French authorities have revealed new cruise regulations to manage overtourism along the French Riviera. The country introduced passenger caps and limits on large-ship calls at some of the region’s most popular ports, including Nice and Cannes.Under the new framework, ports will be capped at an average of 2,000 cruise passengers per day. On busy days, that number may increase to up to 3,000 passengers, as long as the annual daily average remains within the established limit. The regulations also limit the number of large cruise ships that may call at Riviera ports.

The decree, signed on December 9 by Laurent Hottiaux, Prefect of the Alpes-Maritimes, and Vice-Admiral Christophe Lucas, Mediterranean Maritime Prefect, confirms a comprehensive plan first announced on October 10. The plan sets out guidelines for managing cruise calls at key ports in the region, including Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Cannes, and Menton.

During the summer peak season, from July 1 through August 31, ports will allow a maximum of 15 large-ship calls per month. The measures apply only to ships that anchor offshore. Vessels that berth directly at piers are exempt from these limitations. 

Cruise lines that commit to the Sustainable Mediterranean Cruise Charter will be prioritised when ports allocate berth access and approvals. The charter, a voluntary agreement adopted by most major cruise operators in the region, sets out guidelines to reduce the environmental impact of cruise operations across the Mediterranean.

This comes as cruise arrivals along the Mediterranean coastline continue to rise during peak travel seasons, placing increased pressure on local infrastructure and popular destinations. Officials say the aim is to balance protecting coastal communities and preserving the economic benefits that cruise tourism brings to the region.

Union Maritime 06, representing maritime professionals from the Alpes-Maritimes and Monaco, praised the planned regulation. President Christophe Plumion highlighted that “for the first time, a regulatory text includes the Sustainable Mediterranean Cruise Charter and 20 commitments to the environment”.

However, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) warned that some elements of the regulations could have negative impacts on port economies and regional tourism, citing the need for ongoing review and dialogue with industry stakeholders.