Comparison of the World's longest swimming marathons in terms of economic benefits and destination potential: The case of Yumurtalık-Iskenderun, Turkey

In this article, the opportunities offered by the Yumurtalık-İskenderun Open Sea Swimming Marathon in terms of economy and sports tourism are examined as the region's potential to become an essential centre among international swimming destinations. The study compares the Yumurtalık-İskenderun swimming marathon in Turkey with other world-renowned swimming marathons such as the English Channel between France and England, Capri-Napoli in Italy, Kalamata-Koroni in Greece and Lake Ohrid in Macedonia-Albania. These comparisons are based on economic benefits, geographical features, historical context and ecological sustainability. First, a literature review was conducted, and then the results obtained by comparative analysis of the destinations were written. The marathon's economic, environmental and social impacts are examined in detail, and regional advantages are evaluated. In addition, the contribution of international swimming destinations to the local economy and tourism is investigated, and the future potential of the Yumurtalık-Iskenderun marathon is emphasised. The results show that the Yumurtalık-Iskenderun Swimming Marathon, with its 39-kilometre course, has the potential to be an attractive international destination thanks to the strategic location of İskenderun port, the region's natural beauties, historical richness, calm sea conditions and cultural heritage.