A court in Nice has annulled Mayor Christian Estrosi’s decree restricting cruise passenger numbers into the ports of Nice and Villefranche-sur-Mer, deeming the measure unlawful and beyond his jurisdiction.
The ordinance, issued on July 9, had aimed to curb environmental impact and protect marine life but was overturned on July 13 by the Administrative Court, which affirmed that only the prefect of Alpes-Maritimes has authority over maritime traffic regulation.
The prefect himself brought the challenge before the court, arguing that ship entry protocols and maritime governance rest with state-appointed officials, rather than municipal powers—rendering the order legally void . Estrosi’s dual status as mayor and metropolitan president did not extend to overriding national maritime statutes.
His decree had sought to limit cruise calls in Nice to vessels carrying no more than 450 passengers, and in Villefranche-sur-Mer to a single daily ship with a maximum of 2,500 passengers.
The measure briefly applied when Voyager of the Seas brought over 3,100 passengers into Villefranche on July 11. Estrosi attempted but failed to board the ship anchored offshore, delivering a letter to the captain via a police boat; maritime protocol prevented his boarding, resulting in a public conflict captured on video.
Following the court’s ruling, Estrosi warned of possible legal action against the State for inadequate environmental protection if national regulation fails to limit large cruise ships.
His stance drew criticism from environmental advocates and the Cruise Lines International Association, which accused him of politicizing marine policy and turning serious environmental debate into theatrical spectacle.
The ruling leaves Estrosi’s decree suspended and opens the door to national-level dialogue. Officials are expected to hold consultations in September to craft a legally sound framework addressing cruise ship management, coastal preservation, and industry considerations on the Côte d’Azur.