Starting July 1, 2024, a new cruise tax will be implemented in Greece, significantly impacting popular destinations like Mykonos and Santorini. As reported by AFAR, the tax is set at 20 euros per passenger during the summer season, which runs from July 1 to September 30.
Seasonal Tax Rates for Cruise Passengers
The new tax structure will vary significantly according to the season. Following the peak summer rate of 20 euros, the tax will decrease to 12 euros in October. Then, from November to March, the tax will further drop to just 4 euros. As the spring arrives, the fee will rise again to 12 euros from April to June, before hitting the maximum summer rate once more in July.
Other Greek Destinations
While Mykonos and Santorini face the higher rates, other cruise destinations throughout Greece will set their taxes differently. During the peak summer season, these locations will charge 5 euros per passenger. In the fall and spring months, the tax will be reduced to 3 euros, and in the winter, it will be only 1 euro.
The Reason Behind the Change
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis initially announced the new cruise tax in September 2023, attributing it to the growing issue of overtourism in certain hotspots. “Cruise shipping has burdened Santorini and Mykonos, and this is why we are proceeding with interventions,” he stated, as reported by Reuters.
The Impact of Overtourism
Overtourism has become an increasingly pressing concern for many popular tourist destinations, putting immense pressure on local resources and communities. The introduction of the cruise tax is part of a broader strategy to manage tourist numbers, ensuring sustainability while still offering the beauty and culture Greece is renowned for.
As Greece prepares for a busy summer season, it remains to be seen how this new cruise tax will affect both tourists and local economies. With a structured approach to managing tourist influx, Greece is taking steps to balance the needs of its visitors with those of its treasured landscapes and communities.
