The collaboration highlights the strong momentum of the cruise sector in recent years, with 2.138 million cruise passengers arriving in Turkey in 2025. The goal for the 2025-2027 period, marked by successes and new records, is to further strengthen Turkey’s global position and ensure a sustainable increase in passenger numbers.
Strengthening Istanbul’s Homeport Status
A strategic priority for ensuring sustainable growth and increasing the added value to the country’s tourism is to strengthen Istanbul’s position as a ‘homeport’ in cruise operations. Thanks to Galataport Istanbul’s robust operational infrastructure and a general passenger satisfaction rate reaching 98%, the number of homeport passengers is expected to triple by 2026 compared to 2024. This increase will achieve a 50%-50% balance between homeport and transit passengers for the first time in history.
The ‘Istanbul Model’ Takes Center Stage
This milestone demonstrates that Istanbul is not merely a port of call but a powerful hub, positioned as both a starting and ending point for cruises. The ‘Istanbul Model,’ which integrates airline connectivity with port operational capabilities, adds a new dimension to the city’s competitiveness in cruise tourism.
The two powerful brands will once again share a joint stand at the fair this year, aiming to encourage more cruise companies to include Istanbul in their itineraries. Throughout the fair, the ‘flight + port’ integration, one of the biggest advantages supporting Istanbul’s homeport potential, will be presented to international stakeholders.
Turkish Airlines’ Global Network Boosts Istanbul’s Appeal
Turkish Airlines will promote travel alternatives that support Istanbul’s homeport potential with its strong flight network, global connection capacity, and extensive reach, particularly in the American market, which accounts for 25% of cruise tourists arriving at Galataport Istanbul.
This collaboration extends beyond short-term growth targets, reflecting a vision to shape the dynamics of Istanbul’s cruise tourism in the 2030s.
Source: https://www.istanbulgazetesi.com.tr/kruvaziyer-turizminde-istanbul-modeli
