Nice Mayor Proposes Ban on Large Cruise Ships by 2025

The mayor of Nice, Christian Estrosi, is proposing a ban on large cruise ships, citing concerns over pollution and the negative impact of low-cost tourists on the local economy. Estrosi plans to implement a bylaw that would prohibit ships longer than 190 meters and with a capacity of over 900 passengers from docking in Nice and Villefranche-sur-Mer, potentially reducing cruise passenger numbers by 70%. He argues that these 'floating hotels' do not align with the city's desired tourist model and contribute to overtourism and environmental degradation. While environmentalists support the initiative, local business owners express concern about the potential loss of customers. Similar restrictions have been seen in other European destinations such as Venice and Barcelona. The proposed ban is set to take effect by July 1, 2025, pending collaboration with neighboring municipalities.