Greece has introduced a new disembarkation fee on cruise passengers arriving at its ports and island destinations, effective Monday, July 21st, 2025.
The fee varies by season and port, with its highest rates applying to heavily visited islands like Mykonos and Santorini during peak summer months. The initiative aims to curb overcrowding and channel revenue toward improving local infrastructure and environmental management.
During the high season (June 1–September 30), passengers disembarking in Mykonos or Santorini will pay EUR 20 apiece, while those visiting other Greek ports will incur an EUR 5 fee. In shoulder season (April 1–May 31 and October 1–31), fees drop to EUR 12 for Mykonos and Santorini, and EUR 3 for other ports. In winter (November 1–March 31), the rate falls to EUR 4 on those high-profile islands and EUR 1 elsewhere.
Cruise operators are required to collect and remit these fees via an electronic platform on a quarterly basis, with penalties for non-compliance—including possible denial of future port calls.
MSC Cruises confirms the fee is applied only when a guest disembarks and will be removed from onboard accounts if not spent ashore.
The measure is expected to generate over EUR 50 million annually based on 2024 figures showing more than 8 million cruise passengers disembarked in Greek ports.
Revenue will support port maintenance, waste and water systems, and general local services, including in municipalities along island coasts.
Officials describe the surcharge as part of a broader strategy to balance tourism’s economic benefits with the strain it places on overstretched infrastructure. Prime Minister Mitsotakis has acknowledged that while overtourism affects only select destinations, action is necessary to preserve local communities and environments.
Travel experts warn that family cruises calling at Mykonos, Santorini, and two additional islands during high season could accrue approximately EUR 260 in extra fees for four people.
Nevertheless, analysts argue the fee levels are unlikely to deter mass tourism to marquee destinations.
Maritime observers note that this aligns with European trends seen in Venice, Dubrovnik, and Amsterdam, where similar visitor surcharges and caps have been implemented to manage overtourism.
Greece has also indicated further measures, such as limiting cruise ship arrivals and regulating berth schedules, especially in Santorini and Mykonos.