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New Tourist Fees and Regulations for Greek Islands Amid Overtourism
When planning a cruise to Greece, many envision peaceful strolls through charming alleyways lined with whitewashed buildings, savoring fresh seafood at seaside tavernas, or relaxing on quiet beaches. However, the reality in popular destinations such as Santorini and Mykonos has diverged sharply from this idyllic picture.
In recent years, the surge of tourists, especially during peak summer months, has overwhelmed these islands, significantly diminishing their charm. Many visitors are cruise ship passengers arriving for brief day trips, exacerbating the situation.
Recognizing this pressing issue, Greek officials are implementing new measures aimed at controlling the impact of overtourism on these storied locales. Beginning in 2025, both Santorini and Mykonos will impose a €20 (about $22) arrival fee on cruise passengers during the summer season, according to a report by Reuters. Officials indicated that a portion of these fees would be allocated to enhancing the islands’ infrastructure, which has been strained by the influx of tourists.
Statistics from the Greek Tourism Confederation reveal that in 2023, Santorini welcomed approximately 1.3 million passengers via 800 cruise ships. Similarly, Mykonos saw a notable increase, with 749 cruise arrivals and nearly 1.2 million passengers, marking a 23 percent rise from the previous year.
Overcrowding is a concern not only for Santorini and Mykonos, known for their stunning scenery and chic beach clubs, but is a widespread issue affecting popular tourist destinations throughout Europe. Cities such as Barcelona have recently experienced significant pushback from residents struggling with the consequences of tourism. This reaction has prompted several locations, including Lisbon and various cities in Italy, to adopt new tourist fees and regulations.
In August, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) engaged in discussions with Greek officials to address the challenges posed by increased tourist numbers. Maria Deligianni, CLIA’s Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, noted the growing attention on tourist volumes in Greece, particularly regarding its famed islands. Following these conversations, the organization committed to adhering to new constraints designed to limit cruise ship arrivals.
To combat the impact of cruise tourism, Santorini plans to cap daily passenger numbers at 8,000 starting in 2025, while Mykonos is set to implement a new berth allocation system to stagger ship arrivals. According to 2023 CLIA data, 57% of Greece’s cruise tourism is concentrated around Santorini, Mykonos, and Piraeus—the main port city near Athens. CLIA is actively collaborating with Greek authorities to encourage cruise itineraries that include lesser-known islands.
Travelers seeking to avoid large crowds can consider booking cruises that feature less frequented Greek islands. Islands in the Ionian Sea, such as Zakynthos and Antipaxos, are highlighted as tranquil alternatives to Santorini and Mykonos by travel expert Kristin Chambers, founder of TravelLustre. Chambers emphasizes that these islands provide a more serene experience, complete with charming towns and clear waters free from the congestion typically found at more popular destinations.
For those who wish to remain within the Cyclades, Milos, Sifnos, and Naxos are suggested as excellent options. Chambers notes that Milos, in particular, lacks a large cruise terminal, making it more accessible for smaller vessels and private charters, which can help manage visitor numbers. Boutique cruise lines, including Ponant and Windstar, often include these islands in their itineraries.
While visiting Santorini and Mykonos amid large crowds may seem unappealing, it is possible to enjoy these locations without the overload of tourists. Travelling off-peak and choosing less frequented activities and sites can offer a more tranquil experience. Chambers recommends exploring quieter parts of Santorini during peak cruise hours, suggesting that visitors avoid hotspots such as Oia and Fira until later in the day. This strategy not only alleviates the burden of crowds but also supports local businesses that typically go unnoticed amid the tourist rush.
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