More than 2.7 million people visit the Island of Capri every year, with it being a popular destination for ‘day-trippers’ who arrive in the morning and return to nearby Naples before sunset.
While it may be a lovely place to visit, unsuspecting Brits could land a hefty fine if not careful of a little-known rule to do with water bottles.
Little-known water bottle rule that could land Brits £435 fine on holiday
Strict rules were introduced back in 2019 around the use of single-use plastics.
The former Mayor of Capri, Gianni De Martino, approved an order banning all non-biodegradable single-use plastics from the Neapolitan municipality.
This rule applies to tourists and residents.
Despite the change being introduced seven years ago, travel expert and executive director of John Mason International Movers, Simon Hood, said few Brits are truly aware of the rule.
And breaking the law could land travellers a €500 (around £435) fine.
Mr Hood said: “Capri isn’t a municipality historically recognised for environmental work.
“The long-standing association of the island being a hotspot with movie stars, A-list celebs, and influencers has traditionally meant many of these concerns were ignored but mass tourism has seen changes come thick and fast in recent years.
“The island’s authorities are becoming increasingly worried about the effects of the growing tourism numbers on the local population and environment.
“In 2019, a ban on single-use plastics came into force, banning plastic bags, cups, utensils, water bottles, straws and even coffee stirrers.
“Authorities have been empowered to fine those caught swigging from a plastic bottle up to €500 – it may seem excessive, but it is well intentioned.”
Capri authorities remain on a “state of heightened alert” on beaches and the coastal strip, Mr Hood warned, while the law also targets bars and restaurants in the area.
Who is most likely to be caught out by plastics ban in Capri
Of the 50,000 daily visitors to Capri, it is estimated that around 91% are day trippers who arrive in the morning and return to nearby Naples before sunset.
And it is the people visiting the Italian island for the day that are most at risk, Mr Hood said.
He explained: “It’s something that would catch me out, the ban aimed at bars and restaurants has influenced what can be bought and sold locally.
“But for the day trippers, the likelihood you’ll bring a non-biodegradable plastic bottle on your trip is high.
“Considering this, I’d say think twice and consider whether you want to run the risk of receiving a €500 fine.”
Mr Hood recommended travellers “thoroughly research” any area they are travelling to, to avoid being caught out by little-known rules like the single-use plastic ban in Capri.
Have you been caught out by the single-use plastic ban in Capri? Let us know in the poll above or in the comments below.
