French Senate approves new €15 per passenger tax for cruise ships

France is set to introduce a new tax targeting cruise ship visitors, requiring each passenger to pay 15 for every port they visit in the country. The revenue from this levy is projected to reach around 75 million annually and will be allocated to the protection and preservation of Frances fragile coastal regions.

The popularity of cruise tourism in France has surged in recent years. In 2023, more than 3.8 million cruise passengers visited mainland French ports, according to the national tourism agency, Atout France.

Timing and Purpose of the Cruise Tax

The upcoming tax is based on a polluter pays principle, shifting the financial burden of pollution and environmental safeguards onto the cruise operators rather than local communities. It is also included in Frances broader 2026 budget plans.

This decision follows local restrictions in popular ports: Cannes has banned cruise ships carrying over 1,000 passengers starting January next year, while Nice has capped annual cruise arrivals at 65 vessels.

The French Senate has already backed the tax, with Senator Jean-Marc Delia highlighting that European cruise ships emit approximately seven million tonnes of CO2 annually as a driving reason for the measure.

Environmental Concerns and Opposition

A report from Transport and Environment (T&E) noted that Carnival cruise ships released more CO2 in 2023 than the city of Glasgow. Despite Senate approval, Frances centrist government has expressed reservations about the tax, citing challenges in distinguishing between cruise ships and ferries. The motion now awaits review by the Assemble nationale, which is expected to issue its decision later in December.

European Trend in Cruise Regulation

France joins other European nations tightening regulations on cruise tourism. Greece has imposed a climate crisis resilience fee, charging 20 for popular destinations like Mykonos and Santorini, with smaller levies for other locations. Norway allows municipalities to add a 3% tourism tax on cruise arrivals to support local communities and manage overtourism. Cities including Amsterdam and Lisbon have also raised cruise and visitor taxes to offset environmental impacts and fund urban improvements.

Author: Aiden Foster