Turkey Cruises

Turkey, a stunning bridge between the East and the West, is a treasure trove of ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural richness. With its famous landmarks like the magnificent Hagia Sophia, vibrant bazaars, and stunning coastlines along the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas, Turkey is the perfect destination for cruise enthusiasts. Did you know that Turkey is home to some of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world, including Ephesus and Pergamon? Plus, the culinary delights like baklava and kebabs are sure to leave you craving more! Embarking on a cruise to Turkey allows you to uncover these riches while enjoying the luxurious amenities of your ship—what a combo!

Major Cruise Lines Offering Exciting Itineraries to Turkey

• Princess Cruises: This cruise line has a total fleet size of 17, with 8 of their ships visiting Turkey. The Sun Princess and Island Princess are especially popular, offering passengers exceptional onboard service and various entertainment options. Most departures from Australia can happen from domestic ports like Sydney or Brisbane. For international departures, cruises often set sail from Civitavecchia (Rome) or Barcelona, making it convenient for local cruisers looking to explore Turkey while enjoying the luxurious amenities on offer.
• Holland America Line: With a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America has 4 that cruise to Turkey, including the Oosterdam and Nieuw Statendam. Known for their elegant dining experiences and enriching onboard programs, these vessels promise a delightful trip. Expect most cruises to depart from international ports such as Athens or Barcelona, providing great flexibility for travellers eager to discover the joys of Turkey.
• MSC Cruises: MSC has a total of 23 vessels with 4 offering Turkey itineraries. The MSC Splendida and MSC Fantasia are particularly noteworthy for their spacious areas and varied entertainment options. Many cruises depart from Istanbul or Bari, allowing for an easy entry into this historical and cultural paradise.
• Cunard: This luxury line has a fleet of just 4 ships, with 2 of them exploring Turkey—Queen Victoria and Queen Anne. Featuring classic and elegant interiors, Cunard focuses on premium experiences and unique itineraries. Cruises to Turkey mostly depart from Civitavecchia (Rome) or Istanbul, letting passengers embark on their grand adventure in style.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian has a fleet size of 20, with 5 ships offering itineraries to Turkey. The Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Pearl both provide a relaxed ambiance and a large variety of dining options. Most cruises depart from Athens or Istanbul, perfect for cruisers wishing to explore Turkey’s stunning coasts and vibrant cities.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines to Turkey

• Oceania Cruises: Oceania has a fleet of 8, with 5 of their ships visiting Turkey. Nautica and Marina stand out for their luxury accommodations and gourmet dining experiences. Departures typically occur from Istanbul or Athens, allowing an opulent start to your vacation in Turkey.
• Seabourn: Seabourn’s fleet consists of 6 ships, with 1 primarily sailing to Turkey, specifically Seabourn Encore. This ship offers high guest-to-staff ratios and ultra-luxurious accommodations. Departures generally take place from Athens or Fusina (Venice), ensuring a stylish adventure awaits.
• Azamara Cruises: This line has a fleet of 4, with 3 ships like Azamara Pursuit and Azamara Onward visiting Turkey. Known for its immersive itineraries and longer port stays, Azamara Cruises allows you to truly experience the local culture. Departures most often happen from Istanbul or Athens, providing exciting access to the stunning locales of Turkey.
• Silversea: Silversea’s fleet includes 12 ships, with 5 having Turkey itineraries. The Silver Muse and Silver Whisper are both renowned for their spacious suites and exceptional service and port excursions. Expect departures to occur predominantly from Athens or Fort Lauderdale, offering diverse paths to Turkey’s treasures.

Top Harbours to Experience While Cruising Turkey

• Istanbul: A city that straddles two continents, Istanbul is filled with historical wonders. Visit the iconic Hagia Sophia, take a walk through the Grand Bazaar for some shopping, or enjoy a Bosphorus cruise. With limited time, don’t miss the delicious street food such as simit (sesame bread) while immersing yourself in the local culture!
• Kuşadası: This port town is the gateway to the ancient ruins of Ephesus, which is a must-see! Explore the well-preserved amphitheatre and Library of Celsus. Enjoy some free time at the beach or visit a local bazaar to shop for souvenirs and Turkish delights before returning to your ship.
• Civitavecchia: Primarily a port for Rome, you’ll want to steal away to the Eternal City. While in Civitavecchia, enjoy sampling fresh seafood at local eateries or exploring the scenic coastal views along the waterfront—especially if you’re short on time!
• Mykonos: Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, Mykonos offers quaint streets filled with shops and restaurants. Be sure to visit the iconic windmills and take a photo at the famous Little Venice area. Take the opportunity to chill at the beach or enjoy a refreshing drink before heading back to your ship.
• Rhodes: With a rich medieval history, visit the Palace of the Grand Master and wander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. If time permits, relax at one of the nearby beautiful beaches or enjoy some local meze at a tavern.

When to Cruise Turkey

Turkey enjoys a diverse climate, making it a destination that can be explored throughout the year. From January to March, temperatures remain mild at around 8°C to 15°C; however, the popular tourist season doesn’t start until late spring. With the onset of April to June, temperatures rise between 15°C and 30°C. This period is ideal for outdoor sightseeing and experiencing local festivities. July to September is peak tourist season, with temperatures soaring up to 34°C—perfect for beach lovers and sun worshippers alike. Finally, from October to December, as temperatures drop to 10°C to 25°C, tourists can enjoy fewer crowds while still experiencing warm days, making it perfect for a cruise getaway.

The Cost of a Cruise in Turkey

When planning your Turkish cruise, expect costs for a one-week itinerary to range from $1,300 to $2,800 AUD, varying based on the cruise line and type of accommodations. Luxury cruise options can range from $4,000 to $7,000 AUD, offering lavish amenities and exclusive experiences.

If you’re a foodie at heart, meals at local restaurants typically cost between $15 to $30 AUD, and local drinks will usually set you back around $5 to $12 AUD. This allows you to indulge in authentic Turkish cuisine, including kebabs and baklava, without stressing your budget!

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Next Cruise

If you’re contemplating a journey to Turkey but want to explore alternative destinations, consider these enticing options:

• Greece – With its stunning islands and ancient ruins, Greece offers rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Discover the beauty of Santorini or the historical significance of Athens—your dream adventure starts here!
• Italy – Home to iconic cities like Rome and Florence, Italy serves up history, art, and delicious cuisine on a plate. Experience the romance of Venice or the charm of the Amalfi Coast—endless options await!
• Adriatic Sea – From the beautiful coastlines of Croatia‘s Dalmatian Coast to the stunning landscapes of Montenegro, the Adriatic Sea offers a blend of natural beauty and historical treasures.
• Croatia – Known for its medieval architecture and stunning coastline, Croatia’s cities like Dubrovnik and Split are brimming with culture, charm, and gorgeous seaside views.
• Eastern Mediterranean – Dive into a region rich with history, vibrant cultures, and beautiful landscapes. This area is home to picturesque coastlines, charming villages, and delicious local cuisines that will tantalise your taste buds!

Whether you’re drawn to Turkey’s ancient ruins or looking to explore nearby gems, booking a cruise with Cruise1st guarantees unforgettable adventures filled with cultural richness and breathtaking sights. Get ready to make lasting memories on your next cruise!