Oslo council proposes new cruise ship fee to fund city upkeep

Oslo’s city council is set to vote on a new fee targeting cruise ships that call at the city’s port, with the aim of financing upkeep of municipal facilities. Council member Marit Vea explained that increasing numbers of cruise visitors strain public amenities such as restrooms, cleaning services and shared outdoor areas. The tax would be levied per passenger for each full day the ship is docked, and the council hopes it will help balance budget pressures.

The national government recently allowed municipalities to implement such a charge, and Oslo negotiated its inclusion in last year’s city agreement. If approved by a council majority, the tax would take effect in January 2027.