Spanish government officials said they could not approve restrictions on cruise ships because there is currently no legal standing to do so.
“In the absence of the necessary legal support,” the Department of Transport and Sustainable Mobility cannot currently enforce restrictions on cruise ship operations in response to written questions from MPs.
The two MPs wanted answers to the government’s plans to manage cruise tourism at a responsible level. The government responded that it would first require prior agreement with cruise lines, cruise industry service providers and other stakeholders.
Lawmakers want a stricter regulatory framework to manage cruise ship traffic and its impact on the environment.
Spanish cruise ports impose vessel restrictions
This comes as Barcelona’s city government moves to restrict cruise ships. The city recently closed the downtown World Trade Center Pier to large cruise ships. This pier is a short walk to the famous Las Ramblas district.
Currently, cruise ships will dock at the more remote Mor Dadosa pier. City officials said shore power will be installed at the pier in the future to reduce pollution from cruise ships. Also, in April this year, the price for cruise passengers and tourists visiting Barcelona will increase from 2.75 euros to 3.25 euros.
In 2022, Mallorca’s Palma Port will cap the number of cruise ships operating per day at three. Just one of her ships can have a guest capacity of over 5,000. This rule will remain in effect until at least 2025. Palma is a top base for Mediterranean cruises, attracting approximately 2.5 million cruise passengers each year.