Turkey Cruises

Discover Turkey: A Cruising Adventure Awaits

Turkey is a mesmerizing fusion of East and West, where stunning coastlines, ancient ruins, and vibrant cultures come together to create an unforgettable travel experience. Cruising through Turkey allows you to explore iconic cities, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history—all while enjoying the comforts of a floating hotel. Fun fact: Turkey is home to the first known city, Çatalhöyük, which dates back to approximately 7500 BC! Whether you are exploring bustling bazaars or unwinding on beautiful beaches, a cruise to Turkey is bound to be a remarkable journey.

Top Harbours to Explore in Turkey

During your Turkish cruise, these harbours offer a wealth of experiences that showcase the heart of the region:

Exploring Nearby Harbours

In addition to the highlights within Turkey, there are also spectacular harbours outside of Turkey that are typically visited before or after your cruise:

Choosing the Best Season for a Turkish Cruise

The ideal time to explore Turkey on a cruise is from April to November when temperatures generally range from 15°C to 30°C. During these months, you can enjoy warm weather and longer daylight hours, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. If you prefer fewer crowds and milder temperatures, consider cruising from October to March; although temperatures can drop to 5°C to 15°C, it offers an opportunity to experience a quieter side of Turkey without the bustling tourist season.

Cruise Costs for Turkey

When it comes to pricing for cruises to Turkey, you can expect the following ranges: a 1-week cruise typically starts from $1,500 to $3,500 for standard cruises, while luxury options can range from $4,500 to $8,000. If you’re considering a 2-week cruise, the price can rise to $2,500 to $6,000 for standard options, and $9,000 or more for lavish experiences. The best deals usually tend to pop up during the shoulder seasons of late April to June and September, whereas peak prices are often seen during the summer months. Dining in Turkey typically costs around $20 to $50 for a meal, and drinks can range from $5 to $15, depending on the location.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Journeys to Turkey

• Princess Cruises
  Princess has a fleet of 17 ships, with 6 offering itineraries that visit Turkey, primarily the Sun Princess and Island Princess. Departures generally occur from Sydney or Brisbane for domestic options, as well as from international ports like Civitavecchia (Rome) and Barcelona. Known for its onboard entertainment and exceptional service, Princess is well-loved for delivering enjoyable experiences tailored for cruisers of all ages.
• Holland America Line
  This cruise line operates with a fleet of 11 ships, featuring four that sail to Turkey, including Oosterdam and Nieuw Statendam. Departures most often take place from Athens or Barcelona. Holland America prioritises cultural immersion, ensuring that guests engage meaningfully with local destinations through curated experiences and expert-led excursions.
• MSC Cruises
  MSC operates a fleet of 23 ships, with 4 visiting Turkey, including MSC Fantasia and MSC Divina. Most departures are from Istanbul or Bari. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and extensive onboard activities, MSC provides a dynamic cruising experience that appeals to cruisers of all ages, making it perfect for family trips.
• Cunard Line
  With 4 ships in its fleet, Cunard features Queen Victoria and Queen Anne as the exclusive cruisers to Turkey. Departures typically originate from Civitavecchia (Rome) or Barcelona. Renowned for its luxurious atmosphere, exquisite dining, and afternoon tea traditions, Cunard promises a sophisticated and memorable cruising experience.
• Norwegian Cruise Line
  NCL’s fleet of 20 includes 4 ships that cruise to Turkey, such as Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Pearl. Most cruises depart from Istanbul or Athens, making it a convenient choice for those wanting to explore both destinations. Known for its freestyle cruising offering, guests enjoy the flexibility of choosing dining and entertainment options at their leisure.

Luxury and Small Ship Options for Turkey Cruises

• Viking Ocean Cruises
  With a fleet size of 11 ships, 7 of which visit Turkey, Viking Ocean includes Viking Saturn and Viking Star. Most cruises depart from Istanbul or Athens, and Viking is distinguished by its intimate onboard experience, comprehensive itineraries, and inclusive shore excursions that provide guests with unique cultural insights at each destination.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
  Regent features a fleet of 6 ships, with 5 dedicated to Turkey itineraries, particularly Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Voyager, departing most often from Athens or Istanbul. Regarded as one of the premier luxury cruise lines, Regent boasts all-inclusive luxury with personalised service, exquisite dining, and immersive experiences at stunning destinations.
• Azamara Cruises
  With 4 ships in its fleet, Azamara has all its vessels visiting Turkey, including Azamara Onward and Azamara Pursuit. Departures are frequent from Athens or Istanbul. Azamara is well-known for its focus on destination immersion, allowing guests to dive deeper into local cultures through extended stays in port and well-planned excursions.
• Seabourn
  Seabourn’s fleet consists of 6 ships, with Seabourn Encore being offered in Turkey. Most departures occur from Athens or Dubrovnik. Seabourn provides an ultra-luxurious experience coupled with exceptional service, ensuring every guest feels pampered and well cared for during the journey.
• Explora Journeys
  With a fleet of 2 ships, Explora offers 1 ship cruising to Turkey: EXPLORA I. Departing most often from Athens or Istanbul, Explora emphasises transformative travel experiences, engaging guests in unique, culturally rich itineraries designed to create lasting memories.

Consider These Alternative Regions for Your Next Cruise

If Turkey has sparked your interest, consider exploring these alternative regions for your next cruise adventure:

• Greek Islands: The idyllic beauty of the Greek Islands offers crystal-clear waters, stunning sunsets, and delicious local cuisine. Ideal for those who love beach relaxation and exploring charming towns full of history and culture.
• Adriatic Sea: Known for its picturesque coastlines and vibrant cultures, the Adriatic Sea is a haven for sailing and exploration. Discover enchanting cities like Dubrovnik and Split while enjoying stunning natural landscapes that mesmerise every traveller.
• Amalfi Coast: Famous for its dramatic cliffs and charming villages, the Amalfi Coast teems with beauty, culinary delights, and rich cultural experiences, making it a desirable addition for those who appreciate scenic cruising paired with delightful Italian charm.
• Alaska: For those seeking natural beauty and wildlife encounters, Alaska offers stunning glaciers, majestic mountains, and an abundance of outdoor activities, ensuring adventurous cruisers have an unforgettable journey.
• Black Sea: The Black Sea region provides a unique blend of cultures and breathtaking landscapes. Explore historical towns and diverse ecosystems, perfect for cruisers eager to explore lesser-known destinations with deep historical roots.

Book a cruise to Turkey with CruiseAway today and embark on an unforgettable adventure through this unique blend of culture, history, and stunning landscapes!