The Greek island of Santorini recently implemented new rules for cruise operations, changing the proportion of passengers who can disembark at specific piers.

While a pier for large vessels is not available at the destination, cruise ships can tender passengers to different ports.

In its recent ruling, the local government determined that only 30 percent of these guests can disembark at the port of Athinios.

With a larger pier and road infrastructure, the facility is mostly used by ferry and cargo operators, as well as logistical services.

The other 70 percent of passengers visiting Santorini will be forced to disembark at the Ormos Fira pier, which offers less suitable infrastructure for cruise operations. The old port is only connected to the city of Fira via a 600-step staircase or a cable car system.

The limits will be calculated daily and replace the former rule, which determined that 40 percent of passengers could disembark at Athinios.

According to Οικονομικός Ταχυδρόμος, the ruling was issued by the Municipal Port Fund of Thira and is based on civil protection measures related to the seismic activity crisis of 2025.

The local news source said that the decision was aimed at limiting traffic to maintain clear spaces for emergencies but has sparked controversy.

Taking advantage of the port’s road access to different parts of the island, cruise lines use Athinios as the starting point for shore excursions, the website added.

The model was said to help spread visitors across Santorini, easing congestion in the town of Fira.

Οικονομικός Ταχυδρόμος added that the Naxos First Instance Prosecutor’s Office questioned the decision, requesting an investigation into the matter.

The Municipality of Thira and the Municipal Port Fund were said to reject the criticism, arguing that the decision is based on current legislation and follows Greece’s Joint Ministerial Decree for the safety of tourists.

The local authorities added that the Ormos Fira pier has traditionally been the arrival point for cruise passengers and offers adequate infrastructure following a series of investments.

Cruise lines that do not follow the new rule will be subject to administrative fines, suspension of activities and criminal sanctions.

In related news, the Greek government implemented a special tax for cruise passengers arriving in the country’s ports starting in 2025.

Santorini and Mykonos have the highest charges, with passengers paying up to 20 euros per visit during the peak summer season.