Türkiye’s cruise tourism industry is celebrating another milestone as the Saudi-owned Aroya cruise ship docked in Marmaris, carrying 2,684 passengers to the vibrant coastal town. This marks a new chapter for Türkiye’s growing cruise market, as Aroya Cruises becomes the first Arab-owned cruise line to include Turkish ports in its itineraries. For Marmaris, a hotspot on the Aegean coast, the ship’s arrival highlights its rising importance as a must-visit destination for premium cruise travelers worldwide.
Aroya Cruises: Redefining the Cruise Experience
Aroya Cruises, part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, is designed to offer travelers a distinctly Arab-style luxury experience while catering to international guests. The Aroya ship is a floating resort featuring 29 restaurants, 20 entertainment venues, and luxury amenities that appeal to travelers of all ages. Onboard facilities include a world-class spa, two swimming pools, and one of the largest children’s play areas in the industry, making it a top choice for families.
Guests seeking adventure can enjoy activities like zip lining, mini-golf, and exclusive cultural programs, ensuring that every journey is memorable. With a strong focus on blending regional culture with global standards of luxury, Aroya Cruises is redefining what travelers expect from a modern cruise vacation.
The ship sails popular Eastern Mediterranean routes, stopping in Türkiye’s Bodrum, Kas, and Marmaris, as well as international destinations like Greece’s Mykonos, Rhodes, and Crete, and Egypt’s Alexandria. Its six- and seven-night itineraries provide the perfect balance of cultural exploration, relaxation, and high-end comfort, attracting both regional and international travelers.
Cruise Tourism in Türkiye Hits Record Highs
The arrival of the Aroya cruise ship comes at a time when Türkiye’s cruise sector is experiencing unprecedented growth. In the first seven months of 2025, 18 ports across the country welcomed 1.05 million passengers, the highest figure since 2013. July alone saw 326,450 cruise tourists, the largest monthly number recorded in the past 12 years.
This surge is the result of strategic investments in port infrastructure and marketing campaigns positioning Türkiye as a leading global cruise destination. Cities like Istanbul, Kusadasi, Bodrum, and Marmaris are now key stops for major cruise lines, attracting travelers from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Marmaris, with its scenic harbor, vibrant markets, and rich history, has quickly become one of the most popular ports of call. Passengers often spend their days exploring the old bazaar, the charming Kaleici neighborhood, or enjoying local excursions before returning to their ship in the evening.
Economic Impact for Marmaris and Beyond
The docking of the Aroya cruise ship in Marmaris delivers a major boost to the local economy. Cruise passengers contribute significantly to the tourism sector, spending on guided tours, restaurants, transportation, and shopping during their stay. This spending supports jobs in hospitality, retail, and service industries, ensuring that cruise tourism generates benefits that extend well beyond the port.
For Marmaris, the partnership with Aroya Cruises enhances its reputation as a premium Mediterranean destination while driving consistent visitor growth. Future stops planned for Bodrum and other Turkish ports will further solidify the region’s status as a strategic hub for international cruise routes.
A Strategic Vision for Cruise Growth
The success of Aroya’s arrival aligns closely with Türkiye’s broader tourism goals. The government has been actively promoting cruise tourism through strategic initiatives aimed at expanding infrastructure, streamlining port operations, and diversifying itineraries to attract more global cruise brands.
Under these initiatives, ports along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts are being upgraded to handle larger ships and accommodate a growing number of passengers. This focus on sustainable development ensures that the rapid growth of the industry benefits local communities while preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Türkiye’s coastlines.
The Role of Aroya Cruises in Regional Tourism
Aroya Cruises is not just a new name in the cruise industry; it represents a new era for regional tourism in the Middle East and Mediterranean. By combining luxury with a cultural experience rooted in Arab hospitality, Aroya appeals to both regional travelers seeking familiarity and international guests looking for unique experiences.
For Türkiye, this partnership brings added visibility and prestige. As Aroya integrates Marmaris, Bodrum, and other ports into its regular itineraries, the country stands to benefit from a steady stream of high-spending travelers eager to explore its coastal cities, cuisine, and attractions.
Innovation Driving Future Growth
As cruise tourism expands, innovation will be key to sustaining momentum. The integration of new technologies, eco-friendly practices, and unique shore excursions will make Türkiye even more competitive in the global market. From digital booking systems to environmentally friendly port facilities, investments in innovation are already shaping the future of the sector.
The Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism has also been working closely with international cruise operators to create joint marketing campaigns that highlight Türkiye’s blend of modern attractions and deep cultural history. These efforts aim to position Türkiye as a year-round destination for both short and extended cruises.
Looking Ahead
With the global cruise market expected to grow steadily over the next decade, Türkiye is well-positioned to capture a larger share of the market. The arrival of Aroya Cruises underscores the country’s ability to attract new players and offer travelers exceptional experiences.
As more ships include Turkish ports in their itineraries, the economic impact on local communities will continue to grow, creating new opportunities for businesses and workers alike. For travelers, the combination of luxury amenities, cultural excursions, and scenic coastlines makes Türkiye an irresistible destination in the global cruise landscape.
Conclusion
The docking of the Aroya cruise ship in Marmaris is more than just a milestone for the local port — it’s a sign of Türkiye’s rising status as a global leader in cruise tourism. With its luxurious facilities, diverse itineraries, and focus on cultural authenticity, Aroya Cruises enhances the country’s appeal for travelers seeking unforgettable journeys.
As Türkiye continues to invest in its cruise infrastructure and expand its partnerships with international operators, the future of its cruise industry looks brighter than ever. From Marmaris to Bodrum and beyond, Türkiye is set to become a top destination for cruise passengers from around the world.
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