
A new cruise passenger fee officially came into effect Monday across all Greek ports, including popular destinations like Mykonos and Santorini. The surcharge, which varies by season and location, could add up significantly for families and cruise passengers disembarking in Greek ports.
The seasonal fee, aimed at boosting local revenues and managing overtourism, ranges from €1 to €20 per passenger, depending on the month and port. The most expensive tier affects cruise passengers visiting Mykonos and Santorini during peak summer months, when passengers will be charged €20 each per stop.
Fee Breakdown by Season and Cruise Port
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Summer (June 1 – September 30):
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€20 per passenger in Mykonos and Santorini
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€5 in all other Greek ports
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Shoulder seasons (April 1 – May 31 and October 1 – 31):
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€12 for Mykonos and Santorini
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€3 for other ports
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Winter (November 1 – March 31):
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€4 for Mykonos and Santorini
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€1 elsewhere
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The financial impact is already raising concerns among families and travel planners. A 7-day summer cruise with port calls in Mykonos, Santorini, and two additional Greek islands will now result in €260 in extra fees for a family of four.
The Greek government expects the measure to generate more than €50 million annually, based on last year’s cruise passenger numbers. In 2024, over 8 million travelers disembarked at Greek ports — many of them in overcrowded destinations where infrastructure has been strained under surging visitor numbers.
Officials say the new fee will support port improvements, enhance local services, and help municipalities manage the environmental and economic pressures of cruise tourism. “We want to ensure that the benefits of tourism are balanced with sustainability,” a Ministry of Shipping spokesperson said.
Travelers are advised to check with their cruise lines to understand how these fees may affect their final bill and adjust their expectations accordingly.