Cruises from Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul is located at the crossing point of Europe and Asia making it one of the most captivating cruise destinations. The cruises that depart from Istanbul consist of rich history, vibrant culture, and easy access to well-known European and Mediterranean locations. This cruise port has different options for every traveler, be it budget cruises from Istanbul, Turkey or all-inclusive cruises from Istanbul.

Cruise Lines Out of Istanbul, Turkey

The first port of call for major and luxury lines is Istanbul, Turkey, from where they offer sailing in various cruising styles—the family-friendly and adventure-filled, as well as the boutique river experiences.

MSC Cruises

Photo by MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises presents its up-to-date and chic ships leaving Istanbul with an itinerary mainly focused on the Mediterranean and the adjacent areas. The cruise trip includes not only the international food but also the family-friendly facilities and the pricing which is attractive to both first-time and experienced cruisers. The company’s strong European style makes it the most chosen one for the sailings from Istanbul, Turkey.

Princess Cruise Line

Photo by Princess Cruise Line

Princess Cruise Line offers high-quality services, beautiful ships, and specialized programs focusing on destinations. Turkey, Istanbul is one of the ports from which Princess has prepared its itineraries with the most remarkable considerations such as longer port stays, and enlightening tours combined with the passengers' comfort. They are very good for the curious and the cultured ones who prefer to learn and rest at the same time.

Costa Cruises

Photo by Costa Cruises

Costa Cruises vouch for an animated and Italian-themed cruise experience with abundant entertainment and regional cuisine together with the itineraries that take you deep into the local culture. The Istanbul (Turkey) - Costa cruise is a perfect match for sociable and price-conscious tourists. The cruise company emphasizes pleasure, gastronomy, and European warmth.

Royal Caribbean International

Photo by Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International adds modern shipbuilding and fun-filled facilities to the list of attractions of cruises from Istanbul, Turkey. Along with the features such as world-class entertainment, meal assortment, and family-friendly activities, it has become a place for all age travelers. The company’s routes mix exciting cruising with visiting famous places.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Photo by Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line going by the name of its “freestyle cruising” concept, offers yet again dining times and a laid-back dress code as the main features. The Norwegian line of cruises from Istanbul, Turkey presents contemporary ships, modern entertainment, and varied dining options. This cruise line can be considered the best choice for the very ones who prefer freedom and how they can be and how they can be treated in a very personal way.

AmaWaterways

Photo by AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways specializes in river cruising to high standards and gives a lot of importance on culture, food and either him or her along the waterways or at the beach activities. They are now providing the guests with the largest ship, the guided tour, and the most excellent service in the industry with a voyage that included Istanbul.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Photo by Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises give you a real river cruise experience where you can sit back and relax and enjoy the surrounding views. It focuses on cultural enrichment, gourmet dining and special excursions makes it even more special. however, here on Uniworld Boutique River Cruise, you will experience only luxury and smooth sailings from Istanbul, Turkey.

Cruise Ships Departing from Istanbul, Turkey

Below is the list of cruise liners which are departing from Istanbul, Turkey, one of the most attractive yet still not discovered by tourist’s places in the world.

MSC Lirica

Photo Courtesy

MSC Lirica ship's small size allows it to go to lesser-known ports and at the same time, it offers great facilities on board. The comfortable cabins, the international cuisine' variety and the lounges inviting the guests to relax and chat onboard are the highlights of the ship.

Costa Fortuna

Photo Courtesy

Costa Fortuna combines the best of Italian charm, high-energy entertainment, and luxurious art deco featuring the finest ocean liner of the past. Among the attractions are various restaurants, lounges with different themes, and a lively beach-like pool deck ambiance. This ship fits well for seaboard visitors who want the whole spectrum of activities along with itineraries through the old European cultures.

Enchanted Princess

Photo Courtesy

Enchanted Princess is a modern premium cruise that depicts a combination of the roomy air-light; first-class dining and Smith clinic wellness all using the latest technology. The ship attracts the passengers who value the above-mentioned features and are not very much interested in the destination as they do sailings from Istanbul with the help of the cruise company's excellent service and the leisure programs drawn from the destination.

Rhapsody of the Seas

Photo Courtesy

This ship offers a classic experience, relaxation, adventure, and entertainment all things under one roof. All cruisers can enjoy Broadway-like shows, different kinds of food, and large lounges including kids’ activities. Moreover, its cozy design makes it amazing for both couples and families.

Norwegian Viva

Photo Courtesy

Norwegian Viva is a modern ship that is Freestyle Cruising ready and giving options and comfort during the whole trip. Besides the trendy dining places, the pools of infinity and the engaging entertainment, it will be the one of the main choices they will give to the people who like modern design and the fun atmosphere aboard.

AmaBella

Photo Courtesy

AmaBella offers a river cruise that is very personal and close to nature while at the same time a strong cultural in the background and personalization of the service. The visitors can stay in large cabins; taste dishes made with local ingredients and take part in the included excursions on the shore. It is a perfect option for those who want to travel by slow and enriching means, but with a touch of a boutique hotel.

Queen Victoria

Photo Courtesy

Queen Victoria is the epitome of classic luxury with its magnificent ballrooms, elegant dining, and the most British of customs - afternoon tea. This ship is for all those who enjoy the mix of old-style cruising along with modern comforts. Its ambience is serene and sophisticated, thus, perfect for longer scenic itineraries.

Oceania Allura

Photo Courtesy

Oceania Allura is a luxury liner primarily dedicated to gourmet food and an itinerary full of destinations. With its large rooms, connoisseur dining, and extra-caring staff, it is an ideal place for people who want an all-inclusive good-quality voyage to Istanbul with cultural immersion at the ports.

S.S. Joie de Vivre

Photo Courtesy

A small-scale river cruise with the features of a European luxury setting. There is chic decor, organic from the local farms to the table dining, and organized visiting places that are really of interest. It is a wonderful option for those who demand comfort, the experience of culture, and the luxury of small but thoughtful details during their trip.

Top Cruise Destinations from Istanbul, Turkey

Cruises from Istanbul, Turkey are a great way to reach the most desired places of the world, which are well combined with the offerings of culture, history, and beautiful sailing. The cruise port of Istanbul, Turkey, one of the most famous places in the world, offers itineraries that make it easy for you to discover destinations mentioned below:

Europe

The European cruises starting in Istanbul present a variety of cultures that have been influenced by history for hundreds of years. The tourists have the chance to visit not only the lovely small coastal towns by the Adriatic, Aegean, and Black Sea but also to see the distinctive architecture and customs of every town. Moreover, there are several places which are registered as UNESCO as World Heritage sites, historical centers, and local markets with lively trade to visit. So, in case you are a history lover, cruise from Istanbul, Turkey to Europe will give you a close cultural interaction without sacrificing comfort while traveling by sea.

Mediterranean

Cruises to Mediterranean are simply the best way to enjoy both the comfort of the sea and the sightseeing, as they pass through some of the most beautiful waters. The tourists can spend some time on the islands of Greece that are kissed by the sun, go to the archaeological sites of the ancient Romans, and see the brightly-painted fishing villages of Italy, and more.

• Markets & Local Culture: If you find it hard to consider only one thing to do while visiting Istanbul, the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar might be the contenders for the spot as shopping there is an unforgettable experience due to the unreal sights, local arts and crafts, and smells of some of the world’s finest spices.
• Scenic Water Experiences: Take a soothing ride on the Bosphorus Strait, which not only the palaces the residential areas by the water but also the unique confluence of Europe and Asia as one of its rarest features.
• Health and Wellness: Let your body and soul be healed in the various treatments of the Turkish baths and savor the cleansing rituals in the old days believed to be able to rejuvenate both body and mind.
• Flavors and Food: Get a chance to taste Turkish food and street delights of all the colors, from meat and spices in kebabs to sugar and honey in baklava and also hot Turkish tea.
• Landmarks and History of the World: Time travel and see Istanbul in the first place through its ancient buildings like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, which is where the empire, art, and architecture of the past few centuries all come together.

Istanbul, Turkey Cruises Tips & Tricks

To help tourists make the most of their trip to Istanbul, Turkey cruises, we point out the best expert blog guides which cover port logistics, best sailing seasons, money-saving tips, and the attractions not to be missed. With the information provided the travelers will be able to take the best routes, get smooth embarkation, and find the hidden gems around Istanbul before they get on board the ship.

• Top Reasons to Visit Istanbul for Travelaholics