Introduction
Traveling to Morocco by ferry is one of the most scenic and practical ways to reach North Africa from Europe. Whether you’re coming from Spain, France, or Italy, ferries offer flexibility, affordability, and the chance to bring your car along. In this guide, we’ll break down the best ferry routes to Morocco, their prices, travel times, and which travelers they suit best.
1. Spain to Morocco – The Most Popular Choice
Most tourists prefer ferries from Spain because of their short duration and frequent schedules.
a. Tarifa to Tangier Ville
- Duration: 1 hour
- Best for: Day trips and travelers staying in Tangier city
- Operators: FRS, Intershipping
- Why choose it: Fastest and most convenient crossing
b. Algeciras to Tangier Med
- Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
- Best for: Travelers with cars, trucks, or heading deeper into Morocco
- Operators: Balearia, AML, FRS
- Why choose it: Frequent departures, large ferries, cheaper prices
c. Algeciras to Ceuta
- Duration: 1 hour
- Best for: Entering Morocco by road via the Ceuta border
- Why choose it: Alternative entry point, less crowded than Tangier Med
d. Motril, Malaga & Almeria to Nador or Al Hoceima
- Duration: 5 – 7 hours
- Best for: Travelers heading to northern or eastern Morocco
- Why choose it: Overnight ferries, ideal for families and long trips
2. France to Morocco – Longer but Convenient
For travelers starting from central or northern Europe, ferries from France are a good option.
a. Sete to Tangier Med
- Duration: 36 – 40 hours
- Best for: Tourists traveling with cars from France, Germany, or Belgium
- Operators: Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV)
- Why choose it: Direct route, avoids driving through Spain
b. Marseille to Tangier Med
- Duration: 36 hours
- Best for: Southern France travelers
- Why choose it: Strong alternative to Sete route
3. Italy to Morocco – Scenic but Long
If you are traveling from Italy, you can also find ferry routes connecting to Morocco.
a. Genoa to Tangier Med
- Duration: 50 hours
- Best for: Tourists traveling from Italy, Switzerland, or southern Germany
- Operators: GNV
- Why choose it: A scenic but long Mediterranean journey
4. Which Route Should You Choose?
- For fast trips: Tarifa – Tangier Ville
- For cars/trucks: Algeciras – Tangier Med
- For northern/eastern Morocco: Motril/Almeria – Nador
- For direct access from France: Sete – Tangier Med
- For scenic long routes: Genoa – Tangier Med
FAQs
1. What is the cheapest ferry route to Morocco?
Generally, Algeciras to Tangier Med offers the cheapest tickets due to high competition and frequent departures.
2. Can I take my car on the ferry to Morocco?
Yes, most ferries from Spain, France, and Italy allow vehicles. Tarifa – Tangier Ville is mainly for foot passengers, while Algeciras – Tangier Med is ideal for cars.
3. Do I need a visa to enter Morocco by ferry?
Citizens of the EU, UK, US, and many other countries can enter Morocco visa-free for up to 90 days. Always check updated entry requirements.
4. Are ferries to Morocco safe and comfortable?
Yes, major operators like FRS, Balearia, AML, and GNV offer modern ferries with lounges, restaurants, and comfortable seating.
5. Can I book Morocco ferry tickets online?
Absolutely! Booking in advance online guarantees better prices and avoids long queues at ports.