Turkey cruise tourism hits new records in May and June 2026

Turkey's cruise sector reported strong growth in early 2026. In May, the number of cruise ships calling at Turkish ports rose 14.2% to 169, carrying 257,897 passengers, while the January‑May period saw 324 ships and 455,580 passengers, up 2.2% and 3.9% respectively.

Kuşadası’s Ege Port recorded a record June influx, welcoming 95,393 visitors (66,863 passengers and 28,530 crew) from 30 large cruise vessels. Istanbul strengthened its role as a home‑port, handling 66 ships in the first five months and attracting significant tourist spending.

The data, released by the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure’s Directorate of Maritime Affairs, underscores Turkey’s expanding position in Eastern Mediterranean cruise tourism.