5 Destinations That Could Soon Impose Restrictions on Cruise Ships

The cruise industry is set to witness unprecedented changes as cities around the world tackle the challenges posed by over-tourism. With a staggering increase in cruise passengers anticipated—35 million in 2024, up from 31.7 million in 2023—popular destinations are reassessing their approach to handling the influx of tourists.

Several cities have begun implementing restrictions to alleviate the pressures of massive cruise ships and the consequent crowding. These measures are not just policy changes; they represent a broader movement toward sustainable tourism practices focusing on long-term preservation over immediate economic benefits.

Santorini, Greece: Tourist Tax and Daily Caps

Santorini has taken a dual approach to manage cruise tourism, introducing a new tax of $22 (20 euros) for cruise ship passengers during peak summer months, starting in September 2024. Additionally, beginning in 2025, the island will limit the daily number of cruise ship visitors to 8,000, a considerable reduction from the 1.3 million visitors it welcomed in 2023.

Venice, Italy: Historic Center Ban and Size Restrictions

In Venice, proactive measures have already been taken to restrict large cruise ships from debarking in the historic center since 2021. The city plans to allow smaller ships—up to 60,000 tons—into specific canals by 2027, aiming to strike a balance that maintains some level of cruise tourism while protecting the city’s fragile ecosystem from further ecological damage.

Amsterdam, Netherlands: Cutting Calls in Half

Amsterdam has decided to dramatically reduce entries to its port, aiming for only 100 cruise ships per year by 2026—a 50% decrease from previous numbers. The city also mandates that all vessels use shore-side power by 2027, reflecting its focus on sustainability amidst a stark rise in cruise arrivals that have congested the city’s narrow streets.

Barcelona, Spain: Terminal Closures and Passenger Limits

Barcelona will permanently shut down two major cruise terminals by the end of 2025, redirecting ships to a pier farther away from residential areas. These changes are set to alter cruise routes across the Mediterranean, as Barcelona prioritizes the quality of life for its residents over tourism revenue.

Juneau, Alaska: Daily Passenger Caps Begin 2026

The capital of Alaska is set to cap daily cruise ship visitors at 16,000 on regular days and 12,000 on Saturdays from 2026 onwards, a considerable drop from current levels. The agreement with cruise lines will also limit the number of large ships to five per day, which aims to mitigate the impacts of tourism on the local community.

These global destinations are pioneering a trend toward sustainable tourism by instituting measures that address environmental concerns, infrastructure stress, and the well-being of local populations. As cities implement these restrictions, they spark a critical conversation about the balance between tourism opportunities and the preservation of their unique environments.

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