Ferry from Spain to Tangier
Tickets, prices & schedulesYou can travel by ferry to Tangier from Spain all year round, with up to 40 daily crossings. Ferries depart from Algeciras, Tarifa, Barcelona, and Gibraltar, arriving at the ports of Tanger Med and Tanger Ville. The fastest ferry route takes just 1 hr, while ticket prices start at around €34.
Africa Morocco Link, Baleària, FRS Iberia, Naviera Armas and Grandi Navi Veloci operate the Spain - Tangier ferry routes with high-speed catamarans and conventional ferries. Compare schedules, companies and prices, and book your ferry tickets on Ferryhopper with no hidden fees.
Discounts
When traveling from Spain to Tangier, you can benefit from a range of discounts offered to certain passenger categories. Keep in mind that available offers may vary depending on the ferry company and route, but reduced fares are typically available for:
- Children (up to 12-13 years old)
- Young travelers (under 26)
- Seniors (60+)
- Large families (Spanish citizens)
Note: infants and toddlers up to 2-3 years old can usually travel free of charge.
Spain to Tangier ferry routes
From ports in Spain and Gibraltar, you can travel by ferry to 2 ports in Tangier, Morocco:
- Algeciras - Tanger Med: around 40 daily crossings, with a journey time of around 1.5 hr and ticket prices starting from about €30.
- Barcelona - Tanger Med: typically 1-4 weekly departures, with the trip lasting approximately 28 to 35 hr and tickets from around €90.
- Gibraltar - Tanger Med: usually 2 monthly crossings, with a duration of about 1.5 hr and prices starting at €37.
- Tarifa - Tanger Ville: around 12 daily crossings, with the fastest ferries taking about 1 hr and ticket prices from €34.
Tanger Med or Tanger Ville: which port should you choose?
Tanger Ville is located right by the city center, making it the best option if you want to step off the ferry and start exploring Tangier straight away. It is only connected to Tarifa, making it ideal for quick trips and short getaways.
Tanger Med, on the other hand, is about 40 km of Tangier and serves as the main ferry hub, with connections to multiple ports across mainland Spain, such as Algeciras and Barcelona. It’s a better choice if you’re looking for more availability, routes, or traveling with a vehicle.
For more details, check out our guide on choosing between Tanger Med and Tanger Ville.
Ferry operators: prices & frequency
Algeciras - Tanger Med
| Ferry Company | Crossings | Duration | Price |
| Africa Morocco Link | 9 daily | 1 hr 30 min | from €34 |
| Baleària | 4 daily | 1 hr 30 min | from €34 |
| FRS Iberia | 8 daily | 1 hr 30 min | from €34 |
| Naviera Armas | 5 daily | 1 hr 30 min | from €34 |
Barcelona - Tanger Med
| Ferry Company | Crossings | Duration | Price |
| Grandi Navi Veloci | 1-4 weekly | 28-35 hr | from €90 |
Gibraltar - Tanger Med
| Ferry Company | Crossings | Duration | Price |
| FRS Iberia | 2 monthly | 1 hr 30 min | from €37 |
Tarifa - Tanger Ville
| Ferry Company | Crossings | Duration | Price |
| Africa Morocco Link | 8 daily | 1 hr | from €34 |
| Baleària | 5-6 daily | 1 hr | from €45 |
Note: keep in mind that the frequency of crossings may increase during the high season and decrease in the low season.
On-board services and amenities
Ferry routes from Spain to Tangier are operated by high-speed ferries for shorter crossings and conventional ferries for longer journeys, such as those departing from Barcelona. On board, you can expect a range of modern amenities designed for a comfortable trip.
On most ferries, available services typically include:
- Comfortable seating in air-conditioned lounges and access to outdoor decks
- Snack bars and cafes for light meals and drinks
- Facilities for passengers with disabilities
- Car decks for vehicle transport
- Pet-friendly areas or kennels
On longer routes, especially those operated by GNV from Barcelona, ferries are larger and offer additional amenities, such as:
- Restaurants with a wider selection of meals
- Shops for essentials and travel items
- Children’s play areas
- Cabins for overnight travel
Most ferries, including those operated by Baleària, GNV and Naviera Armas, also provide Wi-Fi access, so you can stay connected throughout your journey.
Are Spain - Tangier ferries accessible?
Ferries operating between Spain and Tangier are generally accessible to passengers with disabilities, offering facilities such as ramps and elevators, designated seating areas, and adapted restrooms. On conventional ferries, you can also find accessible cabins for a more comfortable journey on longer routes.
Boarding assistance is usually available upon request, so it’s best to inform the ferry company in advance to ensure a smooth experience.
Note: available facilities may vary depending on the vessel and operator, so we recommend checking directly with the ferry company before your trip.
Cabins and seating options
Accommodation on ferries from Spain to Tangier depends on the duration of the route. On short crossings, such as Algeciras - Tanger Med, Tarifa - Tangier Ville, or Gibraltar - Tanger Med, there are no cabins available, as the trip lasts around 1 to 1.5 hr. Standard deck or lounge seating is included in the ticket, with the option to upgrade to more comfortable seating on some ferries.
On longer routes, such as Barcelona - Tanger Med, ferries are designed for overnight travel and offer a wider range of accommodation options. In addition to standard seats, you can book a cabin for a more comfortable journey.
Cabin options typically include:
- Standard interior cabins
- Exterior cabins, with a window and sea view
- Deluxe suits, with a double bed and sea view
- Cabins accessible to travelers with disabilities
- Pet-friendly cabins
Are there VIP or business-class seats on the ferry to Tangier from Spain?
On ferries from Spain to Tangier, all seating is standard deck or lounge seating. There are no VIP or business-class areas available on these short crossings. Passengers can enjoy air-conditioned indoor lounges or outdoor deck seating with sea views included in the ticket price.
Tip: even though seats are standard, arriving early can help you secure a good spot on deck or in the lounge, especially during busy travel periods.
How much luggage can I bring on board?
Each ferry company serving the Spain to Tangier ferry routes has different luggage policies:
- Africa Morocco Link allows you 1 piece of luggage weighing up to 30 kg.
- With Baleària, there is usually no weight limit for your personal luggage, as long as you carry them on board by yourself.
- On FRS Iberia ferries, you are entitled to luggage weighing up to 50 kg.
- GNV usually has no weight limit on luggage and you can carry up to 2 pieces of luggage.
- With Naviera Armas you can bring up to 4 items of luggage weighing a maximum of 60 kg.
Traveling with pets on Spain - Tangier ferries
You can bring your pets on board most ferries from Spain to Tangier, but they must be added to your booking when purchasing your tickets. Rules vary depending on the route and the size of your pet.
- Tarifa - Tanger Ville: pets cannot access indoor passenger areas. Small pets may travel in a carrier or in onboard kennels. On Baleària ferries, pets up to 8 kg can use pet-friendly seats.
- Algeciras - Tanger Med: small pets must stay in a carrier, while larger pets need a muzzle and must be on a leash. Pets are not allowed in indoor seating areas.
- Gibraltar - Tanger Med: small pets (under 6 kg) may travel in a carrier in indoor areas or in kennels.
- Barcelona - Tanger Med: small pets travel in a carrier or cage. Larger pets must use dedicated onboard areas, wear a muzzle, and stay on a leash. Pets are not allowed in standard seating or regular cabins, except in designated pet cabins. External decks have dedicated areas for pets to move safely.
Tip: make sure to carry your pet's ID, European pet passport, health certificates, tickets, and any supplies you may need for the trip.
Useful tips for your ferry trip to Tangier from Spain
Here are some useful tips for your ferry trip from Spain to Tangier:
- Ports like Algeciras, Tarifa and Barcelona can get quite busy, especially in summer. We recommend arriving at least 45-60 min before departure, or up to 1.5-2 hr in advance if you're traveling with a vehicle or departing on a long route.
- As you will be crossing the international border between Spain and Morocco, make sure to carry a valid passport. Visa requirements may apply depending on your nationality.
- Keep in mind that Morocco may be 1 hr behind Spain, depending on the time of year and local time changes (including Ramadan). Always double-check the local arrival time on your ticket to avoid confusion.
- For more travel options, check out all available ferries to Tangier. In addition to Spain, you can also reach Tangier from ports in France (Sète and Marseille) and Italy (Genoa and Civitavecchia).
- The Strait of Gibraltar can sometimes be choppy, especially on windy days. If you're prone to seasickness, consider taking motion sickness medication before departure.
- If you're planning your return journey, take a look at the Tangier - Spain ferry routes to stay up to date with schedules, connections and travel options.
- For more flexibility when planning your trip, check all available Spain - Morocco ferry routes on Ferryhopper.
Where to take the ferry from Spain to Tangier
Ferries to Tangier depart from several ports in southern and northeastern Spain, as well as Gibraltar. The main departure points are Algeciras, Tarifa, Barcelona and Gibraltar.
Getting to the port of Algeciras
The port of Algeciras is one of the busiest ferry hubs in southern Spain and offers frequent crossings to Tanger Med. It is located close to the city center and within 10-15 min on foot from the train and bus stations.
By car, the port is easily accessible via the A-7 highway, and there are parking facilities nearby. Taxis are also widely available.
Getting to the port of Tarifa
Ferries to Tangier Ville depart from the port of Tarifa, located just a few minutes from the town center. The terminal is easily accessible on foot, by car, or by taxi, making it a convenient option for short trips.
There are also nearby parking facilities and regular bus connections from other Andalusian cities like Cádiz and Seville.
Getting to the port of Barcelona
Ferries to Tanger Med depart from the Port of Barcelona, usually from Muelle de Sant Bertran. The port is close to the city center and well connected by public transport, including metro (Drassanes, Line L3) and several bus lines.
By car, you can reach the port via Ronda del Port or B-10. The airport is about 30 min away by taxi or public transport.
Getting to the port of Gibraltar
The ferry terminal in Gibraltar is located near the airport and about a 15-min walk from the town center. You can also reach it by taxi or public bus.
If arriving from Spain by car, you will need to cross the border via La Línea de la Concepción and follow the CA-34 or A-383 roads toward the port.
Where does the ferry arrive in Tangier?
Ferries from Spain arrive at 2 ports in Tangier, depending on the route: Tanger Med and Tanger Ville.
Tanger Med port: location and connections
Tanger Med is a large, modern port located about 40 km east of Tangier city. It serves most ferry routes from Spain, including those from Algeciras, Barcelona and Gibraltar.
Transport options from Tanger Med
- By car or taxi: around 45-60 min to Tangier city via the A4 highway
- By train: about 1 hr to Tangier city, with a shuttle connecting the port to the station
- By bus: direct services are available, though travel times may be longer
Tanger Med is also well connected to other major destinations in Morocco, making it a convenient option if you're planning to travel beyond Tangier.
Tanger Ville port: location and connections
Tanger Ville port is located in the city center, close to the marina and the Medina. It is mainly served by ferries from Tarifa.
Getting around from Tanger Ville
- On foot: the city center and the Medina are within walking distance
- By taxi: quick and widely available throughout the city
- By train or bus: easy connections to other Moroccan cities such as Casablanca and Marrakech
How long is the ferry ride from Spain to Tangier?
Ferry travel time from Spain to Tangier varies depending on the route, type of vessel and operator. Crossing times can range from just 1 hr on the fastest routes from Tarifa to around 35 hr on longer journeys from Barcelona. Here are the average durations for each route:
- Algeciras - Tanger Med: around 1 hr 30 min
- Barcelona - Tanger Med: usually 28 hr to 35 hr
- Gibraltar - Tanger Med: about 1 hr 30 min
- Tarifa - Tanger Ville: approximately 1 hr
Spain - Tangier ferry companies
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FAQs
Yes, visiting Tangier from Spain in 1 day is not only possible but also very popular, especially thanks to the fast ferry connection between Tarifa and Tanger Ville. With a crossing time of just 1 hr and multiple daily departures, you can easily plan a same-day return trip.
To make the most of your visit, it’s best to take an early-morning ferry from Tarifa and return in the late afternoon or evening. This way, you can enjoy around 6 to 8 hr in Tangier. Keep in mind that you’ll be crossing an international border, so allow some extra time for passport control.
The Tarifa - Tanger Ville ferry is the best option for a day trip, as Tanger Ville port is located right in the city center, within walking distance of the Medina and main attractions. This means you can start exploring as soon as you step off the ferry, without needing additional transport.
What to do in Tangier in 1 day
With a few hours in the city, you can get a great taste of Tangier's atmosphere. A simple itinerary could include:
- A stroll through the Medina and its local markets
- Visiting the Kasbah and enjoying views over the Strait of Gibraltar
- A coffee or mint tea at a traditional café
- Lunch at a local restaurant to try Moroccan cuisine
- A walk along the marina or seafront promenade
For more ideas and detailed planning tips, check out our guide to a day trip from Spain to Morocco.
Yes, the ferry crossing from Spain to Tangier can be very scenic, especially on clear days. As you sail across the Strait of Gibraltar, you will enjoy views of both the Spanish and Moroccan coastlines, and even spot passing ships or dolphins along the way!
For the best experience, head to the outdoor decks early in the trip and keep your camera handy, particularly during sunrise or sunset crossings.
As you will be crossing an international border, you will need to present your passport during the journey. Your passport should be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date and issued within the last 10 years.
Depending on your nationality, you may also need a visa to enter Morocco. However, many travelers can enter visa-free for short stays:
- EU/EEA and Swiss citizens: no visa required for stays of up to 90 days
- Citizens of visa-exempt countries (such as the United States, Canada, and the UK): no visa required for short stays (up to 90 days)
- Other nationalities: may need to apply for a visa in advance, depending on Moroccan entry requirements
On most Spain - Tangier ferry routes, passport control is carried out on board, where Moroccan authorities check and stamp your documents before arrival. Once you arrive at Tanger Med or Tanger Ville, there may be a quick follow-up check before exiting the port.
Tip: always double-check entry requirements with the relevant authorities before traveling, as visa rules and border procedures may change.
Yes, most ferries operating from Spain to Tangier are equipped with car decks, allowing you to travel with your vehicle. The cost varies depending on the route, vehicle type and ferry company. Here are the indicative starting prices per route:
- Algeciras - Tanger Med: from €162 for a car, €50 for a motorbike and €199 for a camper van
- Barcelona - Tanger Med: from €152 for a car, €72 for a motorbike and €357 for a camper van
- Gibraltar - Tanger Med: from €164 for a car, €63 for a motorbike and €214 for a camper van
- Tarifa - Tanger Ville: from €184 for a car, €46 for a motorbike and €259 for a camper van
Good to know: space on car decks is limited, so it’s a good idea to book your vehicle ticket in advance, especially during peak travel periods.
Yes, high-speed ferries operate on the shortest routes between Spain and Tangier, while conventional ferries are typically used for longer crossings.
The fastest option is the Tarifa - Tangier Ville route, with a crossing time of around 1 hr. Other short routes, such as Algeciras - Tanger Med and Gibraltar - Tanger Med, usually take about 1.5 hr.
Long-distance routes, like Barcelona - Tanger Med, are operated by larger conventional ferries with cabins and more services, offering plenty of amenities to keep you comfortable and entertained throughout the journey.
The distance between Spain and Tangier depends on your ports of departure and arrival:
- Algeciras - Tanger Med: around 16 nautical miles (30 km)
- Barcelona - Tanger Med: about 572 nautical miles (1060 km)
- Gibraltar - Tanger Med: approximately 27 nautical miles (about 50 km)
- Tarifa - Tanger Ville: around 17 nautical miles (31 km)
When booking your Spain - Tangier ferry trip on Ferryhopper, you can easily check in online, get your tickets on your phone, and board the ferry directly with your e-ticket without collecting any paper tickets at the port.
Find detailed answers to all your questions about ferry ticket changes, cancellations and refunds.
Remember that you can also use Ferryhopper's online booking modification service, available with certain ferry companies.