Turkey Reaches Record 1.5 Million Cruise Passengers in First Eight Months of 2025 – Focus on Travel News
Turkey has recorded a historic rise in cruise tourism, hosting 1.5 million passengers across 18 ports between January and August 2025. The figure marks the country’s highest level in 12 years, according to Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy.
The surge in cruise traffic highlights Turkey’s growing role as both a transit and home port destination. Officials point to a steady increase in routes and port investments, which have attracted more cruise operators and extended passenger stays in the country.
Passenger and Cruise Call Growth
Data released by the ministry show that cruise calls reached 878 in 2025, a 17% increase from 753 in 2024. Passenger arrivals also rose sharply, up 56% compared to 2023 and 18% from 2024. In August alone, Turkish ports handled 357,646 passengers, setting a record for the highest monthly total.
Minister Ersoy said the rising number of cruises choosing Turkey as their main port is especially significant. “This means that foreign visitors stay longer in our country,” said Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, Culture and Tourism Minister. He added that the trend benefits not only national tourism income but also the economies and cultural vitality of port cities.
Key Ports and Infrastructure Investments
Kuşadası and Istanbul remain leading ports for cruise tourism, but other cities such as Çanakkale, Sinop, Trabzon, Samsun, and Marmaris are also emerging as important stops. Galataport Istanbul has played a central role in strengthening Turkey’s cruise appeal, offering modern facilities and a strategic position on Mediterranean and Black Sea routes.
The minister acknowledged the contribution of the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure in expanding port capacity and upgrading facilities. These efforts have helped Turkey maintain competitiveness in attracting international cruise lines.
Global Context and Future Outlook
The cruise tourism boom comes as global demand for cruise travel continues to rebound after years of disruption. Turkey’s geographical position, connecting the Mediterranean, Aegean, and Black Sea regions, places it at an advantage in capturing new itineraries.
Government officials emphasize that Turkey is no longer just a regional hub but a rising global destination for cruise tourism. “With the vision of #TürkiyeYüzyılı, our growth in cruise tourism will continue without slowing down. Turkey has now become one of the world’s most attractive destinations in cruise tourism,” said Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, Culture and Tourism Minister.
Industry observers expect cruise arrivals to keep growing as operators add more routes and passengers seek varied destinations. With upgraded port infrastructure and a diversified offering of coastal cities, Turkey is positioned to consolidate its record-setting momentum in the years ahead.
