Greek Draft Law Foresees Cruise Passenger Levy for Greece’s Ports

Under a draft regulation in Greece’s latest tax bill, cruise passengers disembarking at Greek ports may soon be subject to a new levy, ranging from five to 20 euros depending on the destination. The bill from the Ministry of Economy and Finance is currently open for consultation.

Known as the “cruise levy” and set forth under Article 42 of Law 4256/2014, the regulation applies to passengers disembarking from commercial cruise ships at Greek ports. Initially announced by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in September, the levy aims to support the development of port infrastructure and tourism-related projects nationwide.

The levy aligns with Greece’s strategy to address high-season tourism pressures in destinations such as Santorini and Mykonos, where overcrowding poses a growing challenge. The additional funds are expected to support sustainable tourism growth, benefiting local economies while enhancing long-term infrastructure.

Fee structure by season

The cruise levy will vary by season and port:

• High Season (June 1 – September 30):
  • Santorini and Mykonos: 20 euros
  • Other Greek ports: 5 euros
• Shoulder Season (October 1 – 31, April 1 – May 31):
  • Santorini and Mykonos: 12 euros
  • Other Greek ports: 3 euros
• Low Season (November 1 – March 31):
  • Santorini and Mykonos: 4 euros
  • Other Greek ports: 1 euro

Revenue Allocation

The collected revenue will be distributed equally across three key areas:

• One third will be allocated to local municipalities to fund tourism infrastructure and development projects.
• One third will go to the Greek Maritime Affairs Ministry for broader port improvements.
• The final third will support national tourism initiatives under the Greek Tourism Ministry.

CLIA Meets with Greek PM

The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) raised concerns when the cruise levy was initially announced, calling for a one-year delay. In a recent meeting with Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis, CLIA representatives discussed collaboration to ensure the sustainable growth of Greece’s cruise sector.

“We appreciated the opportunity to engage in a constructive discussion on how to work together as part of a holistic approach towards responsible tourism, to enhance the experience for visitors and local residents alike,” CLIA said in a statement.

The association expressed interest in continued dialogue with the ministries of Tourism and Maritime Affairs to address tourism management and explore “practical solutions”.

According to industry sources, the Greek government is open to reevaluating the passenger levy if cruise companies contribute directly to infrastructure improvements at key destinations, particularly Santorini and Mykonos. Reports indicate the government has given cruise companies two months to present investment plans for infrastructure enhancements in these areas, with the possibility of pausing the cruise passenger levy if progress is made.