Nice Mayor Plans to Ban Large Cruise Ships to Combat Overtourism

Monday, January 27, 2025

Mayor of Nice, Christian Estrosi, has announced plans to ban large cruise ships from docking in the city’s ports starting July 1, 2025.

This move aims to address overtourism and its environmental impact, aligning with the city’s sustainability and quality-of-life goals.

The decision was revealed during Nice’s New Year’s ceremony, where Estrosi emphasized the importance of preserving the city’s charm and mitigating the effects of mass tourism.

Proposed Cruise Ship Restrictions

In a statement to the media, Estrosi’s office outlined plans to prohibit ships exceeding 190 meters in length and those with passenger capacities over 900. This measure aims to reduce cruise passenger numbers by up to 70%, targeting the significant environmental and economic impact of mass cruise tourism. The restrictions are designed to limit pollution, reduce overcrowding, and ensure sustainable tourism.

Estrosi cited the example of Venice, which banned large cruise ships from its historic center in 2021, as a model for Nice’s approach. “We won’t let overtourism suffocate Nice,” Estrosi stated, referring to the strain caused by large cruise ships, which often contribute less economically than other tourists while generating considerable waste and pollution.

Environmental Concerns and Local Support

The environmental impact of cruise ships is a significant concern. Cruise vessels release large amounts of carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides, contributing to air pollution and damaging marine ecosystems. A study highlighted that modern cruise ships emit about 250g of CO2 per passenger per kilometer, significantly more than passenger planes. Additionally, the ships discharge wastewater and heavy metals into the ocean, further harming the environment.

Many local residents and environmental groups, such as Stop Croisières and Robin des Bois, have supported Estrosi’s initiative. Juliette Chesnel-Leroux, a Green Party leader in Nice, called the decision a “victory for environmentalists,” although she urged further restrictions, including on large yachts in the Villefranche-sur-Mer bay area.

Challenges to Implementation

Despite the ambitious timeline, experts have questioned whether the proposed ban can be implemented by July 2025. The Port of Nice and the Regional Chamber of Commerce, which oversee docking rights, hold significant authority over such decisions. Furthermore, reservations for large cruise ships through 2025 have already been made, potentially complicating immediate enforcement.

Critics have also pointed out inconsistencies in the mayor’s environmental policies. While banning large cruise ships, Estrosi has supported projects like the expansion of Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, which will increase its passenger capacity from 14 million to 18 million by 2026. This dual approach has drawn criticism from environmental groups for undermining the city’s sustainability goals.

Future Outlook

The announcement coincides with Nice’s selection to host the United Nations Ocean Conference in June 2025, highlighting the city’s focus on marine conservation. However, with ongoing debates over the economic impact on local businesses and the feasibility of enforcement, the true effectiveness of the ban remains to be seen.