Ad for the cruise ship None Likud MK Nissim Vaturi announced a cruise for Likud activists and branch leaders for mid-September. with an a social media ad declaring: "Dear Likudniks, we are pleased to invite you to a four-day cruise to Greece between September 9-14 together with Deputy Speaker of the Knesset Nissim Vaturi, ministers, MKs, activists and branch heads. The number of seats is limited." MK Vaturi told Israel Hayom : "I'm completely in favor of Likud activists holding a political event, going on a cruise. There is no economic interest here, there is a political interest. For years, Likud MKs have been holding events and conferences. We had the "Israeli Friday," [David] Bitan's trip to Georgia, the Likudida. We have events like this all the time and there's no problem with it. It's certainly no crime." According to Vaturi, "Registration is through the company. I'm getting my ticket at the full price. I can tell you that the prices we're paying are lower. The organizers and I aren't making any money on this. I'm paying like everyone else. I'm interested in the public getting to see me." Regarding the reactions to the cruise that caused a stir, Vaturi said with a smile, "Yesterday when I got to the Knesset meeting, everyone started asking me how to register. Even members of the opposition were interested. I suggested that they move negotiations regarding the judicial reform from the President's residence to the ship." In an interview on 103FM Radio , Vaturi explained: "This is not my private event. It's meant for Likud activists and I said I would be willing to join. The ad belongs to Likud members who are holding some sort of gathering during the holidays break." "I was told that it costs about 400 euros. Every event held by the Likud, every member of the Knesset has an annual event. It is a political event. Ministers will be happy to attend with so many activists onboard. Opposition members have also asked if they can join," he added. "We are happy about the great response regarding the cruise (especially from journalists). I would like to clarify that the cruise to Greece is organized by key Likud activists, one of whom happens to be my political advisor. My picture and name were inserted as a means of activists offering their appreciations," Vaturi clarified on his Twitter account yesterday. "It appears that each person in attendance pays for himself. The cruise is intended for Likud members only. The purpose of the cruise is to solidify bonds. I am always happy to attend Likud events. I will most likely participate in this one," he wrote.
