Greece Introduces Cruise Passenger Tax for Santorini & Mykonos Visitors from July 1

Greece has officially announced a new cruise passenger tax aimed at managing overtourism and funding much-needed infrastructure upgrades in some of the country’s most popular island destinations. The new charges will take effect from July 1, 2025, starting with two of the most visited islands in the Aegean: Mykonos and Santorini.

What Is the New Cruise Tax?

Starting July 1, all cruise passengers disembarking in Mykonos and Santorini will be charged a €20 fee per person during the peak tourist season (June 1 – September 30).

Here’s a breakdown of the seasonal pricing:

Why Is This Cruise Tax Being Introduced?

The Greek government has introduced the tax to address several pressing issues tied to booming cruise tourism:

• Combat overtourism in fragile island ecosystems

• Upgrade port infrastructure, which has struggled to cope with seasonal surges

• Ensure local communities benefit from tourism income

• Improve sustainability by investing tax revenue into environmentally-conscious tourism and port projects

The initiative reflects growing global concerns over cruise-related congestion in small or historic destinations, with Santorini and Mykonos often overwhelmed by thousands of daily visitors.

What It Means for Travelers

For cruise passengers planning to visit Mykonos or Santorini this summer, this means an additional €20 per person will be added to the cost of your itinerary—either as part of your booking fee or collected directly by the cruise operator or port authority.

If you're sailing to lesser-known Greek ports, such as Heraklion, Rhodes, or Corfu, expect to pay less—with fees ranging between €1 to €5 depending on the season.

Good to Know:

• The tax applies per passenger, regardless of age.

• Charges will be lower outside peak season, encouraging off-peak travel.

• Some luxury cruise lines may include these fees in your fare—check with your operator.

Government Statement

A spokesperson for the Greek Ministry of Tourism said:

"This policy supports both our islands and the wider tourism economy. By channeling funds directly into local port improvements and sustainability projects, we aim to preserve the natural and cultural beauty that makes Greece so attractive to visitors."

Planning a Cruise to Greece?

If you're considering a Mediterranean cruise in 2025, now's the time to weigh your options. Choosing a shoulder or off-season sailing could help you save on port charges while enjoying a more relaxed, crowd-free experience.

Pro Tip:

Combine lesser-known Greek destinations like Naxos, Paros, or Kalamata with popular ones for a richer, more affordable itinerary.

Final Thoughts

As Greece steps up efforts to balance tourism growth with sustainability, this cruise tax may become a model for other countries facing similar challenges. For travelers, it’s a small price to pay for preserving the magic of these iconic islands—and ensuring their beauty lasts for future generations.

Disclaimer: This article is based on official announcements from the Greek Ministry of Tourism as of July 1, 2025. Cruise tax rates and policies may be updated—always check with your cruise operator or local port authority for the latest information.

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