The idyllic island of Mykonos in Greece has been grappling with a significant increase in cruise ship arrivals, leading to overcrowding and strain on local infrastructure. Each day, Titan cruise ships transport thousands of visitors to the port of Mykonos, who then flock to the charming town of Chora, causing congestion and chaos.
The situation reached a new level recently when five cruise ships docked side by side in the port, giving the appearance of a massive parking lot for cruise ships. According to the Hellenic Ports Association, a staggering 895 cruise ships are expected to visit Mykonos and the nearby island of Delos this year, a significant jump from the 608 ships that visited last year. In June alone, 131 cruise ships are scheduled to make a stop at Mykonos. Santorini, another popular Greek island, is also experiencing a surge in cruise ship arrivals, with an estimated total of 753 ships expected to visit by the end of the year, compared to 686 in 2022. In June, Santorini anticipates welcoming 112 cruise ships.
However, the real challenge lies ahead as the peak tourist season approaches in August. On August 22, the island is preparing for the arrival of a whopping eight cruise ships, bringing approximately 3,500 passengers who will disembark at 8:00 in the morning. By the end of the day, an astounding 15,000 new tourists will have flooded Mykonos, equivalent to the population of the entire municipality of Thira.
The tourist surge has exposed the island's lack of proper infrastructure to handle such a large influx. Mina Lyristis, a South Aegean regional councillor and resident of Mykonos, highlights that the problem extends beyond the sheer number of visitors. The inadequacy of facilities, including public toilets and other amenities at the port, cannot simultaneously accommodate the passengers from nine cruise ships. As a resident, Lyristis has personally experienced the consequences of over-tourism in Mykonos.
The impact of thousands of tourists descending upon the island simultaneously is evident in scenes of chaos. Whether arriving in organized groups with tour guides or independently seeking a coffee and exploring Chora, the sheer volume of people overwhelms the island. Lyristis emphasizes that this situation hampers both the tourists' ability to fully enjoy their stay due to overcrowding and the local employees' ability to provide adequate service to all guests.
The challenges Mykonos and other popular Greek islands face highlight the need for careful planning and investment in infrastructure to accommodate the growing tourism industry. Without proper measures in place, the allure of these breathtaking destinations may be overshadowed by the negative consequences of over-tourism.
Photos
Georgios Hatzimanolis
@GHatz21
