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Crossing from Spain to Morocco by ferry is the classic way to arrive, and the only practical option if you are taking your own car. The shortest crossing takes about an hour. This guide compares the main routes so you can pick the right port, and explains how to avoid the worst of the summer queues.
The main ferry routes from Spain to Morocco
| Route | Typical crossing time | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Tarifa to Tangier Ville | About 1 h | Arrives in the centre of Tangier, ideal for foot passengers |
| Algeciras to Tanger Med | About 1 h 30 min | The busiest route for cars. Tanger Med port is about 40 km east of Tangier |
| Algeciras to Ceuta | About 1 h | Ceuta is a Spanish city. You then cross the land border into Morocco |
| Malaga to Melilla | About 6 to 8 h | Melilla is a Spanish city next to Nador |
| Almeria to Nador | About 6 to 8 h | Popular with families heading to the east of Morocco |
| Motril to Tanger Med or Al Hoceima | Several hours | Useful from Granada and the east of Andalusia |
Crossing times and timetables vary by operator, ship and season. Always check the latest timetable before travelling.
Companies that operate on these routes include FRS, Balearia, Naviera Armas Trasmediterranea and AML, among others.
Which route should you choose?
- On foot, visiting Tangier: Tarifa to Tangier Ville. Short crossing, and you arrive right in the city.
- With a car, heading anywhere in Morocco: Algeciras to Tanger Med has the most departures and connects straight to the motorway.
- Going to Nador, Oujda or the east: Almeria to Nador, or Malaga to Melilla, saves a long drive across northern Morocco.
Travelling in summer: the Marhaba period
Every summer, hundreds of thousands of Moroccans living in Europe drive home for the holidays. The busiest weeks are usually from mid-July to mid-August, with the return peak at the end of August. During this time:
- Book early, especially for cars and on weekends.
- Arrive at the port with plenty of time, and expect long queues at border and customs checks.
- Carry the right documents: passports, car registration, your driving licence and valid insurance for Morocco.
- Bring water and food for waiting time in the heat.
Is flying cheaper?
If you are not taking a car, often yes. A short flight from Madrid, Barcelona, Malaga or Seville to Tangier, Nador or Fes can be cheaper and faster than travelling down to the port and crossing. Compare below.
Not taking a car? Compare flights to northern Morocco before you book the ferry.
Book the rest of your Morocco trip
- Car rental in Morocco: pick up a car in Tangier or Tetouan if you cross as a foot passenger.
- Morocco eSIM: mobile data as soon as you reach the port, handy for maps and ferry updates.
- Port and airport transfers: a pre-booked driver to take you from the port or airport to your hotel.
- Travel insurance: cover for medical costs and trip cancellation.
Frequently asked questions
What is the shortest ferry crossing from Spain to Morocco?
Tarifa to Tangier Ville and Algeciras to Ceuta both take around one hour.
Can I take my car on the ferry to Morocco?
Yes. Most routes carry cars. You need the car registration documents and insurance valid in Morocco, which you can often buy at the border if your policy does not cover it.
Where do passport checks happen?
It depends on the route. On some crossings Moroccan police stamp passports on board, on others the check is at the port. Follow the crew instructions.