The Principality of Monaco is to step up checks on cruise ships calling at the Port Hercule

Until 13 November, 117 cruise ships are scheduled to call in the Principality. The Princely Government, in collaboration with the Société d'exploitation des ports de Monaco, has set targets for controls, both on the administrative side and on fuel sampling.

Since 5 April, their sturdy silhouettes have reappeared on the quay of the Rainier-III dam or at anchor in Monaco's territorial waters, spilling hundreds of passengers into the territory.

Over the year, until 13 November, 117 cruise ships are scheduled to call, which represents a potential of around 58,000 passengers. With an estimated 18 hours of presence, generally from early morning until late evening, their presence is an economic boon for the country's traders, particularly those on the Rock.
Since April 2022 and the resumption of cruises in Monaco, the local authorities have been applying a new policy towards this sector, which is known to be a major polluter.

"The size of the boats received is limited to 250 metres and their capacity to 1,250 passengers", summarises Olivier Lavagna, general manager of the Société d'exploitation des ports de Monaco (SEPM). The Luxury and Premium categories have thus been favoured over the sea-going behemoths that can reach 300 metres and accommodate 3,000 to 4,000 people.