Cruise Industry in Venice, Barcelona, Greece, Balearic Islands Face Backlash as Mass Tourism Engulfs Forcing the Companies in Changing of Routes and Itineraries

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The European head of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the world’s largest cruise trade body, has issued a warning that its members may need to avoid some of the world’s most famous destinations to protect cruise passengers amid growing backlash against overtourism or mass tourism. The warning comes as several European cities express frustrations over rising tourist numbers and their impact on local ecosystems and the cost of living.

Marie-Caroline Laurent, European director of the CLIA, told to the media, “There will be some consideration of adapting the cruise itineraries if for some reason we feel that all passengers will not be well-treated.” Laurent did not specify which cities might be excluded from future itineraries, but recent protests across the continent hint at potential candidates.

Barcelona’s Limits And Facing Mass Tourism

Barcelona, Europe’s most popular port for cruise ships, is at the forefront of the overtourism debate. The city’s mayor has stated that Barcelona cannot accommodate more passengers than the 3.5 million it welcomed in 2023. Despite this, the CLIA defended its presence in the city, noting that cruise passengers accounted for only 4% of Barcelona’s total visitors.

Venice’s Measures to Curb Over Tourism

Venice, which banned cruise ships from its center in 2021, has implemented a “tourist tax” this summer aimed at day-trippers. This measure follows previous efforts to limit the size of groups congregating in the city. The tax is designed to deter tourists or generate additional revenue to manage the influx.

Amsterdam’s Reduction Plan

Amsterdam is another city taking significant steps to control the number of cruise visitors. The city plans to nearly halve the number of cruises permitted to stop in its port by 2026 and aims to ban them altogether by 2035. These measures are part of a broader strategy to manage tourist numbers and reduce the environmental impact.

Greece’s Drone Patrols

In Greece, the impact of overtourism is felt keenly on its popular beaches. Local authorities have started using drones to enforce new regulations on sun loungers, aiming to prevent overcrowding and ensure that beaches remain accessible and enjoyable for all visitors.

Cruise Industry Growth in 2023-2024 Tourism Season

Despite the challenges and grumbling about a rising lack of hospitality in certain destinations, the global cruise industry continues to grow. It is projected to carry 10.7% more passengers by 2028 than in 2023, when 31.7 million tourists boarded cruise liners. This growth highlights the industry’s resilience and popularity, even as it navigates the complexities of overtourism.

Cruise Companies Operating in Barcelona, Spain, Greece, and the Balearic Islands

The Mediterranean region, encompassing iconic destinations like Barcelona, Greece, and the Balearic Islands, is serviced by several major cruise companies offering diverse and enriching travel experiences.

Barcelona, Spain

Royal Caribbean International is a standout, known for its innovative ships and wide range of amenities. The company’s Mediterranean itineraries often feature Barcelona as a key port, attracting passengers with its blend of history, culture, and vibrant city life. MSC Cruises also prominently includes Barcelona in its Mediterranean voyages, offering a variety of cruise lengths and experiences tailored to both families and luxury seekers. Norwegian Cruise Line is another major player, renowned for its flexible “Freestyle Cruising” concept, which appeals to travelers seeking a more relaxed, customizable cruise experience. Carnival Cruise Line brings its signature fun-focused approach to the Mediterranean, with Barcelona serving as a frequent stop. Celebrity Cruises rounds out the options, providing a premium cruise experience with sophisticated amenities and excursions.

Greece

Greece’s stunning islands and historic ports are well-served by Celestyal Cruises, which specializes in immersive Greek island experiences. This line offers authentic cultural excursions and intimate ship settings. Royal Caribbean International and MSC Cruises also feature Greece in their itineraries, with stops at major islands like Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete, offering a mix of adventure and relaxation. Princess Cruises is known for its comprehensive Greek itineraries, often covering several islands in one trip. For luxury travelers, Seabourn Cruise Line offers an upscale experience with smaller ships and personalized service, focusing on high-end, culturally rich Greek island visits.

Balearic Islands

The Balearic Islands, including Majorca and Ibiza, are popular stops on Mediterranean cruises. MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean International feature these islands in their itineraries, appealing to both families and luxury travelers. Norwegian Cruise Line also includes the Balearic Islands, offering flexible dining and entertainment options. Costa Cruises and AIDA Cruises (a German-based line) provide diverse Mediterranean cruises with stops in the Balearic Islands, catering to both international and European guests with a variety of cultural and leisure activities.

The Future of Cruise Itineraries

As the debate over overtourism intensifies, the cruise industry faces a delicate balancing act. On one hand, it must cater to the growing demand for cruise holidays; on the other, it must navigate the concerns of host cities and the environmental impact of its operations. Adapting itineraries to avoid certain destinations could become a necessary step to maintain positive relations with local communities and ensure a sustainable future for both the industry and the destinations it visits.

Marie-Caroline Laurent’s comments underscore the industry’s willingness to consider changes to protect passenger experiences and address the concerns of host cities. Whether this will lead to significant changes in cruise itineraries remains to be seen, but it is clear that the industry is closely monitoring the situation and is prepared to take action if necessary.