Greece Intensifies Efforts Against Cruise Industry Rebellion

The Greek government has unveiled a new initiative targeting cruise passengers, introducing a €20 ($22) tax aimed at visitors arriving at some of the country’s most sought-after islands during the high summer season.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis revealed this plan during a recent trade fair held in Thessaloniki. The initiative particularly applies to iconic destinations such as Santorini and Mykonos, which draw significant tourist attention during the peak months of the year.

In addition to the tax on cruise passengers, Mitsotakis announced a one-year suspension on new short-term rental properties in key areas of Athens. This move is expected to address concerns about the impact of rapid growth in tourist accommodations on local communities.

The need for such measures arises as cities across the globe grapple with the challenges of mass tourism, seeking to strike a balance between serving visitors and maintaining a livable environment for residents. Other popular tourist spots, including Venice and Barcelona, have also implemented increases in tourist levies to manage visitor numbers.

New Zealand recently joined this trend by announcing plans to triple its entry fee for foreign visitors, further indicating a growing global concern about over-tourism.

Greece’s approach not only includes the introduction of the cruise tax but also aims to limit the number of cruise ships docking at certain ports concurrently. This adjustment is designed to safeguard local ecosystems and address chronic water shortages impacting various islands.

Data from the Hellenic Ports Association indicates that in 2023, Santorini alone welcomed approximately 1.3 million visitors via around 800 cruise ships. Such figures highlight the immense pressure placed on local resources during tourist peak seasons.

Mitsotakis indicated that a portion of the revenues generated from the new tourist tax would be allocated back to local communities, intended to enhance local infrastructure and better accommodate both residents and visitors.

Tourism represents a significant segment of the Greek economy, as evidenced by figures from the Bank of Greece. These indicate that non-resident travelers contributed an estimated €20.5 billion ($22 billion) in travel expenditures during their stay in the country last year.

As Greece moves forward with these measures, the focus remains on preserving the unique charm and beauty of its islands while ensuring that local populations are supported and their environments protected.

Source: Business Insider