Increase in Cruise Tourist Numbers by 11%

Increase in Cruise Tourist Numbers by 11%

Increase in Cruise Tourist Numbers by 11%

In the period from January to May 2024, the number of cruise tourists traveling to and from Turkey increased by 11%. According to data compiled by Tourism Databank from the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, the number of cruise tourists visiting Turkey rose from 297,000 to 331,000, facilitated by 264 cruise ships.

Leading Ports for Cruise Passengers
During this period, the most visited ports by cruise tourists were Kuşadası and Istanbul. Kuşadası stood out with approximately 175,000 visitors, while Istanbul followed with around 58,000. Other significant ports included İzmir, Samsun, Amasra, Çanakkale, and Trabzon.

Key Points:
Kuşadası: Leading port with 175,000 cruise tourists.
Istanbul: Second most visited port with 58,000 tourists.
Other Ports: Significant cruise traffic also recorded in İzmir, Samsun, Amasra, Çanakkale, and Trabzon.

Overview
The increase in cruise tourism is a positive indicator for Turkey's tourism sector, highlighting the country's appeal as a destination for international travelers. This growth reflects the rising popularity of Turkey's diverse cultural and historical attractions accessible via its major ports.

The 11% increase in cruise tourist numbers in the first five months of 2024 underscores Turkey's growing prominence in the global cruise tourism market. With leading ports like Kuşadası and Istanbul attracting significant numbers of visitors, Turkey continues to strengthen its position as a top destination for cruise travelers.