New cruise rules: Cannes, Mexico and Greece introduce passenger taxes
An increasing number of popular destinations are deciding to introduce additional taxes and restrictions for cruise ships – all to alleviate pressure on local infrastructure and ensure additional revenue. Cannes has thus joined cities that limit the docking of large ships, while Mexico and Greece are introducing specific taxes for each passenger.
Mexico: New tax of $5 to $21 per passenger
From this year, Mexico is introducing a new tourist tax for cruise ships – starting at $5 per person and rising to $21 by 2027. All passengers will have to pay the tax every time a ship docks in a Mexican port, and it will be included in the package price, similar to airplane passenger taxes.
While the Mexican government justifies this move by the need to strengthen the budget and preserve social programmes, cruise companies and local entrepreneurs warn that the tax could reduce the number of tourists. The port of Cozumel alone already charges an average of US$28.85 per passenger for ship docking, so the new levy comes as an additional burden.
Large companies like Royal Caribbean point out that such a policy could reduce guest spending in local restaurants, shops and on excursions, thereby directly threatening the livelihood of small businesses in the ports.
Greece: €20 per passenger for the most popular islands
Greece also started charging 20 euros per cruise passenger on islands like Santorini and Mykonos from June 1st. Less visited islands have a reduced rate of 5 euros. The aim is to reduce pressure on island infrastructure, especially during peak season.
For example, Santorini has a daily limit of 8,000 cruise passengers, but on the very first day the tax was implemented, 8,400 arrived. The figures show that in 2024. In 2024, Santorini had over 1.3 million cruise guests – an increase of 41% compared to the previous year.
Where to next?
Such taxes and restrictions are becoming increasingly common around the world as destinations seek ways to maintain tourism sustainability while protecting local communities. While governments defend new levies as a necessity, the cruise industry and small businesses warn of possible negative consequences for local economies. One thing is clear: talks about the balance between revenue and sustainability are just beginning.
📌 Sources: Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), Greek Ministry of Finance, local media, Cruise Industry News, June–July 2025.
