Ibiza Moves to Curb Overtourism, Limits Cruise Ship Dockings

On September 13, the Council of Mayors of Ibiza took action to address the issue of overtourism, with a specific emphasis on limiting the influx from cruise ships. The main concern is the overcrowding caused by multiple cruise ships docking simultaneously, leading to large numbers of tourists arriving in short time frames.

The council has introduced several measures to tackle the issue. A key decision is to restrict the number of cruise ships allowed to dock at the same time to just two, in order to better manage the flow of visitors. Additionally, the Council plans to work closely with the Authority of the Balearic Islands to better coordinate cruise ship arrivals and manage passenger numbers.

Another focus is on regulating multifamily accommodations, where tourists stay in private homes without proper permits. New rules impose a fine of 75% of the property’s value for hosting tourists without the necessary legal authorization.

In 2023, Ibiza saw 548,969 cruise passengers, representing an 86% increase from the previous year. To put it in context, Ibiza, which spans 21 miles in length and covers an area of 200 square miles, has a resident population of about 160,000. This influx of tourists results in visitor numbers exceeding three times the local population.

While tourism is a significant source of revenue for Ibiza, many locals have raised concerns about the strain it puts on the island. Issues such as long waits for public transport, overcrowded public spaces, and rising property prices have been frequently cited by residents.