Majorca Implements Summer Tourist Cap to Safeguard City
In a significant move to address overtourism, the Spanish island of Majorca, a top destination for British holidaymakers, is set to introduce a cap on tourist numbers during the summer months. The new measures, aimed at protecting the city of Palma, will see a reduction in daily cruise ship berths from 8,500 to 7,500 between June and September, effective from 2027 to 2029.
Details of the Cruise Ship Restrictions
Under the arrangement, only three cruise ships will be permitted to dock in the Port of Palma each day, with a maximum of one vessel allowed to carry over 5,000 passengers. This reduction of 1,000 berths during the peak travel season is expected to impact tourists arriving via cruise ships, who typically disembark to explore the city's attractions. Outside the summer period, the berth limit will remain at 8,500, ensuring some flexibility for off-season travel.
The initiative is part of a broader agreement involving the Balearic Government, Palma City Council, and 20 cruise lines, which will remain in place until 2031. According to local reports, the goal is to regulate cruise activity and safeguard the interests of Palma, particularly its historic centre, from the pressures of overcrowding.
Background on Overtourism and Protests
Majorca has long grappled with overtourism, with tourist arrivals to the Balearic Islands reaching 18.7 million in 2024 and over 19 million in 2025. The local population stands at approximately 1.2 million, including around 18,000 British expats, highlighting the strain on resources and infrastructure. In previous years, thousands of Spanish residents have protested against unchecked tourism, and further demonstrations are anticipated this summer amid claims that government sustainability efforts have fallen short.
Margalida Ramis from the environmental group GOB criticised the government's inaction, stating that little has been done to tackle the issue. Additionally, a proposal by the opposition party PSOE to limit annual visitor numbers to 17.8 million was rejected earlier this year, underscoring the challenges in implementing broader tourism controls.
Impact on British Tourists
With more than 2 million British visitors estimated to have travelled to Majorca in 2025, and over 19 million Brits visiting Spain overall last year, the new cap could affect a significant number of UK holidaymakers. The restrictions are designed to balance tourism revenue with environmental and social concerns, aiming to create a more sustainable model for the island's future.
As the summer restrictions are set to conclude in 2029, stakeholders will monitor their effectiveness in mitigating overtourism while maintaining the island's appeal as a premier travel destination.
