Galataport Istanbul, a new cruise and lifestyle destination on the Bosphorus in Istanbul, welcomed its first ship, SeaDream II, on Oct. 1. Approximately 150 passengers and crew from Bulgaria Varna arrived at 10 a.m. for a two-day homeport operation before continuing to Bulgaria Burgaz.
“It is a momentous occasion as our Galataport Istanbul Cruise Port begins operation to welcome our first cruise passengers,” said Figen Ayan, chief port officer, Galataport Istanbul. “We have dedicated ourselves to creating a welcoming, safe and remarkable visitor experience for all passengers in our world-class cruise facilities and to providing a wealth of lifestyle experiences for our guests to enjoy while staying in port. Characterized as a ‘main port,’ Galataport Istanbul will vitalize cruise ship tourism over a large area from the Mediterranean basin to the Black Sea.”
Galataport is home to the world’s first underground cruise ship terminal and can accommodate three ships and 15,000 passengers a day, including ships that can host up to 8,000 passengers and crew. A unique hatch system creates a temporary customs area while a ship is in port; the hatch system converts Istanbul’s port into a promenade. When a ship departs, the coastline is left free.
“For several years our past guests have voiced their interest for SeaDream to return to Turkey,” said Emilio R. Freeman, vice president, Itineraries & Destinations, SeaDream Yacht Club “As a result, our entire SeaDream team has been working for many months on arrival to Istanbul, one of the most popular ports of call in the Mediterranean. While it has been a very trying year for the restart of cruising, we give thanks to the partnership we have with Galataport Istanbul and, especially Figen Ayan who has greatly helped make this occasion a reality. We are thrilled to bring our cruise guests to this amazing cruise and lifestyle facility.”
Read This Next
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Apr 26, 2024The Bishop’s Lodge’s Bunkhouse: A Rustic, Historic Getaway
Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a small town that’s big on historic landmarks, buildings, parks and Western lore. Many of its most fascinating structures also happen to be hotels, including Bishop’s Lodge, which extends the city’s specific charms from the streets into the public areas and private suites and rooms. While most of the properties within historic buildings are upscale, Bishop’s Lodge is now a member of Auberge Resorts Collection thanks to a painstaking restoration, luxury appointments, commitment to personal service and wide range of exclusive activities.
Sponsored Content
Exclusive Savings: Cruise Along the Danube River with Global Traveler
Exclusive Sailing with Global Traveler
Daily
Apr 26, 2024Book the Ultimate Summer Escape at Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen
Plan your 2024 summer vacation to Mexico. Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen offers travelers special experiences this summer, as well as an all-inclusive offer. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, your significant other or solo, this resort has something for everyone.
Daily
Apr 26, 2024Jamaica Gears Up for Summer with New Hotels and Experiences
Just in time for summer, Jamaica is easier to enjoy than ever thanks to new hotels and excursions. This Caribbean island has never been more alive than this year, and this summer is to be its best one yet.
Sponsored Content
Why Buy Trip Cancellation Insurance?
Don’t risk losing all the money you’ve spent if you must cancel your trip at the last minute. Allianz Travel Insurance can give you:
Daily
Apr 25, 2024Former Massachusetts Glasses Factory Transforms into New Hotel
In the late 1800s, eyeglass manufacturer George Washington Wells became the founder and owner of the largest eyeglass company in the town by merging with several smaller lens manufacturers in Southbridge, Massachusetts. By the early 1900s, Wells was running the largest eyeglass manufacturing company in the world, owning several factories in Southbridge and occupying more than 80 acres on both sides of the Quinebaug River. It was called the American Optical Company, known locally in town as “AO.”
Hôtel Royal Unveils evian SPA, the First in Europe
Daily
Apr 25, 2024Fairfield by Marriott Phnom Penh Review
eFlyer Reviews
Apr 24, 2024Wolf by Vanderpump Opens at Harveys Lake Tahoe
Daily
Apr 24, 2024eFlyer News
Apr 24, 2024Lufthansa’s Allegris Takes Off May 1
Lufthansa’s new travel experience on long-haul routes starts its scheduled service May 1. Allegris is the airline’s new cabin, marking a new era for Lufthansa. Allegris sees updates and changes to economy, premium economy and business class, with a planned first-class cabin later this year.
Sponsored Content
Revel in a European Summer with AmaWaterways
Pedal through sun-drenched vineyards, hike amidst blooming wildflowers and take a refreshing dip in your ship's sun-deck whirlpool. Indulge in the flavors of the region with delectable dishes featuring luscious Wachau Valley apricots and succulent Serbian plums. As night falls, watch as the cities along the rivers come alive, pulsating with an irresistible electric energy. The sun-soaked days and vibrant nights offer a compelling reason to embark on an AmaWaterways river cruise during the upcoming summer months.
eFlyer News
Apr 24, 2024IHG Hotels & Resorts Introduces 12 New Properties to Vignette Collection in 2024
IHG Hotels & Resorts welcomes 12 new properties to its brand-new luxury and lifestyle brand, Vignette Collection. Vignette Collection is a curation of distinct, hand-picked hotels, each offering one-of-a-kind stays from beachfront resorts to boutique townhouses.
ShareThis