How Anti-Tourism Protests May Affect Cruises

A new wave of concern is rising among travellers. This growing trend of local pushback against mass tourism has sparked debates about the future of travel, especially in beloved cruise destinations.

Anti-tourism protests have been making headlines, leaving many cruisers to wonder: should we be worried?

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The Rise of Anti-Tourism Sentiment

Cruise passengers dreaming of sun-soaked beaches and charming coastal towns might be surprised to be greeted by protest signs instead of welcome banners. From the canals of Venice to the streets of Barcelona, residents are voicing their concerns about the impact of tourism on their daily lives.

Global Hotspots for Protests

Barcelona has become a focal point for anti-tourism demonstrations. In a recent protest, thousands of residents took to the streets, with some even using water pistols to spray tourists.

Venice, another cruise favourite, has introduced a controversial entry fee for day-trippers in an attempt to manage visitor numbers.

This image shows a large white cruise ship passing through a waterway in Venice, Italy, juxtaposed with traditional Venetian gondolas docked in the foreground. The gondolas, covered with blue tarps, contrast sharply with the imposing size of the modern ship, highlighting the tension between traditional culture and modern tourism in Venice.

Amsterdam has seen climate protesters delay cruise ships, highlighting the environmental concerns surrounding the industry.

These incidents aren’t isolated. The Canary Islands, Mallorca, and even far-flung destinations like Juneau in Alaska have all experienced some form of protest or proposed restrictions on cruise tourism.

The message from locals is clear: they feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of visitors flooding their cities.

A striking view of Juneau, the capital city of Alaska, set against a dramatic natural backdrop. Nestled at the water's edge, the city's buildings are modest in height, reflecting the small-scale urban development typical of this remote area. Behind the city, a lush, green mountain rises steeply, shrouded partially by low-hanging clouds that add a mystic quality to the landscape. The calm, greenish waters in the foreground reflect the tranquility of this picturesque setting, emphasizing Juneau's unique blend of urban life and wild, natural beauty. This view highlights the city's isolated and scenic location, surrounded by the vast wilderness that is characteristic of Alaska.

Reasons Behind the Backlash

So, why are locals so upset? It’s not just about crowded streets and long queues. The reasons run deeper, touching on issues of housing, environment and quality of life.

In many popular cruise destinations, locals are being priced out of their own neighbourhoods. Short-term rentals and second homes for tourists have caused housing prices to skyrocket. This makes it difficult for residents to afford to live in their own cities.

Environmental concerns are also at the forefront. A study by Transport & Environment found that Europe’s luxury cruise ships emit as much toxic sulphur as one billion cars.

This statistic has fuelled protests by environmental groups, who argue that cruise tourism is unsustainable in its current form.

The Impact of Anti-Tourism on the Cruise Industry

With protests making headlines, cruise lines are starting to feel the heat. The industry now finds itself navigating the choppy waters of public opinion.

Current and Potential Disruptions

Some cruise itineraries have already been affected by these protests. In Amsterdam, a cruise ship was delayed for hours when protesters chained themselves to a lock gate.

Barcelona has implemented a new tax specifically targeting short-term visitors, primarily cruise passengers.

Venice’s ban on large cruise ships in the city centre has forced companies to rethink their Italian itineraries.

Looking ahead, more disruptions seem likely. Marie-Caroline Laurent, European director of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), has warned that cruise lines might need to “adapt itineraries” if they feel passengers won’t be well-treated in certain destinations. This could mean fewer stops at some of Europe’s most iconic ports.

Industry Response

Many cruise lines are investing in more environmentally friendly technologies, such as cleaner fuels and advanced waste management systems. They’re also working with local communities to address concerns about overcrowding and economic impact.

CLIA and other industry bodies are actively engaging with local governments to find solutions. They’re highlighting the economic benefits of cruise tourism, while acknowledging the need for sustainable practices.

Some cruise lines are even exploring the idea of smaller ships that can access alternative ports, spreading out the impact of tourism.

Government and Local Authority Actions to Manage Tourism

As tensions rise, local governments are stepping in with new rules and regulations aimed at managing tourism flows, especially from cruise ships.

New Regulations and Restrictions

Venice’s entry fee for day-trippers is just one example of how cities are trying to control visitor numbers. Barcelona has capped the number of cruise passengers allowed in the city.

Amsterdam plans to reduce cruise stops by nearly half by 2026, and ban them entirely by 2035.

Greece, another popular cruise destination, has also announced new measures to combat overtourism. These include limits on daily cruise ship arrivals, increased docking fees for popular islands like Mykonos and Santorini, and a new passenger fee of up to €20 for visited islands.

The enchanting evening ambiance of Santorini, Greece, showcasing the iconic whitewashed houses with blue accents perched along the rugged cliffside. As the sun sets, it casts a warm golden hue over the landscape, highlighting the smooth, rounded rooftops and traditional windmills that add to the distinctive aesthetic of the island. The serene Aegean Sea stretches into the horizon, enhancing the tranquil and picturesque setting.

Balancing Tourism and Local Interests

Finding the right balance between tourism revenue and residents’ quality of life is a tricky task for local authorities. Many destinations are exploring sustainable tourism initiatives.

For example, some Greek islands are considering caps on visitor numbers to protect their infrastructure and environment.

Governments are also looking at ways to spread tourism benefits more evenly. This might include promoting less-visited areas, or encouraging longer stays rather than day trips. The goal is to maintain the economic benefits of tourism while reducing its negative impacts on local communities.

Should Cruisers Be Worried About Anti-Tourism Protests?

With all this talk of protests and restrictions, it’s natural for cruise enthusiasts to feel concerned. But how worried should you really be?

Safety Concerns

The good news is that personal safety is rarely an issue in these protests. Most demonstrations are peaceful, and aimed at raising awareness rather than harming tourists. The water pistol incident in Barcelona, while attention grabbing, was more symbolic than threatening.

However, some destinations have seen an increase in petty criminals targeting tourists. Barcelona, for instance, has reported a rise in theft and pickpocketing. Although not directly related to anti-tourism sentiment, it’s something travellers should be aware of.

This image captures a bustling street scene in Barcelona, Spain, with iconic yellow-and-black taxis and pedestrians walking along a sunlit avenue. The street is lined with ornate historic buildings, and a prominent architectural landmark with a rounded tower is visible in the distance under a partly cloudy blue sky. The image conveys the vibrant urban atmosphere and charm of the city.

Potential for Disrupted Holidays

The bigger concern for cruisers is the potential for disrupted itineraries. As more cities implement restrictions or outright bans on cruise ships, your dream Mediterranean holiday might look different than expected. You may find some iconic ports replaced with lesser-known destinations.

There’s also the possibility of limited access to attractions or longer queues, as cities try to manage tourist numbers. This could mean less time to explore or the need for more advance planning.

Tips for Acting Responsibly When Cruising to Other Cities

While the situation might seem daunting, there’s plenty you can do to be a responsible cruiser and minimise your impact on local communities.

Respect local customs and regulations. If a city has implemented a tourist tax or entry fee, understand that it’s part of their efforts to manage tourism sustainably.
Be mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas.
Try to learn a few words of the local language, which goes a long way in showing respect.
Support local businesses rather than just sticking to tourist traps. This helps spread the economic benefits of your visit.
Consider spending a night or two in the city, rather than just dropping in for a few hours. This allows for a deeper engagement with the destination and its people.
Look for cruise lines that prioritise sustainability. Many companies are investing in cleaner technologies and more responsible practices.
Smaller ships often have less environmental impact, and can access ports that are off-limits to larger vessels.
Consider cruises that visit lesser-known destinations. This not only provides unique experiences, but also helps to more evenly distribute the impact of tourism.
Off-season cruises can also help reduce overcrowding in popular destinations.

The Future of Cruise Tourism

The cruise industry is at a crossroads, facing pressure to evolve and address the concerns raised by anti-tourism movements.

Industry Adaptations

Cruise lines are investing heavily in new technologies to reduce their environmental footprint. This includes more efficient engines, advanced waste management systems, and even experiments with alternative fuels. Some companies are looking at ways to better integrate with local economies, ensuring that more tourism income stays in the communities they visit.

There’s also a trend towards more immersive, culturally sensitive experiences. Rather than simply dropping passengers off for a few hours of sightseeing, cruise lines are partnering with local organisations to offer more meaningful interactions.

Emerging Destinations

As traditional cruise hotspots become more restrictive, the industry is exploring new horizons. This could mean more cruises to less-visited parts of the Mediterranean, increased focus on Northern European destinations, or even the development of new ports in areas eager for tourism development.

Some cruise lines are also looking at slower-paced itineraries that spend more time in each port. This allows for a deeper exploration of destinations, and can help reduce the feeling of tourist ‘invasions’ that many cities complain about.

The bustling atmosphere at Port Zante in St. Kitts, with two large cruise ships moored at the terminal. The perspective shows passengers walking along the dock, enjoying the sunny Caribbean weather as they possibly prepare to explore the island or return to the ships after a day out. The ships are impressive in scale, dominating the background, while the foreground features people of various ages in casual vacation attire, emphasizing the tourist-friendly environment. The inclusion of vibrant greenery in a large circular planter adds a touch of the island’s lush natural beauty, contrasting nicely with the industrial elements of the port. This scene effectively portrays Port Zante as a key entry point for visitors to St. Kitts, serving as a gateway to the island's rich culture and scenic landscapes.

The future of cruise tourism will likely involve a more balanced approach, with greater consideration for local communities and environments. Although this might mean some changes to the traditional cruise experience, it also opens up exciting new possibilities for travellers.

In conclusion, while anti-tourism protests are a concern, they shouldn’t necessarily deter you from cruising. By staying informed, choosing responsible options and being mindful of your impact, you can still enjoy the many pleasures of a cruise holiday. The key is to have respect for local communities and an openness to new experiences.

As the industry evolves, cruising has the potential to become a more sustainable and enriching form of travel, benefiting both passengers and destinations alike.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.