In a bid to manage the growing impact of overtourism, Greece is set to introduce a 20-euro fee for cruise passengers visiting two of its most iconic islands—Mykonos and Santorini. Announced by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis at the Thessaloniki International Fair, this measure aims to alleviate the strain placed on local infrastructure by the influx of visitors, particularly during peak travel periods. With the tourism industry playing a vital role in the Greek economy, balancing the benefits of visitor numbers with the sustainability of these popular destinations has become increasingly urgent.
Santorini: A Picture-Perfect Island Nearing Saturation
Santorini, famous for its stunning volcanic caldera, whitewashed buildings, and striking blue-domed churches, has long been a favorite stop for cruise ships. Its world-renowned sunsets draw millions of tourists each year. However, the island, home to just 15,500 residents, is feeling the pressure. In 2023, some 800 cruise ships brought approximately 1.3 million passengers to the island, according to the Hellenic Ports Association. This influx, combined with the limited infrastructure, has caused parts of Santorini to approach saturation during peak travel times.
Prime Minister Mitsotakis acknowledged this issue at the Thessaloniki International Fair, noting that Greece faces “a problem in certain destinations some weeks or some months of the year.” The cruise industry, in particular, has placed a heavy burden on both Santorini and Mykonos, leading to the decision to impose the 20-euro fee.
Managing Overtourism with New Regulations
The introduction of this fee is just one of several measures the Greek government is considering to manage overtourism. Mitsotakis emphasized the importance of regulating the number of cruise ships that can dock at a destination at the same time. This strategy aims to prevent overcrowding and reduce the strain on local infrastructure. He also underscored the need to ensure that future developments adhere to sustainability principles, reflecting a broader commitment to preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of these islands.
“To put the brakes on islands where we believe that the situation has reached a point where the infrastructure limits are actually being tested,” Mitsotakis said, highlighting the critical need for intervention.
Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni has echoed these concerns, stating in an interview earlier this summer that there is a pressing need to establish quotas. Beginning in 2024, local officials have already set a daily cap of 8,000 cruise passengers for Santorini. “It’s impossible for an island such as Santorini to have five cruise ships arriving at the same time,” Kefalogianni explained.
Economic Importance of Tourism
While the fee and passenger limits are necessary to protect the islands, Greece’s reliance on tourism cannot be overlooked. In 2023, tourism accounted for 13% of the country’s GDP, making it a cornerstone of the national economy. After enduring a decade-long debt crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, Greece’s tourism sector has bounced back, with a record 32.7 million people visiting the country last year. Despite extreme weather events, including wildfires and heatwaves, tourism continued to thrive, helping Greece return to the global travel map.
Mykonos and Santorini, with their crystal-clear waters and charming architecture, are integral to Greece’s tourism appeal. However, as Mitsotakis cautioned, it is “dangerous to present Greece as a country that is hostile to tourism.” This delicate balance between welcoming visitors and preserving the islands’ sustainability is at the heart of the new fee and other regulatory measures.
A Record-Breaking Future for Greek Tourism
Looking ahead, 2024 is projected to be yet another record-breaking year for Greece’s tourism industry. Despite the new regulations and fees, Tourism Minister Kefalogianni expressed optimism that the country’s appeal would continue to draw visitors from around the globe. With a focus on sustainability and responsible tourism, Greece aims to manage the influx of travelers while maintaining its reputation as one of the world’s top vacation destinations.