Turkey Cruise Ship Guide: Ports, Lines, Itineraries & Facilities

Turkey has been an important cruise line stop for luxury cruises but also a destination for cheap cruises for many years. Especially, Istanbul has been a great attraction point for cruises and the number of visitors coming to Istanbul on cruise lines has been increasing over the years.

This comprehensive guide provides essential information for travelers interested in cruiseships calling at Turkish ports, as well as those departing from Turkey. The main cruise ports in Turkey are Istanbul, Kuşadası (near Ephesus), Marmaris, and Izmir. These cities are also the main starting points for different cruise holidays covering ports like Rhodes, Santorini, Mykonos, Athens, Dubrovnik, Naples and Alexandria.

International Cruise Lines Calling at Turkish Ports

Turkey's rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning coastlines make it a popular destination for international cruise lines. The primary ports of call for these cruises are Istanbul (Galataport) and Kuşadası (Ege Port).

Istanbul (Galataport) Port Calls

Galataport, Istanbul's modern cruise terminal, welcomes a diverse range of international cruise lines. This port offers excellent facilities and convenient access to the city's historical and cultural attractions.

Kuşadası (Ege Port) Port Calls

Kuşadası, known as the gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus, is another significant port of call for international cruise lines. Its proximity to historical sites and a bustling town center makes it a favorite among travelers.

Cruises Departing from Turkey

Turkey also serves as an embarkation point for various cruises, offering itineraries that explore the Turkish coast, the Greek Islands, and the wider Mediterranean. The main departure ports are Istanbul (Galataport) and Izmir (Alsancak Port).

Cheap cruiseline cruises from Turkey are always available. Depending on the season, great discounts and incentives are offered to cruise customers like free travel for kids under 18 or free beverages along with already inclusive full board, gym, spa, and entertainment packages during the nights.

Istanbul (Galataport) Departures

Istanbul's Galataport is a growing hub for cruises starting their journeys from Turkey, with itineraries often extending to Greece, Italy, and beyond.

Izmir (Alsancak Port) Departures

Izmir's Alsancak Port is another significant departure point, particularly for cruises focusing on the Aegean Sea and Greek Islands.

You can also choose many cities in Europe such as Amsterdam, Stockholm, Venice, Barcelona, or Athens and enjoy an Atlantic-Mediterranean itinerary, anchoring in Istanbul as the port of disembarkation.

Itinerary Types from Turkey

Cruises departing from Turkey offer a variety of experiences:

• Aegean/Greek Islands: These itineraries typically combine Turkish ports like Istanbul, Kuşadası, and Izmir with popular Greek islands such as Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, and Crete.
• Eastern Mediterranean: Broader itineraries often include Turkey, Greece, and Italy, with stops in cities like Naples, Rome, and Venice.
• Western Mediterranean: Some longer voyages from Istanbul extend to Western Mediterranean destinations, including Spain (Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca) via Italy and France.
• Turkish Coast Only (Blue Cruises): For a more intimate experience, traditional Turkish gulet cruises (often called "Blue Cruises") depart from coastal towns like Bodrum, Marmaris, and Fethiye, focusing on secluded bays and historical sites along the Lycian Coast.

Detailed Port Information and Facilities

Understanding the facilities and transport options at each port can greatly enhance a traveler's cruise experience in Turkey.

Istanbul: Galataport

Galataport is a state-of-the-art cruise terminal located in the Karaköy district, offering a seamless and luxurious experience for cruise passengers.

If you ever end up in Istanbul by a cruise line, it means you will make your first step at the port of Karaköy, which is situated just a couple hundred meters from the Galata Tower. From the top of the Galata Tower, you can immediately start discovering one of the most famous destinations in the world. You can also take a daily tour to go further, keeping in mind that Istanbul offers you lots more and it is a kind of city that has always welcomed visitors for thousands of years.

• Terminal: The world's first underground cruise terminal, spanning 29,000 square meters, designed to handle a high volume of passengers efficiently.
• Facilities: The complex boasts an array of amenities, including duty-free shops, luxury brand boutiques, over 250 restaurants and cafes, the Istanbul Modern Museum, and the historic Tophane Clock Tower. The Peninsula Hotel is also part of the development.
• Transport:
  • Tram: The T1 Kabataş-Bağcılar tram line (Tophane station) is conveniently located right outside the port, providing easy access to Sultanahmet (Old City) in approximately 15 minutes.
  • Ferry: The Karaköy Ferry Terminal is a short 10-minute walk away, offering connections to the Asian side of Istanbul (Kadıköy/Üsküdar).
  • Walking: Many key attractions, such as the Galata Tower and İstiklal Avenue, are within comfortable walking distance from the port.

Kuşadası: Ege Port

Ege Port in Kuşadası is ideally situated in the heart of the town, making it an excellent starting point for exploring the region.

If your port of call is Izmir or Kuşadası, then you must take a daily tour to Ephesus and Selçuk area where you can see the Church of the Virgin Mary, one of the best preserved Greek and Roman ruins in the world — Ephesus — as well as the ancient cities of Miletus, Priene, Didyma, or the lovely village of Şirince that still enjoys the authenticity and traditions of Anatolian wine making.

• Terminal: The port is well-equipped to handle cruise ship arrivals and departures.
• Facilities: Directly adjacent to the port is Scala Nuova Village, a shopping mall offering various retail and dining options. There are also numerous cafes, restaurants, and a tourist information center nearby.
• Transport:
  • Ephesus: The ancient city of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a major draw. Most travelers opt for organized shore excursions or taxis, with the journey taking approximately 20-30 minutes (18 km).
  • Walking: The town center, including the vibrant Grand Bazaar and the picturesque Pigeon Island (Güvercinada), is easily accessible on foot.
  • Public Transport: "Dolmuş" (shared minibuses) are available for transport to popular areas like Ladies Beach and other local destinations.

Izmir: Alsancak Port

Izmir's Alsancak Port provides convenient access to Turkey's third-largest city, known for its modern atmosphere and historical depth.

• Terminal: The port features a modern terminal building with essential services, including cafes, duty-free shops, and tourist information.
• Facilities: The port area is surrounded by the lively Alsancak district, which offers a wide selection of dining and shopping experiences.
• Transport:
  • Walking: The famous Kordon (seafront promenade) is directly outside the port, and the Alsancak city center is a pleasant 10-15 minute walk away.
  • Taxi/Bus: Taxis are readily available at the port entrance. Public buses and the İzban commuter rail system offer further transportation options.
  • Ephesus: The ancient ruins of Ephesus are about an hour's drive (80 km) from Izmir, accessible via car or tour bus.
  • Pergamum: The ancient city of Pergamum is approximately 1.5 hours away by road.

A Cruise Holiday on a Luxurious Ship

A cruise holiday on a luxurious ship is a great experience as it is an easy and efficient way of visiting different countries in a limited amount of time. No expense spared ship building technology now makes it possible for you and your family to enjoy full tennis courts, swimming pools with retractable roofs, movie theaters, mini golf courses, and many more. Luxury liners have great offers with good old maritime attitude and service quality. Don't forget: choices are plenty!