The complete guide to traveling by ferry from Barcelona to Morocco: routes, tips, tickets and more

If the European colorfulness of Barcelona is not enough for you and you would like to enrich yourself with more lively experiences, it may be an interesting choice for you journey from Barcelona to Morocco by ferry. 

And you won't be alone - a lot of tourists and travelers choose to take a ferry to Morocco they want to cross off visiting Africa from their bucket list. 

GNV ferry in port in Morocco

There are ferries departing from Barcelona towards the Moroccan coast a great gateway to the world of rich culture and beautiful landscapes.

With multiple sailings each week, you can easily plan your trip and explore Morocco's charming cities, beaches and countryside. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, this ferry route is your ticket to an unforgettable experience.

Overview of the ferry on the route Barcelona - Morocco

The ferry route from Barcelona to Morocco is direct and similarly to others waterways there is not much to surprise you here: you simply board the ferry in Port of Barcelona and after about 30 hours of sailing you will disembark on the North African coast. And a little later you can explore the bustling markets of Tangier or relax on the quiet beaches of Al Hoceima. 

Ferries from Barcelona to Morocco depart several times a week (more often in high season), providing plenty of flexibility for your travel plans. 

The most popular ferry routes include:

• Barcelona - Tangier (search for tickets)
• Barcelona – Nador (search for tickets)

If you would like to travel to another place on the African continent, I recommend approaching Gibraltar by train or bus and choose one of the ports there and then embark. Other popular ferry routes:

• Algeciras - Ceuta
• Algeciras - Tangier Med
• Tariff - Tanger Ville

In the case of a direct connection from Barcelona to Morocco you can get it in about 30 to 36 hours on average. It all depends on the type of ferry you choose for your trip. 

The level of service varies quite a bit by cruise line. The largest ferry operators such as Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV) or Baleária offer on long routes a truly comfortable experience comparable to staying in a hotel – on board you have luxurious cabins, lounge, lobby, restaurants, swimming pools and others. 

Sample price of a ferry ticket from Barcelona to Morocco

Prices for the ferry from Barcelona to Morocco range from approximately €50 to €180 depending on season and service level. In the summer, the prices are logically higher, in the winter the price of the boat ticket can reach the lower mentioned limit. 

As with other ferries from Barcelona, ​​the routes to Morocco are served by giant ships, so it is quite common to board with your vehicle, for example. 

Ferries from Barcelona depart from the port near the World Trade Center

Choosing the right ferry

When choosing a ferry from Barcelona to Morocco, there are several different factors to consider that will have a major impact on your journey: ferry operator, price, level of service and equipment. 

Choosing a cruise company

Ferry routes are operated by several companies:

• GNV (Grandi Navi Veloci): This carrier is known for high-speed sailings and offers modern vessels with comfortable seats and on-board entertainment, see website for more
• Balearia: Balearia is renowned for its excellent customer service and operates both high-speed and standard ferries to suit a variety of travel preferences, see website for more
• FRS (Ferrys Rápidos del Sur): rather smaller ferries that cover the distance between Gibraltar and Morocco in about an hour, see website for more
• AML (Africa Morocco Link): AML is similar to FRS with smaller fast ships, but from the Moroccan side, see website for more

Each operator offers different benefits, so comparing timetables, routes and onboard equipment helps you make an informed choice.

Where to buy cheap ferry tickets from Barcelona to Morocco?

Ferry ticket prices from Barcelona to Morocco vary significantly depending on demand and timing of booking.

I recommend it for searching boarding passes FerryHopper

Ticket type	Dinner	Description
Standard class	€ 40 - € 80	Basic seating with access to equipment.
Premium class	€ 60 - € 180	Upgraded seating and other perks.
Vehicle ticket	€ 100 - € 250	Extra charge if you want to transport a car or other vehicle

Booking in advance usually results in lower prices. Costs can also be affected by seasonal fluctuations, when prices often increase. By monitoring price trends and promotions, you can maximize savings when planning your trip.

Information about the ferry trip

Traveling by ferry from Barcelona to Morocco offers a unique combination of comfort and adventure. During the trip, you will enjoy a number of amenities and at the same time you will enjoy wonderful views of the sea.

Equipment on board

• Ferries provide a variety of amenities for a pleasant experience. Modern lounges offer comfortable seating where you can relax or have fun with your fellow travelers. The restaurants serve a variety of food, from local dishes to international cuisine, to satisfy a variety of tastes.
• You can usually find it on board several shops where you can buy basic things such as food or drinks. 
• Many ships also have outdoor decks where you can relax enjoy fresh air and a panoramic view of the Mediterranean Sea.

If you have more options for the travel date, I definitely recommend finding the specification of individual ferries, their equipment and level of service. It can vary quite fundamentally. 

Sailing time to Morocco

The journey time from Barcelona to Morocco varies depending on the type of ferry. High-speed ferries make the journey in around 30 hours, which enables faster access to the destination.

Standard ferries are slower and take up to 36 hours, so you can enjoy the experience of the trip. Regular departures take place several times a week, allowing flexible travel planning. Always check the current timetables to ensure you travel on time.

(If you were going to Morocco from Tarifa and not from Barcelona, you will find yourself on the territory of Africa in just 1 hour)

FRS high-speed ferry on the route Tarifa - Tangier

Overview of popular destinations in Morocco

Morocco boasts a number of breathtaking destinations, each of which offers unique experiences and cultural richness. Highlights include Tangier, Nador and Ceuta, all easily accessible by ferry from Spain. 

Tangier

Tangier is a lively gateway to Morocco, where history meets modernity. In the medina you will find narrow streets full of traditional shops, cafes and art galleries that showcase local handicrafts. The kasbah, which rises above the city, offers a magnificent view of the Atlantic Ocean and the Strait of Gibraltar. You can explore the nearby beaches, such as Playa de los Clicos, which is the perfect place for a relaxing day by the sea.

Nador

Nador is a port city in northeastern Morocco. Compared to the busy tourist centers, it is a quieter place offering an authentic view of life in the area. Situated on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, its picturesque coastline is ideal for strolling along the sea and visiting less frequented beaches such as Plage Kariat Arekmane. The city boasts modern boulevards, traditional markets and an atmosphere that combines relaxed everyday life with a touch of Moroccan culture. The markets in Nador offer fresh fish, vegetables and traditional Moroccan products, giving you an insight into local life. Nador is also an excellent starting point for trips to the surrounding nature, such as the Mar Chica lagoon, where you can observe different species of birds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere away from the tourist hustle and bustle.

Ceuta

Ceuta is an autonomous city on the north coast of Morocco offering a unique mix of cultures. Thanks to its strategic location, Spanish and Moroccan influences mix here. The historic city features impressive architecture, including the Royal Walls and the Plaza de Africa. You can explore the local markets full of colorful produce, spices and handicrafts. Nature lovers can enjoy the picturesque views from Monte Hacho showing the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea. The city's diverse culinary scene offers a taste of both Moroccan and Mediterranean specialties, making it a must-visit destination.

Tips for a smooth ferry ride

Planning ahead will improve your Barcelona to Morocco ferry experience. Consider practical tips to ensure a smooth trip.

Book tickets in advance

Booking ferry tickets in advance ensures the best prices and availability. Early bookings often provide discounts, especially during peak travel seasons. Check timetables and prices regularly to adjust your plans accordingly. For easy access and clarity, use reliable booking platforms such as ferry hopper or the official website of the ferry operators.

Get to know the Port of Barcelona

Based on my experience, I recommend that you familiarize yourself with where exactly it is located Port of Barcelona and find out where your ferry will depart from. Be sure to be there several hours before departure, as boarding and all checks will take some time. 

What to take with you on your trip? 

Carry essentials such as travel documents, ID and tickets, which are necessary to board the ferry. For added convenience, bring personal items such as medicine and toiletries. Dress in layers for changing temperatures as the climate on board can change. Don't forget entertainment like books or gadgets to keep you entertained during your trip. This is important if you are traveling with children. Additionally, consider the snacks and drinks you can enjoy during the trip, as onboard dining options can vary and drinks are quite often quite expensive.