How to cruise responsibly in over-touristed destinations across Europe

Economic Times

07-07-2025

Agencies As several European cities tighten rules on cruise tourism due to overtourism concerns, travellers can still explore these popular destinations by choosing more responsible and less disruptive alternatives. Tour operators and tourism boards are encouraging visitors to opt for smaller, low-impact vessels instead of large ocean liners, which are now facing stricter docking limits and higher levies.Instead of large ships that carry thousands of passengers, travellers can choose sailing yachts, clippers, or small-group vessels. These allow access to destinations while reducing environmental impact and easing pressure on local infrastructure. According to Riviera Travel, smaller boats also provide more intimate travel experiences and are often exempt from the most stringent port restrictions.
In Venice, where large ships over 25,000 gross tons are banned from the historic Giudecca Canal, visitors can now arrive by yacht or smaller vessels, as per Euro News. These offer up-close views of the Doge's Palace, St. Mark's Basilica, and other landmarks, without adding to the city's tourism strain. Similarly, Palma de Mallorca has capped cruise arrivals to three ships per day, with only one large vessel allowed. A clipper cruise, sailing on a traditional tall ship, allows travellers to explore the Balearic Islands without contributing to overcrowding at ports. Such cruises make it possible to step off and visit the Gothic cathedral, walk the Old Town, or take in the island's coastline without major disruption.Dubrovnik, which limits daily cruise ship arrivals to two vessels carrying a total of 8,000 passengers, can also be visited by sea through small-boat sailing tours. Travellers can explore Croatia's Adriatic coast and visit historic cities like Dubrovnik with less impact on local communities.
Many destinations have introduced new regulations to manage tourism volumes. Greece's islands of Santorini and Mykonos now charge a €20 cruise passenger tax during peak season. Cannes in France will cut the number of large ships and limit passenger numbers starting next year. Cities like Barcelona and Amsterdam are also scaling back cruise activity, with the Dutch capital aiming for a full phase-out by 2035. Norway will begin allowing local tourist taxes on cruise passengers from next summer.
These restrictions reflect a growing movement across Europe to balance tourism with environmental and cultural preservation. While access to major destinations is changing, responsible cruising through smaller, sustainable means ensures visitors can still experience Europe's coastlines without contributing to its overcrowding challenges.
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