Rhodes shopkeepers oppose planned ‘Landing Fee’ for Turkish visitors as ferry traffic surges past 420,000

Shopkeepers and tourism businesses in Rhodes have voiced strong opposition to the possible introduction of a “landing fee” on Turkish visitors, warning that such a measure could discourage arrivals and harm local trade.

Local retailers argue that visitors from Türkiye play a vital role in supporting the island’s economy. “Turkish holidaymakers contribute to every corner of the economy here,” one shopkeeper said, stressing that any new charge would be counterproductive.

What the “Landing Fee” means

The proposed “landing fee” refers to a per-visitor charge collected at ports from travelers arriving by ferry or cruise ship.

Heavy two-way traffic between Marmaris and Rhodes

According to Turkish media reports, more than 420,000 passengers traveled on the Marmaris–Rhodes ferry route during the first ten months of 2025. Around 122,500 of them were Turkish citizens, highlighting the close social and economic ties between the two sides of the Aegean.

Why some islands are introducing fees

Several smaller Aegean islands plan to impose a €3–€5 fee on day-trippers arriving by ferry. Local authorities say the funds will help cover costs related to waste management, water supply, infrastructure maintenance, and the protection of heritage sites during the busy summer months.

Where fees are planned — and where they are not

Planned pilot programs: Symi, Fiaki, and Paxos are preparing to introduce a €3–€5 fee for ferry day-trippers.

Cruise-only fees: Santorini and Mykonos already charge cruise passengers €4–€20 depending on the season.

Hotel levy: Greece’s nationwide “Climate Resilience Tax” adds roughly €8–€15 per night to hotel stays, varying by season.

No landing fee yet: Rhodes, Kos, Lesvos, and Chios have no such fee in place.

Local concerns in Rhodes

Business owners on Rhodes say the island’s tourism depends heavily on the steady flow of short-term visitors from nearby Turkish ports. They fear that any new fee would reduce arrivals and undermine efforts to strengthen cross-Aegean cooperation.

“A landing fee would hurt Turkish visitor numbers,” a retailer said. “Turks contribute to every corner of the economy here.”