The glamorous French Riviera city of Cannes is cracking down on cruise tourism by banning ships that carry more than 1,000 passengers from docking in its harbor.
City officials announced the new rule as part of a broader plan to protect the environment, reduce pollution, and preserve quality of life for residents. The regulation, described as “drastic but necessary,” will take immediate effect.
“We are not anti-tourism,” said Cannes Mayor David Lisnard, “but we must act responsibly. These mega-ships bring serious environmental costs.”
The move follows growing concerns about air pollution, marine damage, and overcrowding caused by large cruise liners along the Mediterranean coast. Environmental groups have praised the decision, calling it a step toward more sustainable tourism.
Only smaller, low-emission vessels will be allowed into the harbor under the new policy. Officials say the city wants to prioritize “quality over quantity” when it comes to visitors.
Cannes, famous for its annual film festival, now joins a list of European destinations including Venice and Barcelona taking action to manage the surge in cruise traffic.
Cruise companies affected by the ban have not yet responded publicly, but analysts say the policy could prompt route changes across the Western Mediterranean.
