The Princess 2010 yacht, a 24-meter vessel once frequented by revelers along Lebanon’s coastline, has shifted its purpose dramatically amid escalating conflict. With the onset of intense bombing by Israel on September 23, the $1.3 million yacht is now transporting families from Beirut to Cyprus, trading champagne for hastily packed suitcases.
Khailil Bechara, a broker coordinating evacuations, noted that demand is high for these journeys, with trips fully booked. “We have completed around 30 trips since the bombing began, with each seat costing $1,800,” he stated. Many Lebanese are desperately seeking any exit route as Israel’s military campaign has claimed nearly 2,000 lives and left over 9,000 injured since fighting erupted with Hezbollah on October 8 last year.
Despite Beirut’s airport remaining operational, the only airline currently flying is Middle East Airlines. Passengers scramble for the limited seats on available flights, while some embassies have begun chartering private planes to evacuate their citizens. Recently, Greece dispatched a military transport plane to assist in evacuating Greek and Cypriot nationals.
Social media platforms are inundated with offers for boat trips, echoing previous journeys from northern Lebanese ports to Cyprus or Italy, often overcrowded with Syrian refugees. Bechara remarked, “Many people are eager for these trips. Those who can afford it are willing to pay.” However, most Lebanese cannot afford such luxury yachts and face visa restrictions for entry into Cyprus.
Sahar Sourani, a 33-year-old NGO worker, described her family’s desperate attempts to escape Lebanon after an airstrike killed 45 people near their home. Unable to afford the boat fare or meet visa requirements, they planned to cross into Syria and fly from Jordan to Oman.
As the situation deteriorates, those attempting to flee face perilous journeys. Rasha Jabr, a consultant, recalled her anxiety as she navigated the chaotic airport during airstrikes, eventually securing a seat on a flight to the UAE. “I feel a sense of hidden guilt for being able to leave while others cannot,” she shared, reflecting the complex emotions surrounding their escape.