Greece Introduces 20-Euro Fee for Cruise Passengers
Greece is set to impose a 20-euro fee on cruise passengers visiting the renowned islands of Mykonos and Santorini, as announced by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on September 8. This decision comes as Santorini, famous for its breathtaking sunsets, faces increasing pressure from the cruise industry, leading authorities to consider measures to manage overtourism effectively.
Managing Overtourism in Santorini and Mykonos
During a press conference, Mitsotakis stated, "Greece does not have a structural problem of overtourism. It has a problem in certain destinations, certain weeks or months of the year." The Prime Minister highlighted the significant impact of the cruise industry on these popular islands, noting that 800 cruise ships brought approximately 1.3 million passengers to Santorini in 2023, a stark contrast to the island's resident population of just 15,500.
Future Measures and Quotas
To further address the issue, the government is considering implementing quotas on the number of ships that can dock at these destinations simultaneously. Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni has indicated that local authorities have already set a limit of 8,000 cruise passengers per day for Santorini in the upcoming year. As Greece anticipates another record year in tourism, these measures aim to balance visitor numbers with the preservation of the islands' infrastructure and natural beauty.
- In 2023, Greece welcomed a record 32.7 million tourists, with 3.4 million visiting Santorini alone, accounting for one in ten visitors. Despite facing challenges such as wildfires and heatwaves, the tourism sector remains optimistic about continued growth in 2024. The government is actively seeking ways to manage tourist flow to ensure sustainable tourism practices while maintaining the allure of these iconic destinations.
