Santorini Introduces New 20-Euro Fee for Cruise Passengers

According to a recent report from Reuters,Greece has implemented a new 20-euro ($23) fee for tourists arriving on Santorini via cruise ships. This initiative aims to tackle the challenges of overtourism while generating funds to enhance the island’s infrastructure. With around 2 million visitors flocking to this stunning volcanic island each year, which has a local population of just about 15,000 and only one main port, the government is keen on mitigating tourism’s impact—especially given rising concerns over seismic activity.

This move mirrors similar actions taken in various European destinations were locals are frustrated by tourists driving up rental prices and depleting community resources. Starting july 21, authorities will begin collecting this entry fee from cruise passengers. The cost will adjust seasonally: it will be set at 12 euros in October and drop to just 4 euros from November through March before increasing again next spring.

Tourists like Michele Power from Canada express that while Santorini is undeniably stunning and worth visiting, they don’t believe that a fee of 20 euros will deter them from coming. Local business owner Giorgos Kafetzopoulos echoed this sentiment, suggesting that most visitors wouldn’t hesitate to pay for such an iconic destination.

On the flip side,cruise operators have voiced their concerns regarding the fairness of this levy. George Koumpenas, COO of Celestyal cruises—which specializes in Greek island tours—argued that this charge unfairly targets cruise lines and primarily serves as a tax collection measure rather than an effective solution for managing overtourism.

As more regions grapple with similar issues related to tourism management and sustainability—like Venice’s recent ban on large cruise ships—the conversation around balancing visitor influx with local quality of life continues to evolve across popular travel hotspots worldwide.