Greece cruise passenger traffic declines in early 2026

Cruise passenger traffic in Greece experienced a decline during the first half of 2026, prompting concerns among industry executives. The Port of Piraeus, a major hub for Greek cruise tourism, saw an 17.8% drop in cruise ship calls, falling to 369 from 449 during the same period in 2025.

Industry experts attribute this downturn to rising passenger fees and increased costs associated with high-demand destinations. In islands such as Mykonos and Santorini, seasonal passenger fees range from 4 to 20 euros per person. Additionally, geopolitical tensions in the Arabian Gulf have caused some travelers to divert from expected Greek itineraries toward Turkey and the Western Mediterranean. Some cruise companies are also reassessing routes due to the higher costs of disembarking passengers at popular Greek destinations.