8 Cruise Ports Set to Quietly Ban Mega-Ships by 2026

Some cruise ports are gearing up to enforce restrictions on the number of passengers they can accommodate, with changes set to roll out by 2026. The rise of mega-ships, while lucrative, has resulted in overcrowding, traffic congestion, and strains on local infrastructure. In response, several destinations are revising their policies to better manage the impacts of large cruise vessels.

Notable ports are implementing bans or restrictions on large cruise ships, requiring cruise lines to adjust their itineraries. Here are some ports taking action:

Labadee, Haiti
Royal Caribbean has halted all visits to its private resort in Labadee through December 2026 due to escalating gang violence and a U.S. State Department Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory. This closure has raised safety concerns among travelers and cruise lines.

Valencia, Spain
To diminish city congestion, Valencia’s mayor announced a ban on mega cruise ships starting in 2026. This move aims to retain cruising business while accommodating fewer passengers that the city’s infrastructure can handle.

Juneau, Alaska
From 2026, an agreement with cruise companies will limit daily cruise passengers to 16,000, with stricter limits on weekends. Additional proposals could further restrict ships with more than 250 passengers on certain days, lowering the number of larger vessels.

Bar Harbor, Maine
A local initiative has led to a cap of 1,000 daily disembarking passengers, which has already led some cruise lines to exclude Bar Harbor from their itineraries.

Santorini, Greece
The Greek Prime Minister is considering restrictions for Santorini and Mykonos starting next year, which may include limits on the number and size of visiting ships. This comes in response to record levels of tourists straining existing operations.

Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam plans to reduce annual cruise ship calls from approximately 200 to just 100 beginning in 2026. Discussions are also in progress regarding relocating cruise terminals outside the city to manage visitor traffic better.

Norway Fjords
As of 2026, Norway may only allow ships powered by alternative fuels, like LNG, to enter its fjords, potentially excluding many traditional cruise ships and altering popular itineraries.

Svalbard
Access to Svalbard has been strictly regulated since 2025, only permitting ships carrying 200 passengers or fewer to visit. This rule effectively keeps larger mega-ships away from this popular expedition cruise destination.

These changes reflect a growing trend among cruise destinations to prioritize the quality of life for residents and the sustainability of their local environments while still contributing to tourism revenue. As the cruise industry adapts, travelers should stay informed about these evolving regulations, as they will significantly influence future cruise plans.

Set sail on a voyage of discovery with CruiseShip.net – your ultimate destination for all things cruising! Explore the latest news, insightful reviews, and thrilling cruising adventures from around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, CruiseShip.net is your go-to source for expert advice, insider tips, and inspiring stories to fuel your wanderlust. Embark on a journey like no other with CruiseShip.net – where every wave brings new excitement and endless possibilities on the high seas.

Editorial Team

At CruiseShip.net, our editorial team is made up of passionate travelers, seasoned cruisers, and maritime industry enthusiasts who live and breathe life at sea. From the latest ship launches and destination spotlights to detailed reviews and onboard tips, we are dedicated to helping readers discover the joy of cruising.

Our mission is to make every article both inspiring and useful, whether you are planning your first voyage or your fiftieth. We research, fact-check, and collaborate with cruise insiders around the world to bring you accurate, up-to-date, and exciting coverage of the global cruise industry.

Join us as we chart new horizons, exploring one port, one ship, and one unforgettable experience at a time.