≡-Türkiye Set to Welcome Over Two Million Cruise Tourists by End of this Year, Strengthening its Maritime Tourism Growth – Viral of Today

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September 4, 2025Turkish Travel Agencies Association (TÜRSAB) president Firuz Bağlıkaya has declared that Türkiye will surpass 2 million cruise visitors by the end of 2025, with a potential to equal or even outrank the record of 2.2 million in 2013. This is a big milestone for the country’s cruise tourism industry, which has been regaining pace in the post-pandemic period.Bağlıkaya noted that the sector’s future growth is subject to a number of determinants such as tourism infrastructure and local security. The strategic geographical location of Türkiye positions it as a preferred destination for cruise tourism, notably in the Eastern Mediterranean, Aegean, and Black Sea routes.Significant Growth in Cruise Ship ArrivalsAccording to data from the Turkish Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, 675 cruise ships brought over 1 million passengers to Türkiye between January and July 2025, representing a 19% annual increase. This growth is part of a broader global recovery in cruise tourism, which has rebounded strongly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Globally, the number of cruise tourists has reached 35 million, a 5 million increase from pre-pandemic levels.Türkiye’s Strategic Location Boosting Cruise TourismBağlıkaya highlighted that Türkiye’s position at the crossroads of three major seas—the Aegean, Mediterranean, and Black Sea—gives it a strong competitive edge in the global cruise tourism market. The country’s major ports, such as Kuşadası, İzmir, and Bodrum, have become regular stops for international cruise lines traveling through the Aegean and Mediterranean, helping to enhance Türkiye’s appeal as a key cruise destination.Istanbul as a Key Departure PortOne of the most significant developments in Türkiye’s cruise tourism has been the shift of İstanbul from a mere stopover to a central cruise hub. Bağlıkaya emphasized the importance of İstanbul Galataport, which has played a pivotal role in this transition. The facility has made it possible for cruise ship tours to begin and end in Istanbul, allowing tourists to experience the city first-hand, which in turn boosts the local economy across a wide range of sectors.As Istanbul continues to attract international cruise lines as a main departure port, Türkiye is cementing its role as a leading destination for cruise tourism in the region, offering easy access to iconic cultural sites, historic landmarks, and beautiful coastal areas.High Spending Potential of Cruise TouristsCruise tourists are known for their high spending potential, with many engaging in a variety of tourism activities beyond just sightseeing. Bağlıkaya noted that MICE tourism (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) and health tourism are becoming increasingly popular among cruise visitors to Türkiye. The country’s well-developed infrastructure, luxury services, and access to natural healing resources make it an ideal destination for these niche tourism markets.The influx of high-spending cruise tourists contributes to local economies, creating opportunities for businesses in hospitality, tourism services, and retail. As cruise lines continue to include Türkiye in their itineraries, these tourism-related sectors will continue to benefit.Cruise Tourism as a Key Component of Türkiye’s Tourism StrategyBağlıkaya’s comments reflect the growing importance of cruise tourism within Türkiye’s broader tourism strategy. The government’s commitment to enhancing tourism infrastructure, including the expansion of ports and the development of new tourism offerings, will help ensure the sector’s growth in the coming years. The emphasis on sustainable tourism and the creation of high-quality experiences for international visitors will strengthen Türkiye’s competitive position in the global tourism market.The Role of Regional Security and Infrastructure in Tourism GrowthBağlıkaya also pointed out that while Türkiye’s tourism sector is booming, the growth of cruise tourism also depends on regional security and infrastructure development. Ensuring that ports are equipped with modern facilities, maintaining a safe environment for travelers, and improving logistical connections between ports and key tourist sites are all crucial elements in making Türkiye an attractive destination for international cruise lines.Türkiye’s Bright Future in Cruise TourismWith the cruiseship tourist figure projected to surpass 2 million by 2025, Türkiye is well on track to regaining its position as among the best cruise tourism destinations in the world. Its geographical position, combined with its world-class ports such as İstanbul Galataport and Kuşadası, positions it as a hub port for cruise lines operating in the Eastern Mediterranean. The rise in high-spending travelers, the move toward sustainable tourism, and the focus on regional cooperation will ensure that Türkiye continues to be at the forefront of the developing global cruise tourism sector. As the industry keeps on growing, it is set to make a significant contribution to the wider tourism sector in Türkiye as well as stimulate economic growth throughout the region.

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