The European Union's new Entry/Exit System (EES) is projected to cause significant travel disruptions this summer, with reports of delays and long queues already emerging at various airports. The automated digital border system, implemented for non-EU nationals entering the Schengen Area, has been operational since April and affects travelers from countries including the UK.
Lisbon, Portugal, and Milan, Italy, have been identified as particularly affected areas. Rome Fiumicino Airport, for instance, has seen border crossing times for UK nationals triple, from seven minutes to approximately 20 minutes. Travel expert Simon Calder has previously described Milan Malpensa Airport as a hub experiencing considerable EES delays.
Spain's Travel Hurdles
Popular Spanish destinations are also facing EES-related congestion. Málaga Airport has experienced significant queues, with one report detailing a British holidaymaker missing a flight due to delays. Alicante Airport's police union has indicated that the airport is strained by the new system and staffing issues, warning of potential 'breaking point' conditions.
Cruising as an Alternative
To circumvent potential airport chaos, cruise lines are offering voyages that visit these popular European destinations. For travelers aiming to visit Spain, P&O Cruises offers a 14-night Mediterranean voyage in August 2027 that includes stops in Málaga and Alicante, departing from Southampton. Prices for this itinerary start at £1,579 per person.
Italy, with its reported long queues at airports like Milan Malpensa and Milan Linate, can also be accessed via cruise. Princess Cruises' Seven-Day Western Mediterranean with Italy voyage, departing from Barcelona on August 15, 2027, stops in Genoa, the closest port to Milan. Passengers can reach Milan by train in about 1.5 hours. Prices for this cruise begin at £849 per person.
Another option for exploring Italy is Fred Olsen's 18-night Discovering Italy With The Amalfi Coast trip in September 2026. This cruise departs from Southampton and includes stops in Olbia, Salerno, Sorrento, and Cagliari, as well as scenic views of the Amalfi Coast. Prices for this voyage start at £3,499 per person.
France and Portugal Through the Ports
France's major airports, including Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Paris Beauvais, have also been cited for EES delays. Royal Caribbean offers a three-day Paris Getaway cruise, departing from Southampton on September 17, 2027, which includes a stop at Le Havre. From Le Havre, Paris is accessible by car in approximately two hours. This cruise is priced from £414 per person.
Lisbon, Portugal, which has faced 'complete chaos' at its airport according to some reports, is also a port of call on P&O Cruises' 10-night Spain, France and Portugal voyage, departing August 25, 2027. This itinerary allows passengers a full day to explore Lisbon. Other Portuguese ports, such as Leixoes, offer access to Porto.
Amsterdam and Beyond
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport has been ranked among the worst for EES queues. As an alternative, MSC offers a seven-night voyage aboard the MSC Preziosa, departing Southampton on October 30, 2026. The itinerary includes stops in Hamburg, Amsterdam, Zeebrugge, and Le Havre, allowing passengers a full day to explore Amsterdam without airport delays. Prices for this cruise start at £539 per person.