Starting October 11, 2024, the Turkish shipping company IDO will launch a modern ferry service using catamarans to connect Istanbul with the Bulgarian coastal city of Burgas.
This initiative is aimed primarily at tourists looking to explore Bulgaria’s beautiful coastline for a day or two.
Maria Belkoleva, chairman of the Board of Directors of “Pristanishte Burgas” EAD, announced the launch, emphasizing its potential to significantly enhance cross-border tourism.
The inaugural voyage will welcome 200 guests, predominantly from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Germany, who will have the opportunity to visit popular destinations such as Burgas, Nessebar, and Sozopol.
Belkoleva expressed optimism about the service, stating, “The idea is that starting next year, the large cruise companies that dock in Istanbul will include Burgas and the region in their one-day excursions. For this purpose, IDO’s catamarans will be utilized.”
This new ferry line is part of a broader strategy by the “Port of Burgas” to increase the volume of maritime traffic, both in terms of passenger cruises and cargo shipping.
Belkoleva highlighted the importance of the return of cruise tourism to Bulgaria, noting that major international cruise lines are considering including Bulgaria in their 2026 itineraries.
“They are hoping that the war in Ukraine will be resolved by then. Our country is an emerging and lesser-known destination for many American tourists who have already explored the Mediterranean and Caribbean routes,” she explained.
Interest in the new ferry connection is also expected from Australian and European tourists, further diversifying the potential passenger base.
Panayot Zolumov, manager of Bulgarian Sea Link Shipping Ltd., which is partnering with IDO, confirmed that by the end of this year, six trips will be scheduled between Istanbul and Burgas.
He expressed hopes for the service’s success, anticipating an increase in passenger flow if it proves popular in 2025.
“The objective is to establish a reliable and regular service between the two cities, fostering an increase in tourism,” Zolumov stated.
He also noted that many Turkish tourists holding Schengen visas are expected to use this route, adding to the economic potential of the ferry service.
Belkoleva also expressed hope that Bulgarian tourists would take an interest in catamaran excursions to Istanbul, particularly during the busy summer season.
This sentiment was echoed by Zolumov, who believes the new service will offer an exciting travel option for locals as well.
The project is being developed in collaboration with the Burgas regional structure of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCC), with chairman Georgi Dereliev actively involved alongside local tour operators.
Together, they aim to ensure that the ferry service not only meets the needs of international tourists but also resonates with Bulgarian travelers seeking new experiences.
As the launch date approaches, stakeholders remain optimistic about the positive impact this ferry connection will have on tourism and economic growth in both Istanbul and Burgas, fostering greater cultural exchange and strengthening ties between Turkey and Bulgaria.