Cruise & Ferry Review - Spring/Summer 2023

103 common and sustainable value, and we have directed our projects accordingly. “Thanks to our experienced staff, IDO offers a reliable and comfortable passenger experience, a positive journey for passengers who are tired and bored of spending time in traffic. Our ferry services allow them to escape the traffic, take a break and travel much more economically than via alternative routes. We are increasing the variety and quality of services we offer to our passengers, including improving food and beverage services onboard our ships and at terminals with products of much more affordable price and quality.” IDO has also adapted its services in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. “With the pandemic, the rate of digital conversion has increased so we have grown our investments in digital transformation to minimise contact and meet passenger demands,” says Orhan. “We have developed the İDO Arabalı mobile application, where we can make online sales for our Eskihisar-Topçular and Sirkeci-Harem lines. Passengers can buy a ticket and travel on the day and time of their choice without waiting at the ticket office. The app also provides navigation support, allowing the passenger to see the distance to the nearest pier and determine their quickest route to the terminal.” As a company that carries 35 million passengers a year, IDO regularly publishes compelling advertisements outlining the importance of keeping natural environments clean, especially the sea. “Our company goal includes achieving a reduction in the consumption of resources such as electricity and fuel,” says Orhan. “We receive Zero Waste Certificates at our terminals in line with the objectives of protecting aquatic life and climate action. We organise waste management and environmental awareness training for our employees every year and we have activities aimed at raising the awareness not only of IDO employees, but also of our subcontractors and even our passengers.” In addition, IDO is working to increase marine sector employment opportunities for women. “We provide internship opportunities to students from universities, colleges and vocational high schools that offer a maritime education in different cities of Turkey,” says Orhan. “Here, too, we give priority to female students when selecting intern students in line with the United Nations’ Women’s Empowerment Principles.” “ Our ferry services allow people to escape the traffic, take a break and travel much more economically”

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