Barcelona to Reduce Cruise Ship Capacity Amid Overtourism Concerns

Barcelona has revealed plans to reduce the number of cruise passengers arriving at its port as part of a broader effort to combat overtourism. The city intends to decrease the number of cruise terminals from seven to five by 2030, which will lower the annual traveller capacity from 37,000 to 31,000. This decision follows a significant increase in cruise passenger numbers, which grew by 20 per cent between 2018 and 2024. In 2024 alone, the port welcomed 3.65 million cruise visitors, making it one of the busiest ports globally.

The plan involves demolishing three existing terminals and constructing a new one, with the project costing around €185 million (£165 million). Barcelona’s Mayor, Jaume Collboni, made a statement stating, “For the first time in history, limits are being set on the growth of cruise ships in the city,” highlighting the shift towards more sustainable tourism management.

While tourism has been vital to Spain’s economy, attracting a record 94 million international visitors last year, it has also led to frustrations over rising housing costs and changes in local neighbourhoods. To address this, Barcelona has also promised to eliminate approximately 10,000 tourist rental apartments by 2028. Other European cities, such as Venice and Athens, are adopting similar measures to manage the impact of mass tourism.