Galataport Istanbul expands cruise operations, pioneers winter tourism
An aerial view of Galataport Istanbul shows multiple cruise ships docked along the Bosphorus, in Istanbul, Türkiye. (Photo via LinkedIn/galataport-i̇stanbul)
Galataport Istanbul, a premier cruise port on the Bosphorus, is aiming for a significant expansion in 2025. It is anticipating a 37% increase in ship arrivals, taking the total to 225, and a 46% rise in passenger numbers, reaching approximately 585,000 visitors.
In 2024, the port welcomed 164 cruise ships and 400,000 passengers, but for the first time, Galataport is set to introduce winter cruise tourism to Istanbul.
As part of this initiative, the port will host MSC Sinfonia, one of Europe‘s largest cruise ships, every Wednesday until April 2025, offering passengers a unique opportunity to experience Istanbul in the off-season.
‘Cruise passengers boost national economy by up to 6 times’
In a LinkedIn post on Monday, Galataport Istanbul highlighted its patented “Special Hydraulic System Cover” and “Underground Cruise Terminal” technologies, which create a temporary customs area, streamlining passenger flow and enhancing Istanbul’s appeal as a key cruise destination.
Cruise passengers who use Istanbul as a home port contribute up to six times more to the national economy compared to regular tourists, as they spend additional time exploring the city before or after their trips, the statement remarked.
Galataport also has strategic partnerships with Turkish Airlines, the world’s most internationally connected airline, and Istanbul Airport, a major regional transport hub, further strengthening its position in the cruise tourism sector.
Meanwhile, on Dec. 18, a 49% stake in Galataport owned by Turkish conglomerate Dogus Holding was agreed to be transferred to five Turkish banks as part of a financial restructuring deal for $1.1 billion in debt.
