Which Royal Caribbean cruises visit Turkey?

Discover Why Turkey Is a Highlight of Royal Caribbean Cruises

Turkey is one of the most captivating destinations in the Eastern Mediterranean, known for its mix of ancient wonders, vibrant markets, seaside villages, and cultural richness. Royal Caribbean includes Turkey in several of its Europe and Mediterranean itineraries, primarily focusing on ports such as Kusadasi (gateway to Ephesus) and Istanbul, with some itineraries occasionally including Bodrum or Antalya depending on the season.

What makes Turkey so special on a Royal Caribbean cruise is how seamlessly it connects with other Mediterranean favorites. You’ll often find Turkey paired with Greece, Cyprus, Israel, Italy, or the Adriatic coast, allowing travelers to experience multiple cultures in one incredible journey. Royal Caribbean designs these itineraries to suit every type of traveler — whether you love ancient ruins, flavorful cuisine, shopping, beaches, or historical architecture.

In this detailed guide, you’ll learn which Royal Caribbean cruises visit Turkey, which ships sail these routes, what ports are included, and how to choose the best itinerary for your travel style. We'll also explore the unique blend of experiences waiting at each Turkish port.

1. Royal Caribbean Itineraries That Visit Turkey

Royal Caribbean features a variety of Eastern Mediterranean and Europe itineraries that include ports in Turkey. These itineraries generally operate during spring, summer, and early fall, taking advantage of warm weather and long sightseeing days.

Eastern Mediterranean Routes Including Turkey

Eastern Mediterranean itineraries are among the most popular routes for visiting Turkey. These trips typically depart from ports such as Athens (Piraeus), Rome, or Barcelona, and often combine Greece and Turkey for a well-balanced cultural experience.

Greece + Turkey Combination Itineraries

These itineraries usually include:

• Kusadasi (Ephesus)

• Istanbul

• Santorini

• Mykonos

• AthensThis route is ideal for travelers who want ancient history, beaches, and vibrant city life in a single trip.

Mediterranean & Aegean Sea Routes

Some RC routes focus on both the Mediterranean Sea and the Aegean Sea, often stopping in:

• Kusadasi

• Rhodes

• Crete

• CyprusThese itineraries attract travelers seeking diverse coastal destinations and scenic landscapes.

Longer Mediterranean Journeys Featuring Turkey

Royal Caribbean occasionally offers longer sailings (10–12+ nights) designed for travelers wanting deeper immersion.

Italy–Greece–Turkey Grand Routes

These extended routes combine multiple countries and can include:

• Rome (Civitavecchia)

• Naples

• Athens

• Kusadasi

• Istanbul

• Santorini or Mykonos

This is ideal for travelers who want iconic European landmarks and Turkish history in one vacation.

Holy Land + Turkey Itineraries

In select seasons, cruises include both Turkey and Israel, appealing to travelers interested in biblical history, ancient cities, and Mediterranean settings.

Seasonal & Specialty Sailings That Include Turkey

Depending on deployment, Royal Caribbean sometimes features seasonal repositioning or specialty routes that touch Turkish ports.

Repositioning Cruises With Turkish Calls

Occasionally, ships reposition between Europe, the Middle East, or Asia, and Turkey serves as an excellent stopover.

Fall Cultural Immersion Routes

These sailings feature cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making places like Ephesus and Istanbul even more enjoyable.

2. Turkey Ports Visited by Royal Caribbean Ships

Royal Caribbean includes a few standout ports across Turkey. Each one offers a different flavor of the country’s history, culture, and charm.

Kusadasi (Gateway to Ephesus)

This is the most common Turkish port on Royal Caribbean itineraries. Kusadasi is famous for:

• The ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Roman sites in the world

• The House of the Virgin Mary

• Traditional Turkish bazaars

• Beautiful coastal scenery

Ephesus Shore Excursions

Visiting Ephesus is a highlight for nearly every traveler. Excursions often include:

• The Library of Celsus

• The Great Theatre

• Marble-paved ancient streets

• Terrace houses with frescoes

This port is ideal for travelers who love archaeology, religion, and ancient civilizations.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a gem on any Royal Caribbean itinerary thanks to its:

• Blend of European and Asian influences

• Iconic sites like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque

• Grand Bazaar shopping

• Historic palaces and mosques

Cultural Highlights

Royal Caribbean excursions highlight Istanbul’s multicultural heritage through experiences like:

• Bosphorus cruises

• Turkish cuisine tastings

• Mosque and palace tours

• Market visits and spice tastings

Istanbul offers a beauty and energy that no other port can replicate.

Bodrum (Occasional Itineraries)

Depending on ship deployment, Royal Caribbean sometimes includes Bodrum for travelers seeking:

• Turquoise beaches

• Ancient ruins

• Seaside promenades

• Aegean architecture

Why Travelers Love Bodrum

This resort-style port is perfect for sun lovers and cultural explorers alike, with medieval castles and classical ruins nearby.

3. Royal Caribbean Ships That Sail to Turkey

Not all Royal Caribbean ships visit Turkey every year, but several classes frequently appear in Turkish itineraries.

Radiance Class Ships

Radiance-class ships are smaller and more maneuverable, making them ideal for Eastern Mediterranean ports. They offer:

• Ocean-facing glass walls

• Elegant dining options

• Relaxed environmentsThey often operate routes including:

• Greece

• Turkey

• Cyprus

• Israel

Vision Class Ships

Vision-class ships are another popular choice due to their size and versatility. They are well-suited for ports like Kusadasi, Rhodes, and Santorini.

Oasis and Quantum Class Ships (Occasional)

Although larger ships are less common in Turkey due to port limitations, select seasons may see:

• Quantum-class ships visiting Kusadasi

• Larger ships included in combination itinerariesThese offer features like skydiving simulators, robotic bars, and expansive entertainment.

Seasonal Deployment Notes

Royal Caribbean adjusts its European deployment yearly, so the specific ships visiting Turkey may change depending on:

• Market demand

• New ship introductions

• Repositioning requirements

4. Highlights of Visiting Turkey on a Royal Caribbean Cruise

Travelers love Turkey for its rich mixture of history, culture, scenery, and cuisine. Here’s what makes a Turkish port visit unforgettable.

Ancient Ruins and Archaeology

Turkey offers some of the most impressive archaeological sites accessible through cruise excursions.

Ephesus: A Major Attraction

Ephesus is often the highlight of the entire Mediterranean cruise for many travelers, thanks to its well-preserved monuments and fascinating history. Walking through this ancient city often feels like stepping into a different century.

Cultural Fusion and Architecture

Turkey boasts:

• Byzantine churches

• Ottoman palaces

• Roman amphitheaters

• Greek temples

Istanbul’s Unique Blend

From the Blue Mosque to the Grand Bazaar, Istanbul showcases centuries of artistic and architectural evolution.

Local Cuisine and Culinary Experiences

Royal Caribbean excursions often highlight Turkish flavors such as:

• Kebabs

• Baklava

• Turkish delight

• Meze spreads

• Strong, flavorful Turkish tea and coffee

Food Markets and Tastings

Travelers can sample regional dishes at markets or enjoy full culinary tours with local chefs.

Scenic Coastlines

Turkey’s coastline is known for its:

• Clear blue waters

• Rocky cliffs

• Golden beaches

Bodrum’s Stunning Shores

For beach lovers, Bodrum offers some of the best coastal scenery in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Shopping and Handcrafted Goods

Turkey is a dreamland for shoppers, especially those seeking:

• Spices

• Leather goods

• Ceramics

• Textiles

• Jewelry

Bazaar Experiences

Nothing beats the lively charm of markets in Istanbul or the bazaars of Kusadasi.

5. Choosing the Best Royal Caribbean Itinerary With Turkey

Picking the perfect itinerary depends on what type of traveler you are. Turkey offers diverse experiences that fit every travel style.

Best for History Lovers

Choose itineraries including:

• Kusadasi (Ephesus)

• Istanbul

• AthensThese destinations deliver unmatched ancient sites and cultural experiences.

Best for First-Time Mediterranean Travelers

Select a Greece + Turkey route for a balanced introduction to the region.

Best for Beach and Nature Lovers

Pick cruises that include Bodrum or Rhodes along with Turkish ports.

Best for Longer Vacations

Extended itineraries that combine Italy, Greece, and Turkey offer the richest diversity.