Momentum in the Turkish cruise sector, which saw its best year in over a decade in 2025, was maintained in the first five months of the year as both cruise arrivals and passenger numbers continued to increase, according to a report on Thursday.
While there was around a 2.2% rise in cruise ship dockings, the passenger figures surged around 4% compared to the same period a year earlier, a report by Anadolu Agency (AA) indicated.
Accordingly, cruise ships that offer accommodation, food, drink and entertainment services together brought some 455,580 tourists to Türkiye from January through May, the report said.
The sector, which provides economic contributions to port cities, particularly those on the western coast, but also in Istanbul and the Black Sea, has been expanding in recent years, complementing overall tourist arrivals to the country.
Cruise ships with spacious interiors are generally used for luxury vacations and travel. These passenger ships, offering comfort and various entertainment options, feature large dining halls, entertainment areas, pools, spa facilities and various activity areas, not falling short of five-star hotels.
