The scary reason cruise lines are avoiding the Mediterranean
For decades it’s been one of the world’s top cruise destinations, but growing instability in the Mediterranean means many lines have pulled ships from the regions or changed their itineraries. And as many governments warn their citizens to avoid certain countries around the Med, it could mean big changes for the industry into the future.
The problems began in early 2015 when a terror attack in Tunisia, a North African country that borders the Mediterranean, appeared to directly target cruise ship passengers. On March 20 17 passengers from MSC Cruises and Costa Cruises ships were killed by gunmen at the National Bardo Museum in the capital, Tunis, and most major cruise lines immediately cancelled future calls to the city.
Fast forward to mid 2016 and terrorist attacks in Turkey have seen many lines cancel port calls for the capital Istanbul and other regional ports. While these attacks were not directed at cruise passengers, cruise lines feel that they cannot guarantee the safety of their passengers in these destinations.
The ongoing Syrian refugee crisis is also having an impact on cruising in the region. Many smaller ports, such as those in the Greek islands, are suffering from an influx of displaced persons and travellers are looking to other destinations. No lines have specifically cancelled port calls in response to the crisis, however it is emblematic of an overall downturn for destinations affected.
So what does this mean for cruisers? Overall, there are still plenty of cruise options in the Mediterranean. Lines are now focusing more on western Mediterranean itineraries, calling at ports in Spain, France, Italy or along the Adriatic Coast and steering clear of Turkey, Greece and North Africa. Some are moving ships away from Europe and increasing their presence in areas like the Caribbean, at least for the next year or so. Others are looking to new destinations in Europe, like Scandinavia, the Baltic or the British Isles.
We predict the Mediterranean will bounce back and that positive changes in the current political and economic climate will see more ships returning to the region in coming years. If you’re concerned about safety the world is full of incredible cruise destinations waiting to be explored.
Related links:
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