Founder, Ayan Consulting | European Commission Expert | Maritime Industry Innovator
Figen Ayan is a distinguished professional with over three decades of transformative experience in the cruise and tourism industry, distinguished by her exceptional leadership, innovative approach, and commitment to sustainable development. As a dual French-Turkish citizen born in Paris, Ayan has carved a unique path that bridges strategic port management, international policy-making, and holistic industry transformation.
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Professional Expertise
Educated at La Sorbonne and a licensed professional tourist guide, Ayan has long stood at the forefront of maritime innovation, combining operational excellence, strategic vision, and international diplomacy.
As Chief Port Officer at Galataport Istanbul (2014-2024), she led development of the world’s first underground cruise terminal, transforming Istanbul’s maritime landscape by increasing port traffic, optimizing operations, and modeling sustainable port management.
Leadership and Global Impact
As President of MedCruise Association (2021-2024), now Honorary President, she represented 150+ cruise ports across 22 countries, driving a focus on sustainability and data governance and positioning the association as a key European maritime player.
As a European Commission Expert, she provides specialized insight on sustainability and marine biodiversity, shaping EU policy and program implementation.
Entrepreneurial Vision: Ayan Consulting
Building on this experience, Ayan founded Ayan Consulting, a strategic consultancy in cruise ports, destination management, and philanthropic activities — pairing technical expertise with sustainable, socially responsible practice.
Multidimensional Professional
A licensed Somatic Experiencing® therapist, Ayan brings an innovative, compassionate perspective to industry challenges.
Key Achievements and Recognition
- Developed the world’s first underground cruise terminal at Galataport Istanbul
- Increased Galataport’s home port traffic from 13% to 58%
- President of MedCruise, the world’s largest cruise port association
- Contributor to EU-funded sustainable maritime projects
- Recipient of multiple international awards, including the EU Mission Ocean “Eco-Conscious Entrepreneur” Award
Vision and Impact
A sought-after speaker and moderator at cruise conferences, Ayan represents a new generation of leaders defining success through sustainable, innovative, human-centric solutions — continuing to shape the future of maritime and tourism through Ayan Consulting.
She invites you to join her on this journey of united action.
“With Ayan Consulting, I aim to continue making meaningful contributions to the travel and cruise industry, collaborating with private entities, governments, and kingdoms across the globe.”
Support and Lead Actions in difficult or challenging throughout the Maritime Industry.
At Ayan Consulting, we believe in leveraging our expertise for the greater good. We are dedicated to supporting and guiding individuals, empowering women, and advancing port development in challenging regions and post-conflict zones through our pro-bono initiatives.
We are dedicated in elevating conversations and discussions on travel, tourism, yachting and cruise industry to international excellence.
With a proven track record in engaging audiences and facilitating dynamic discussions, we offer expertise in multilingual speaking engagements, thanks to our proficiency in English, Turkish, and French language.
We strive to continue making meaningful contributions to the travel and cruise industry, via private or governmental companies, Kingdoms, countries and on a more private extend to the well-being of individuals.