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Need for a VISA for port visit

Can I do a day tour from a cruise ship independently? The last line of the description makes me wonder if we need to use a ship excursion.

"While you do need to have a passport when traveling overseas, special arrangements are made by the large cruise lines to facilitate their passengers’ shore excursions. These special arrangements eliminate the potential for loss or theft of passengers’ passports while shopping and touring, and eliminate the need for passengers to obtain individual visitor visas from Turkey. U.S. citizens do typically need an e-visa to enter Turkey, but cruise ship passengers are permitted to come ashore without a visa for day visits by special arrangements."

Posted by
8293 posts

If you already have a cruise booked, contact the cruise line and ask.

Posted by
242 posts

I did call, but they couldn't explain what "by special arrangements" means.

Posted by
8293 posts

That is outrageous. Call again and ask to speak to someone in authority. Tell us the cruise line so we can all know how unhelpful they are.

Posted by
16893 posts

A Turkish visitor visa is not a big deal, easy for US citizens to buy online. However, this FAQ says you don't need it: https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/info/

According to the Law on Foreigners and International Protection which entered into force on 11th April 2014, those foreigners who arrive at sea ports and intend to visit the seaport city or nearby provinces for touristic purpose are exempt from visa provided that their stay does not exceed seventy two (72) hours. However, if you arrive in/depart from our country by air for your cruise tour, you must obtain a visa.

Posted by
3387 posts

It literally takes 5 minutes to obtain a visa for Turkey online and it's not expensive. I think this is the easiest way.

Posted by
182 posts

I also recommend getting the visa. It costs around $25 and you get it online instantly. Def worth it to have the visa just to avoid any issues.