It comes after Italian authorities announced last week that vessels weighing 100,000 tonnes (equal to around 2,800-passenger size and above) would be banned from entering central Venice and transiting along its Grand Canal, following local anger at overtourism and environmental concerns.
John Dearing, director at maritime consultancy GP Wild, told TTG the cruise industry “can’t rule out the possibility that more [destinations] will do the same”.
The restrictions will see larger ships having to sail via the nearby industrial port of Marghera, with passengers transported into the city centre via smaller boats or overland by coaches.
“There is always a delicate balance between the cruise industry and the needs of sustainable tourism that must be struck,” added Dearing. “It’s not a surprise to me that this move was taken in Venice… it’s probably the right thing to do.”
However he dismissed suggestions that the move could affect the popularity of Venice with both cruise lines and passengers.
“Yes, it won’t be as convenient for the customer but they will still have access to the city centre,” he said. “Venice is a must-see destination – especially for US guests – so I think the impact will be relatively small.”
Andy Harmer, senior vice-president membership and director, Clia UK and Ireland agreed, adding that member lines had refrained from bringing ships of more than 96,000 tonnes into Venice since November 2014 and had experienced “no impact on passenger numbers” as a result. “We’re confident passengers will... appreciate the efforts made to protect the city,” he added.
