Turkey Cruises

Explore the Wonders of Turkey with CruiseAway

Turkey, a beautiful country bridging Europe and Asia, is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. What better way to experience this fascinating land than through a cruise that lets you explore its charming cities, ancient ruins, and breathtaking coastlines? Cruisers eager to discover Turkey are often captivated by highlights such as the iconic **Hagia Sophia**, the iconic **Blue Mosque**, and the scenic beauty of the **Turquoise Coast**. Fun fact: Turkey is home to **more than 15,000 miles of coastline**, making it a paradise for sun-seekers and adventurers alike! A cruise offers a unique opportunity to experience multiple facets of Turkey, all while enjoying luxury accommodations onboard.

Key Harbours to Visit in Turkey

When cruising to **Turkey**, you’ll have the chance to dock at several stunning harbours. Here are five of the most popular ports to visit:

• Istanbul: This vibrant city serves as Turkey’s cultural and historical heart. As you step off your cruise ship, immerse yourself in the Magic of the Old City. Don’t miss the **Hagia Sophia** and the **Grand Bazaar**—one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Insider tip: Try a traditional Turkish tea while soaking up the atmosphere at one of the local cafés!
• Kuşadası: Often used as a gateway to the ancient city of **Ephesus**, Kuşadası is known for its stunning beaches and rich history. While in town, explore the impressive **Temple of Artemis** (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World) or take a stroll through the charming streets filled with shops and eateries. Pro tip: Book an afternoon excursion to Ephesus to avoid the crowds early in the day!
• Corfu: Though technically a Greek island, Corfu is a popular stop for cruises to Turkey due to its proximity. Enjoy its lush landscapes and charming old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit **Old Fortress** for breathtaking views over the island, and don’t forget to try the local **pastitsada**, a delicious meat stew. Insider tip: Rent a bicycle and explore the stunning coastline at your own pace.
• Mykonos: Another popular Greek island often visited on Turkish itineraries. Known for its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches, Mykonos is a delightful stop. Lounge at **Paradise Beach** or explore the maze-like streets of Mykonos Town filled with shops and cafés. Pro tip: Visit the **Windmills of Mykonos** at sunset for breathtaking photographs!
• Bodrum: Nestled along the Aegean coast, Bodrum is known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. Explore its ancient castle, **Bodrum Castle**, and immerse yourself in the region’s history at the **Museum of Underwater Archaeology**. Don’t miss trying local seafood at beachside restaurants. Insider tip: Check out nearby **Gümüşlük** for a more relaxed atmosphere and stunning sunset views.

Best Times to Cruise to Turkey

The ideal time to cruise to **Turkey** is during the spring and autumn months, specifically from **April to June** and **September to October**, where temperatures typically range from **20°C to 30°C**. These months provide optimal conditions for exploration without the peak summer crowds. The summer months of **July and August** can see temperatures soar above **30°C**, attracting an influx of tourists, particularly in coastal areas, leading to higher prices. If you prefer milder weather and the chance for a more laid-back atmosphere, opt for those shoulder seasons.

Cost of Cruising in Turkey

When considering a cruise to **Turkey**, you can expect a one-week standard cruise to cost between **$1,800 to $3,500**. A two-week itinerary can range from **$3,500 to $6,500**. For luxury experiences, anticipate prices starting around **$5,000** for a one-week cruise. The lowest fares are typically found during the shoulder seasons, while peak demand during July and August sees prices hike significantly. Dining costs range from **$20 to $50** per meal, so budget accordingly depending on your culinary preferences!

Major Cruise Lines Offering Turkish Adventures

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of **17 ships**, **six** sail to Turkey, with **Sun Princess** and **Island Princess** leading the charge. Departing from **Sydney** or **Brisbane** as well as **Civitavecchia (Rome)** or **Barcelona**, Princess Cruises are known for their enriching onshore experiences, engaging entertainment options, and diverse dining that highlights local flavours on their journeys.
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet size of **23 ships**, **four** head to Turkey, including **MSC Fantasia** and **MSC Splendida**. Departures frequently occur from **Istanbul** or **Bari**. MSC is family-friendly with numerous activities for all ages, plus great entertainment and dining options that make cruising both fun and relaxing.
• Holland America Line: This cruise line operates with **11 ships**, **four** of which cruise to Turkey. Notable vessels like **Oosterdam** and **Nieuw Statendam** typically sail from **Athens** or **Barcelona**. Holland America Line focuses on enriching programming and culinary experiences that highlight local culture and special destinations, offering a blend of luxury and exploration.
• Cunard: With **four ships**, **two** cruise to Turkey—**Queen Victoria** and **Queen Anne** mainly set sail from **Civitavecchia (Rome)** or **Barcelona**. Cunard is known for its elegant atmosphere, refined dining options, and a sense of heritage onboard, making it ideal for cruisers seeking traditional luxury.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Featuring **20 ships**, that includes **five** sailing to Turkey. **Norwegian Viva** and **Norwegian Pearl** typically depart from **Athens** or **Istanbul**. Norwegian Cruise Line offers an innovative freestyle cruising experience, allowing guests more flexibility in their dining and entertainment options, making your cruising experience all about your schedule.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Viking Ocean Cruises: With a fleet of **11 ships**, **seven** sail to Turkey, among them **Viking Star** and **Viking Saturn**. These ships typically depart from **Istanbul** or **Athens** and are renowned for their immersive itineraries and culturally rich excursions designed to provide deep local insights into the destinations visited.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: This luxury cruise line operates **six ships**, with **five** travelling to Turkey, including **Seven Seas Splendor** and **Seven Seas Voyager**. Departing from **Athens** or **Istanbul**, Regent is known for its all-inclusive luxury experience, featuring exquisite accommodations, tailored services, and immersive shore excursions at every port.
• Explora Journeys: With a fleet size of **two ships**, **one ship** operates in Turkey, namely **EXPLORA I**. Departing primarily from **Athens** or **Istanbul**, Explora Journeys focus on delivering an immersive experience with innovative itineraries that offer unparalleled luxury and a sustainable approach to travel.
• Oceania Cruises: With **eight ships**, **four** of them operate cruises to Turkey, including **Nautica** and **Marina**. Departures usually occur from **Istanbul** or **Civitavecchia (Rome)**, with a focus on gastronomy and destination immersion to create a unique and rich cruising experience.
• Seabourn: This cruise line consists of **six ships**, with **one ship** offering itineraries in Turkey, specifically **Seabourn Encore**. Departing primarily from **Athens** or **Dubrovnik**, Seabourn is known for delivering a high level of personalized service onboard and exclusive excursions for guests seeking unique experiences.

Explore Alternative Regions

If a cruise to Turkey has sparked your interest but you’re curious about other equally captivating regions, consider these alternatives:

• The Mediterranean: Ideal for sun-soaked views and gorgeous coastlines, the Mediterranean encapsulates rich culture and delicious cuisine, perfect for exploring multiple vibrant nations in one journey.
• The Greek Islands: Known for their stunning landscapes and unique architecture, a voyage through the Greek Islands allows you to experience excellent Mediterranean culture while enjoying lush natural beauty.
• Southern Europe: This area boasts stunning coastlines, historical sites, and a culinary scene ripe for exploration, catering to those who appreciate a rich cultural experience.
• The Adriatic Sea: Discover charming coastal cities, stunning islands, and a blend of cultures along the beautiful shores of the Adriatic, making it a great option for an alternative adventure.
• Eastern Mediterranean: A unique blend of ancient cities and beautiful coastlines, the Eastern Mediterranean is perfect for cruisers wishing to explore stunning islands and rich history.

A cruise to Turkey offers enriching experiences from captivating ports to delectably local cuisine, providing the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Don’t hesitate—book your next trip with **CruiseAway** today and unlock the wonders that await!