the coming weeks.

Nigel Blanks, Managing Director of Saga Cruises, said:

“Saga Sapphire has been hugely popular with our guests over the past eight years. She will be missed, but we’re delighted she will be playing a starring role in Anex Tour’s new cruise offer. Launching Sapphire was an important moment, and laid the foundations for our purpose-built boutique cruise offer. We are now looking forward to an exciting new chapter for Saga Cruises as we prepare to welcome the Spirit of Adventure to our fleet in the coming months.”

Neset Kockar, Chairman of Anex Tour, said:

“I am thrilled to have our first cruise ship which is getting prepared to sail in the eastern mediterranean after a thorough rennovation. Expanding our product range in line with the needs of our customers has always been a top priority, and it is my pleasure to offer one of the most unique experiences to them.”

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ENDS

About Saga

Saga is a leading provider of products and services primarily tailored for customers over the age of 50 in the UK. The Saga brand has been carefully developed over the past 60 years to become one of the most recognised and trusted brands among UK consumers aged over 50. Saga is synonymous in the UK with the over 50s market and is recognised for its high quality products and services. These include cruises and holidays, home and motor insurance, savings and share dealing and the UK’s award winning Saga Magazine.

About ANEX Tour

ANEX Tour has been a driving force in the tourism industry since its foundation in 1996. ANEX Tour offers a comprehensive portfolio combining transport, accommodation and various travel services, including excursions and other holiday products. Due to its innovative vision, ANEX Tour is a leader in international tourism. ANEX Tour is present in 48 countries and has its own offices in 18 countries. The company employs approximately 9.000 people and has served more than four million guests annually over the last 24 years. The group is also the owner of brands Neckermann, Öger, Bucher, Air Marin and Intourist.