Cruise Ship Size Limits Officially Set for French Riviera Ports

After a summer of confusion and infighting over who had the right to set cruise ship limits at ports in the French Riviera, officials have finally settled on a policy moving forward, according to UK-based Travel Mole.

The policy was finalized by the regional prefect for the Alpes-Maritimes after continued conflicts between three local governments, which happen to overlap in terms of jurisdiction over the Bay of Cannes (which covers the ports of Nice, Cannes, and Villefranche). Two of these governments had attempted to issue their own restrictions, which the others disagreed with and were ultimately found unconstitutional.

Multiple meetings were held between all those involved in order to come to a consensus that all could agree on.

Going forward, cruise ships of no more than 3,000 passengers will be permitted to visit the French Riviera, with only ship per day for any ship up to 1,300 passengers. Additionally, during high season (July to August), a maximum of 15 ships per month is permitted.

Cruise ships that adopt the region’s “sustainable cruise in the Mediterranean” charter will be prioritized when there is a schedule conflict. The charter was announced earlier this year and calls for the use of more eco-friendly fuels and reduced emissions when ships are docked in port or anchored close by.