With Greece’s new cruise passenger levy set to take effect on July 1, government officials this week reaffirmed their commitment to sustainable growth in the sector – touting the measure as part of a broader strategy to manage tourism flows, upgrade port infrastructure, and support local economies.
The message came during a high-level meeting in Athens between Greek Minister of Shipping and Insular Policy Vassilis Kikilias, Minister of Tourism Olga Kefalogianni, and Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Executive Chairman Bud Darr.
“The levy is a central government decision,” said Minister Kikilias, underscoring its role in supporting critical port upgrades, particularly at high-traffic destinations like Santorini and Mykonos. “We aim to provide safe, accessible, and well-managed infrastructure.”
The fee – approved under Law 5162/2024 – will apply to cruise passengers disembarking at Greek ports, with higher rates for the country’s most congested destinations. Revenues will be earmarked for both local and national infrastructure projects tied to tourism and environmental management.
To support implementation, the ministers agreed to create a joint working group – including CLIA and relevant ministries – tasked with refining procedures such as passenger counting, payment systems, and company notifications. The group will also advise on potential caps on visitor numbers and strategies to extend the cruise season.
Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni and Greek Maritime Minister Vassilis Kikilias (right) spaking to a delegation from CLIA headed by the association’s president and CEO, Bud Darr.
“We are looking at development with measure and balance,” said Minister Kefalogianni. She noted that the government seeks to diversify cruise routes beyond legacy hotspots, attract smaller, higher-end vessels, and support local economies through destination planning.
In parallel, Greece has launched the Observatory for Coastal and Marine Tourism in the Eastern Mediterranean – developed with the UN World Tourism Organization – to gather data on environmental, social, and economic impacts of maritime tourism.
“Cruising can help power sustainable tourism – if it’s managed smartly,” added Kikilias.
Follow GTP Headlines on Google News to keep up to date with all the latest on tourism and travel in Greece.
Source link
