Growing protests against mass tourism in Spain are raising concerns within the cruise industry, with international lines considering adjustments to itineraries in response. Popular destinations such as Barcelona and the Canary Islands have become focal points for local demonstrations, citing issues such as air quality degradation, overcrowding, and rising accommodation costs.
Marie-Caroline Laurent (European Director of CLIA/Cruise Lines International Association) acknowledged that itinerary changes may be considered if passenger experiences are compromised. Laurent noted that there will be some consideration of adapting the itineraries if, for some reason, they feel that all passengers will not be well-treated.
Potential alternatives to affected ports would involve more "tourist-friendly" destinations nearby, allowing the industry to maintain Mediterranean appeal while addressing local concerns. Cruise tourism has seen a significant rebound, with 31.7 million passengers globally in 2023, surpassing pre-COVID levels.
However, the environmental impact of cruise ships has fueled criticism, with studies alleging that ~90% of waste generated aboard is discharged into the sea. Proposals from residents include raising tourist taxes for short-stay visitors, particularly as most cruise passengers spend fewer than 12 hours in port.
The CLIA has responded by emphasizing ongoing sustainability efforts within the industry, including investment in cleaner ships, and has described the protests as an expression of "tourismphobia." The balance between fostering tourism and addressing local concerns continues to shape the discourse around the future of cruising in Spain.