Nice Bans Large Cruise Ships to Combat Overtourism

The new regulation restricts ships with over 900 passengers, drawing criticism from cruise companies and praise from environmental advocates.

Mayor Christian Estrosi signed an order prohibiting large cruise ships from docking in the Nice metropolitan area to address overtourism and promote sustainable tourism.
The ban affects ships carrying more than 900 passengers, while smaller and more luxurious vessels remain welcome at the port of Nice.
Environmental upgrades, including port electrification, are underway to accommodate smaller ships and reduce their environmental impact.
Cruise industry representatives criticized the decision, arguing it stigmatizes their sector and harms local economies, while environmentalists hailed it as a step toward protecting marine ecosystems and public health.
The ban limits the ability of larger ships to disembark passengers in Villefranche-sur-Mer, a nearby deep-water port, potentially impacting tourism revenue in the region.