Turkey's Port Kusadası (cruise port to Ephesus) commemorated a significant achievement as it marked its 20th anniversary with a momentous occasion graced by 350 esteemed guests.
Managed by the Turkey-based GPH/Global Ports Holding (the world's largest cruise port operator), the Port stands as the flagship within this esteemed group.
Over the past two decades, Ege Port Kusadası has steadfastly maintained its stature as Turkey's foremost contender in cruise tourism, accounting for an impressive 49.3% share of the country's cruise traffic. During the pre-COVID era, this iconic port emerged as the Mediterranean's fastest-growing cruise destination.
The visionary architect behind the conception of Port Kusadası is none other than Gregory M. Kiez, the Founder of Global Ports Holding and the driving force behind the port's creation. Through his visionary leadership, Ege Port Kusadası underwent a remarkable transformation, evolving into the vibrant cruise hub it embodies today. Kiez's pioneering initiatives have not only facilitated this growth but have also laid the very foundation upon which Global Ports Holding stands.
Mehmet Kutman, Chairman & CEO of Global Ports Holding, reflected on Port Kusadası's incredible journey spanning two decades, praising Gregory M. Kiez's visionary spirit that ignited its inception in 2003. This same passion has propelled Global Ports Holding to become the world's largest cruise port operator. This year's projections for Ege Port Kusadası include a 12% increase in cruise ship calls and a remarkable 72% surge in cruise passengers compared to the previous year.
Aziz Gungor, General Manager of Ege Port Kusadası and East Med Regional Director of Global Ports Holding, emphasized the port's global eminence as a coveted transit passenger hub. He highlighted its strategic proximity to esteemed coastal treasures such as the Ephesus Ancient City and the House of the Virgin Mary. Furthermore, he pointed out that the port's operational model sets the global standard for safety, security, and health protocols.
Today, reigning as Turkey's largest and most bustling port, Ege Port Kusadası extends its services to cater to a wide range of cruise ships, accommodating everything from the largest vessels to the most luxurious ones.
Ege Port Kusadası has borne witness to numerous milestones in Turkish cruise tourism. It proudly holds the distinction of being Turkey's inaugural cruise port to attain ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 certifications. Additionally, it leads globally as a Green Port-certified cruise port.