Figen Ayan brings more than thirty years of leadership to the cruise, luxury travel and maritime industries, combining visionary strategy with landmark execution. She has played a leading role in the development of six cruise ports across three countries, foremost among them Galataport Istanbul, the $1.7 billion waterfront landmark and home to the world's first underground cruise terminal, which she guided from conception to operation as Chief Port Officer from 2014 to 2024.
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A dual French and Turkish citizen, born in Paris and educated at La Sorbonne, Figen served as President of the MedCruise Association from 2021 to 2024, and remains its Honorary President today. Representing more than 160 ports across 22 countries, MedCruise advanced port collaboration and sustainable tourism under her leadership. She also contributes to the European Commission as an Expert to the Mission Restore our Ocean and Waters by 2030.
As Founder of Ayan Consulting and a Seatrade Ambassador for Port Innovation and Community Engagement, she advises governments, ports, cruise lines and luxury hospitality leaders on sustainable, community-driven and future-ready strategies, bridging established global brands with emerging markets. Her perspective is global, her track record extraordinary, and her passion for purposeful travel infectious.