Galataport Istanbul is celebrating the arrival of Aroya Cruises at its cruise terminal for a second homeporting season.

According to a social media update, the Aroya arrived at the port in early June for a series of 15 cruises departing from Istanbul.

Visiting various destinations in Turkey, the operation will have significant impact on the cruise industry in the country, Galataport Istanbul added.

The ship’s season in the region runs through September 12, 2026, and includes a series of seven-night cruises that also sail to Greece and Egypt.

Aroya Cruises and Galataport Istanbul management teams were recently at the cruise terminal to celebrate their partnership and inspect the cruise terminal.

“Aroya Cruises’ preference for Galataport Istanbul as its main port again and increasing the number of voyages to 15 reveals Istanbul’s strategic position and increasing attractiveness in cruise tourism,” said Erdem Tavas, a member of the board of directors of the cruise terminal operator.

“Galataport Istanbul, which is not just a port but offers a complete Istanbul experience with gastronomy and shopping opportunities, has become our primary choice with its contribution to the city’s transformation into a strong port in the Mediterranean,” said Aroya Cruises’ President Sture Myrmell.

As part of its first operation outside the Middle East, the company debuted at the port in late June 2025, kicking off its inaugural season in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Galataport Istanbul also said that the number of cruise lines using the city as a homeport increased by 50 percent in the last three years.

The operator added that the milestone is a reflection of its “world-class competence and the momentum it has brought to the city.”

According to the update, 35,000 Turkish citizens are expected to board cruise ships in Istanbul this year, a 70 percent growth compared to 2025.