Greece is set to impose a 20-euro tax on cruise ship visitors to the popular islands of Santorini and Mykonos during the peak summer season in an effort to prevent overtourism. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis made this announcement on Sunday, September 8, 2024, emphasizing the need to address the growing strain on these destinations. Tourism is a key contributor to Greece’s economy, which has struggled for years following a severe economic crisis. However, islands like Santorini, home to just 20,000 permanent residents, are at risk of being overwhelmed by the influx of tourists. Mitsotakis clarified that while Greece as a whole does not face a widespread overtourism problem, certain locations experience severe pressure during specific times of the year. He singled out cruise tourism as one of the main contributors to the issue in Santorini and Mykonos.

In response to these challenges, the Greek government plans to implement additional measures to regulate the flow of cruise ships to these islands, aiming to limit the number of vessels that can dock simultaneously. Mitsotakis explained that part of the revenue from the cruise tax will be directed toward infrastructure improvements in local communities to help manage the impact of tourism. Additionally, Greece plans to introduce stricter environmental regulations and address water shortages that are common on these islands. The government is also considering an increase in taxes on short-term rentals and a potential ban on new licenses in central Athens to make more housing available for permanent residents.