Starting in 2025, Greece will implement a new tax targeting cruise ships as part of a broader initiative to address the growing problem of overtourism in popular island destinations. The government has confirmed that this fee will be applied to all vessels docking at Greek ports, with the funds directed toward improving infrastructure and environmental sustainability.
A Strategic Move to Tackle Overtourism
The tax, which will range from €1 to €4 per passenger depending on the ship’s capacity, will be introduced on March 1, 2025. Greek officials have emphasized that this initiative is necessary to manage the increasing volume of cruise tourism, particularly in hotspots like Santorini, Mykonos, and Rhodes. These destinations have seen overwhelming numbers of visitors in recent years, placing significant strain on local ecosystems, services, and historical sites.
By introducing the tax, Greece aims to reduce the number of large vessels making short, high-impact stops, which typically bring crowds of visitors without contributing significantly to the local economy. Authorities believe this measure will encourage cruise lines to operate more sustainably and spend more time — and money – in each port.
What This Means for Travelers and the Cruise Industry
For travelers, the new tax will likely be included in cruise fare pricing, making it relatively seamless. The financial impact on individual passengers is expected to be minimal, but the cumulative effect for cruise operators could influence itinerary planning in the region.
This move follows similar policies already in place in other European destinations like Venice, which began charging cruise tourists to help preserve its UNESCO-listed city center. Greece’s strategy is part of a broader Mediterranean trend to ensure tourism benefits both local communities and the environment.
The Greek government has also announced that revenue from the tax will go toward improving port facilities, waste management, and crowd-control measures – all aimed at creating a more sustainable tourism experience for years to come.
With this policy, Greece is taking a firm step toward balancing its booming tourism economy with the need to protect its natural and cultural heritage.
