Greece pushes ahead with plans for 'disembarking fee' for certain UK tourists

Emily Chaplin

13 November 2024 at 6:36 am·2-min read

View of Mykonos Island, Greece — -Credit: (Image: Getty Images)

Greece has drafted a new law to start charging certain tourists a 'disembarking fee' of between five and 20 euros. The exact amount will depend on the time of year and the part of Greece travellers are visiting.

Greece's latest tax bill is currently open for consultation. It includes details of a new 'cruise levy', which would apply to UK tourists arriving in the country via cruise ship.

The proposal was first announced by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in September to raise money towards the development of port infrastructure and tourism-related projects. It's part of the country's efforts to alleviate the effects of high-season tourism, particularly on popular areas like Santorini and Mykonos, where overcrowding is causing the greatest concern.

A breakdown of the proposed costs has now been revealed, confirming that the exact charge would vary depending on the time of year and location. During the high season, from June 1 to September 30, cruise arrivals at Santorini and Mykonos will pay 20 euros (around £16) to step foot off the ship.

During that same period, other Greek ports will charge five euros. In the 'shoulder season', between October 1 and October 31, and from April to May 31, cruise ship passengers will pay 12 euros to visit Santorini and Mykonos, or three euros at other Greek destinations.

In the low season, from November 1 to March 31, the rate will be reduced to four euros in Santorini and Mykonos, while other ports will charge one euro.

The money collected will be split equally between local municipalities to fund tourism infrastructure and development projects, the Greek Maritime Affairs Ministry for port improvements and national tourism initiatives headed by the Greek Tourism Ministry.

When the new cruise levy was first announced, the Cruise Lines International Association called for a one-year delay to consult with the industries affected.

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