🚢 New fee for cruise passengers in Greece from July: What you'll pay & where

With Greece welcoming a tidal wave of cruise traffic in recent years – over 5,500 cruise ship calls in 2024 alone, and nearly 8 million passengers – it's no wonder the country is looking for ways to ease the pressure on its beloved islands like Mykonos and Santorini.

So, what’s the news? From 1st July 2025, Greece will introduce a tiered "arrival fee" for cruise passengers who disembark and explore on land.Wer muss zahlen?

🛳️ Who has to pay?

If you’re arriving by cruise ship and planning to step ashore at any Greek port from 1 July 2025, you'll need to cough up a new landing fee — it applies per person, per stop.

🧭 Why is Greece doing this?

While millions visit Greek islands each year by cruise, many local communities see little benefit. Most passengers eat on board, and excursions are usually booked through the cruise line, leaving local businesses out in the cold.

This new fee aims to:

• Support local towns and infrastructure,

• Help cover costs from increased waste, traffic, and security needs,

• Encourage a fairer contribution from cruise visitors.

Think of it less as a tourist tax and more as a small way to give back to the paradise you're enjoying.

💰 How much will you pay? It depends on when & where you dock:

Let’s break it down for you – fees are seasonal and location-based.

🏖️ High Season (1 June – 30 September):

Mykonos & Santorini:

€20 ≈ £17

Other islands/coastal ports:

€5 ≈ £4.25

🍂 Shoulder Seasons (Spring & Autumn):

Mykonos & Santorini:

€12 ≈ £10.20

Other islands/coastal ports:

€3 ≈ £2.55

❄️ Winter:

Mykonos & Santorini:

€4 ≈ £3.40

Other islands/coastal ports:

€1 ≈ £0.85

(GBP estimates based on June 2025 exchange rates. Always check before you go!)

⚓ Final Thoughts

This isn't about scaring away cruise-goers – it’s about sustainability and fairness. Santorini and Mykonos can see up to six ships in a day during peak summer – that’s a lot of flip-flops on tiny cobbled streets!

So if you're docking in Greece from July 2025, budget in a few quid for the landing fee – and feel good knowing you're helping keep these dreamy destinations as gorgeous as they are today. 🌊💙