A palm tree on the island of Mallorca continues to regulate cruise tourism in order to reduce peak pressure on the city. The Government of the Balearic Islands has confirmed the continuation of the principle: no more than three cruise ships at the same time in the port, only one of which may have a capacity of more than 5,000 main passenger berths.
The new memorandum between the regional authorities, the city of Palma, and the cruise companies is dated 27 February 2026 and covers the 2027-2031 seasons. The document sets out the voluntary commitments of the parties regarding event planning and the sustainable development of cruise tourism.
How will passenger capacity be calculated?
The agreement provides for a base figure of 8 500 standard passenger berths per day on average over the week. In June-September 2027, 2028, and 2029, this figure decreases to 7 500.
This refers to lower berths - the capacity of ships by their main sleeping berths, usually for double occupancy. This is not the actual number of tourists who went ashore.
Therefore, the 7 500 figure is not a fixed quota for each day of the year. The planning criteria apply to ships with a capacity of 500 standard passenger berths or more.
The following companies have joined the agreement
Among the signatories to the memorandum are MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara. The list also includes Explora Journeys, Princess Cruises, Cunard and other operators.
On 10 September 2026, the Government of the Balearic Islands announced the accession of Celestyal. According to the authorities, the number of participating companies has reached 27.
In addition to limiting the simultaneous presence of ships, the arrangements provide for a more even distribution of calls throughout the year, preparations for shore power and public monitoring of compliance with the agreement.
Are cruises canceled for Mallorca?
The memorandum does not impose a general ban on cruise activities in Palma. It defines the procedure for planning them. If an application does not comply with the agreed restrictions, an alternative set of dates is proposed.
For passengers, the practical takeaway is simple: you need to check the specific sailing, date, and length of the port stop. The agreement notice itself does not provide grounds to consider an already booked cruise canceled.
If Majorca is the main reason for choosing the trip, before booking you should clarify:
whether Palma is included in the current itinerary;
how much time the liner will spend in port;
the conditions for changing or canceling separately purchased excursions;
how the cruise company notifies passengers about program adjustments.
Why does Palma regulate cruise tourism?
According to the Government of the Balearic Islands, the purpose of these agreements is to combine the economic benefit of cruises with the protection of natural resources and the quality of life of local residents. Particular attention is paid to the distribution of tourist flows and reducing the seasonal concentration of visitors.
To ensure oversight, the authorities have created an open information section with the text of the memorandum and statistics on cruise activities.
Are you planning a Mediterranean cruise with a visit to Mallorca? The Cruise-Life team will help you check the current itinerary, the time spent in Palma, and the conditions of the chosen trip.