A leading cruise line has adjusted its itineraries for 2024 and 2025, omitting Venice City amidst the ongoing measures to regulate tourism.
NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line made this decision following Venice's designation of its waterways as a "national monument" and the prohibition of large cruise ships from docking in its historic center.
Previously, Norwegian and other cruise operators utilized smaller tender boats to transport visitors to the city. However, they now deem this compromise unfeasible.
The ban on cruises entering Venice's center in 2021, prompted by concerns of lagoon damage and UNESCO's potential listing of the city as endangered, was welcomed by many in the industry. The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) expressed support for the move, hailing it as a positive development.
Despite the ban, some cruise lines have navigated alternative routes to reach Venice. For instance, MSC docks in Marghera, located across the water from the city, while others opt for Trieste or Ravenna, both situated at least two hours away from Venice.
Venetian authorities are actively addressing the issue of over-tourism. Initiatives include implementing a tourist fee for day visitors starting in the spring, as well as efforts to restrict the size of tour groups during the summer season.
Beginning in 2025, Norwegian will replace Venice stops with either a day at sea or an alternative port, yet to be determined. In the interim, passengers will find Ravenna in Italy, Rijeka and Zadar in Croatia, or Koper in Slovenia on their itineraries instead of Venice.