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May 19, 2025

The year 2025 begins under the best possible circumstances for Bodrum Cruise Port, the Turkish cruise port managed by Global Ports Holding, the world’s largest cruise port operator. With the arrival of the Astoria Grande, Bodrum has officially kicked off what promises to be a record-breaking season. A total of 120 cruise ships and over 158,500 passengers are expected to arrive, marking a historic milestone both in terms of port calls and tourist numbers.

But Bodrum’s success isn’t measured by numbers alone. In addition to being an increasingly sought-after destination by international cruise lines, the port also stands out for its commitment to social responsibility and maritime training, establishing itself as a model of sustainable and inclusive development in the Eastern Mediterranean cruise industry.

The 2025 season officially started on April 3 with the arrival of the Astoria Grande, a Palau-flagged ship arriving from Amasra. On board were 756 passengers and 432 crew members. After Bodrum, the ship continued its route to Marmaris but will return to the Turkish port for two more stops during the year, underscoring the city’s growing importance as a cruise stop.

Interest in Bodrum continues to grow, as highlighted by Aziz Güngör, Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean at Global Ports Holding. According to Güngör, the arrival of 14 cruise ships making their first-ever stop in Bodrum is a clear signal of the port’s increasing prominence on the international cruise scene. This development demonstrates the growing appeal of the destination and the recognition of its strategic value by major cruise companies.

In total, the 2025 calendar includes 120 calls that will bring on board over 158,000 cruise passengers—figures never before reached by the port, representing a significant boost to the local tourism economy. Some of the world’s most prestigious cruise lines have chosen Bodrum as a stop on their itineraries, including the refined Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, the elegant Emerald Cruises, the sophisticated Silversea Cruises, and the modern MSC Explora Journeys. The presence of these operators, known for their extremely high standards of service and their attention to the passenger experience, is a clear indicator of Bodrum Cruise Port’s growing reputation as a top-tier luxury cruise destination.

The 2025 cruise season will run until mid-November, ensuring a long period of activity not just for the port but for the entire local tourism network. Among the most anticipated ships are Aroya from Aroya Cruises, which will call 13 times, and Marella Discovery 2 from Marella Cruises, also expected for 13 stops. Also noteworthy is the Resilient Lady from Virgin Voyages, which will dock at Bodrum 11 times during the season.

This variety and frequency of visits by top-tier cruise companies confirms Bodrum as one of the new cruise capitals of the Mediterranean, increasingly at the center of international routes and capable of attracting a discerning and global clientele.

Bodrum Cruise Port is proving to be not just a port of call for cruise ships, but a true nerve center for the area’s tourist and maritime traffic. As part of the extensive international network of Global Ports Holding, which manages 33 ports in 21 countries, Bodrum port stands out for its state-of-the-art infrastructure and high service standards. Equipped with a 350-meter quay that can simultaneously accommodate large ships, the port features a modern and efficient passenger terminal designed to ensure fast checks and comfort during boarding and disembarkation. The offer is completed by a wide range of ancillary services, including duty-free shops, travel agencies, restaurants, and cafés, making the port a true gateway to the local tourist experience.

Thanks to its strategic location, the port allows quick and direct connections to the city center, enabling passengers to easily immerse themselves in Bodrum’s vibrant atmosphere. The city, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, millennia-old historical heritage, and lively nightlife, asserts itself as one of the most complete and fascinating destinations in the Mediterranean, able to meet the expectations of travelers from all over the world.

One of the features that makes Bodrum Cruise Port particularly significant—beyond its logistical function—is its strong commitment to social responsibility. In fact, the port is not limited to welcoming ships and passengers but plays an active role within the local community, especially in the field of education. Thanks to collaboration with visiting cruise companies, training programs dedicated to local students are regularly organized. These projects aim to raise awareness among the younger generation about the importance of ocean conservation—a topic that is increasingly urgent in an era marked by global environmental challenges.

At the same time, these initiatives offer young people valuable opportunities to get closer to the maritime tourism world, deepening their knowledge of the cruise industry and the many professional opportunities it offers. Through these activities, Bodrum Cruise Port strengthens its bond with the local community, promoting shared growth that puts the environment, education, and the future of the region at the center.

Aziz Güngör emphasized that, in addition to its constant commitment to delivering top-quality service to cruise partners and passengers, Bodrum Cruise Port places great importance on actively involving the local community. In particular, he highlighted the significance of the educational initiatives promoted by the port, which are considered a cornerstone of its social responsibility strategy and an effective means of building lasting dialogue between the cruise industry and the territory it inhabits. These activities not only help raise environmental awareness but also reinforce Bodrum’s identity as a responsible port that looks to the future in an ethical and sustainable way.

The year 2025 is shaping up to be a historic one for Bodrum, set to break records in both the number of calls and the influx of passengers. This achievement represents not just a success for the cruise industry, but also significant benefits for the entire regional economy and tangible advantages for the local community. The arrival of an increasing number of cruise passengers will bring a substantial increase in spending at local shops, artisan boutiques, and restaurants. Gastronomic tourism and shopping are, in fact, among the main activities sought by travelers during port stops, generating immediate revenue for the local economy.

At the same time, demand will also grow for services related to hospitality and exploration of the region. Guided excursions, cultural tours, transport services, and authentic experiences in the heart of the city and surrounding areas will become increasingly popular, encouraging the development of new offerings and tourist itineraries. Equally important will be the employment impact: the expansion of cruise traffic will support the creation of numerous jobs, both direct (in the port, hospitality, and tourism services) and indirect (artisan crafts, local production, logistics). A multiplier effect that will also involve younger generations, encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation. Moreover, the rise in international traffic will further enhance Bodrum’s image as a prestigious global destination. The city, already known for its cultural heritage and natural beauty, will consolidate its role as a strategic tourism hub not only for Turkey but also for flows from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Bodrum Cruise Port is preparing to face 2025 with record numbers, prestigious international collaborations, and a clear vision of sustainable growth. The port is rapidly becoming one of the key players in Mediterranean cruising, thanks to modern management, top-level infrastructure, and a genuine commitment to the local territory.

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Angela Messineo

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