Morocco, a land steeped in history, of vibrant culture, and gifted with unforgettable stunning landscapes, is a holiday heaven for the crowds. With Marrakech’s bustling roads, Agadir’s beaches bathed in sunshine, and the Sahara Desert, Morocco has something for every traveler. One of the most thrilling and picturesque means of arriving in this beautiful country is by ferry. Let’s discuss everything you should know regarding taking the ferry to Morocco, from the best routes to tips on having a hassle-free trip.
Why Take the Ferry to Morocco?
Ferries to Morocco provide experiences that you can’t get by driving or flying. Not only is it more scenic and laid-back travel, but it also allows one to enjoy the travel. The ferry’s Mediterranean or Atlantic ocean scenery is generally stunning, and if you are lucky, you can even spot dolphins or whales when crossing.
For Europeans, a ferry is also a greener option than a flight. Taking a ferry as a form of transport also means you can take your car with you, so it’s easier to travel around Morocco.
Ferry Routes to Morocco
There are various ferry routes from Europe to Morocco, most from France, Spain, and Italy. The most popular and used routes are from Spain’s south coast to Morocco, but there are also available routes from other European terminals.
Spain to Morocco:
- Algeciras to Tangier Med: This is the busiest and most used route, with sailings daily. It is around 1.5 hours away and is ideally located for people traveling from the south of Spain.
- Tarifa to Tangier Ville: Tarifa ferry only takes 35 minutes, one of the shortest routes to reach Morocco and a quicker, less expensive alternative.
- Malaga to Nador: Less but good one if coming from Costa del Sol area. Travel time is 5-6 hours.
France to Morocco
- Sete to Tangier: For those arriving from southern France, this option involves Leaving Sete on the French Mediterranean coast. Traveling by ferry, which is slow and leisurely, can take approximately 36 hours.
Italy to Morocco:
- Genoa to Tangier Med: This long route takes about 48 hours, making it ideal for individuals who wish to relax on the journey from Italy to Morocco.
1. Ferry Schedule and Booking
Ferry timetables change according to route and season. July to September is usually the busiest, with daily sailings from Spain. Off-season ferry routes will operate less frequently or be closed on some days.
It is always best to pre-book your ferry tickets, especially if you have a vehicle or are traveling during peak season. You can purchase tickets online through the websites of different ferry operators or third-party ticket sites. Ensure you take note of the departure times since ferries typically leave early morning or late night.
2. What to Expect on Board
Morocco ferries are modern, and you can enjoy a range of onboard facilities during the crossing. Depending on the ferry operator, you can look forward to:
- Relaxed seating lounges: Relax in lounges or booked seating with air conditioning.
- Cafeterias and restaurants: Most ferries include dining rooms, where you can enjoy a hot meal or snack on board during the crossing.
- Private cabins: If you are making a longer crossing, like from Italy or France, then it could be worth spending a bit of extra money on a private cabin for that little bit more comfort.
- Duty-free shopping: Some ferries have a small duty-free shop that retails alcohol, snacks, and souvenirs.
- Entertainment: Some ferries offer entertainment in the form of films or live music to make travelers cheerful during the trip.
3. Traveling with a Vehicle
If you’re traveling by car, camper van, or motorcycle, ferries to Morocco can be a great option. Many ferry operators allow vehicles on board, but booking in advance is essential to secure your spot. Remember that vehicles may have specific boarding requirements, such as more significant vehicle size limits and additional fees.
Having a car in Morocco allows you to travel wherever you want, whether to the Atlas Mountains or the beaches at Essaouira. But expect some difficulties, such as driving through the tight city streets and coping with the occasionally manic traffic.
Conclusion
Taking a ferry to Morocco with FerryNav is an unforgettable experience that adds an extra layer of adventure to your journey. Whether you’re traveling from Spain, France, or Italy, there’s a ferry route to suit your needs. It offers a unique way to experience both the sea and the vibrant culture of Morocco. With a little preparation, your ferry journey will be the perfect start to your Moroccan adventure!
