Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has responded with concerns over plans in Greece to hike cruise passenger fees for island hotspots Santorini and Mykonos.
The trade group has raised concerns about the thinking behind the cruise fee of €20 for high season port calls.
CLIA said in a statement: “The cruise sector is a success story for Greece contributing 1.4 billion euros to the economy in 2022. Any increase in the existing port fee should be fit for purpose, and proportionate to the specific port investment needs.”
On announcing the fee, the Greek PM said part of it would be used for infrastructure improvements.
“CLIA is hoping any new measures will be developed in close consultation with the impacted municipalities, ports and tourism stakeholders locally.”
CLIA notes any fee hike should always be ‘proportionate to the specific port’s investment needs, and uniformly applied to all visitors.’
CLIA also said these fee revenues should be directly reinvested into port operations.
“CLIA stresses the importance of comparing Greek port fees with those of other Mediterranean ports to ensure competitiveness.”
“Port charges are subject to European and national regulations, and any alterations must comply with these legal frameworks.”
