Türkiye is reinforcing its position as a strategic hub in global cruise tourism as passenger numbers reach record levels worldwide and demand continues to grow across the Mediterranean, according to industry data and officials.
Global cruise passenger numbers reached 37.2 million in 2025, marking an all-time high, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).
The association’s latest Cruise Industry Status Report projects that global cruise passengers will rise to 38.3 million in 2026 and nearly 42 million by 2029, driven by expanding fleet capacity and sustained consumer demand.
Industry expansion is being led by strong demand in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Asia-Pacific (APAC) regions, with the Mediterranean alone hosting 5.96 million passengers in 2025.
The region recorded a 3.4% annual increase, reinforcing its status as one of the world’s leading cruise destinations.
“This confirms the strength of the market and the importance of Istanbul as a homeport for Mediterranean itineraries,” said AROYA Cruises President Sture Myrmell.
Istanbul is increasingly becoming a key homeport in the Mediterranean cruise network, supported by infrastructure investments and its strategic location connecting Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Myrmell stated that Mediterranean routes are central to the company’s international growth strategy and that Türkiye plays a vital role in these plans.
He also highlighted the growing connection between the Mediterranean, the Gulf region, and Türkiye.
“Türkiye’s success both as a destination and as a homeport market further strengthens its role in the Mediterranean,” he told Anadolu Agency (AA).
According to Myrmell, Istanbul’s strong connectivity with Saudi Arabia and the wider Gulf region is a major advantage, particularly for cruise passengers traveling from Gulf countries.
He added that Galataport Istanbul provides an ideal homeport infrastructure, combining modern cruise facilities with one of the city’s most attractive waterfront destinations.
AROYA Cruises will launch Istanbul-based seasonal cruise operations on June 6, offering seven-night Mediterranean itineraries departing from Istanbul.
Myrmell emphasized that Galataport has transformed Istanbul from a popular tourism destination into one of the Mediterranean’s leading cruise homeports.
The port integrates cruise operations with shopping, dining, and waterfront experiences, encouraging travelers to make Istanbul a key part of their overall journey.
Looking at current reservation and occupancy rates, Myrmell expressed confidence in a strong cruise season ahead.
