Quick answer: The fastest way to cross from Spain to Morocco is the Tarifa – Tangier Ville ferry (about 1 hour), which arrives right in Tangier’s city centre. Algeciras – Tanger Med (about 1.5 hours) has more departures and suits cars and trucks, but the port is about 45 km from Tangier. Book online in summer and at Easter.
Crossing the Strait of Gibraltar by boat is one of the most exciting ways to start a Morocco trip – and very popular with travellers from Spain and Europe. Here is everything about the ferry from Spain to Tangier.
Main ferry routes
| Route | Crossing | Arrives at | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tarifa – Tangier Ville | ~1 h | Tangier city centre | Foot passengers, fast city access |
| Algeciras – Tanger Med | ~1.5 h | Tanger Med (≈45 km from Tangier) | Cars, more departures |
| Algeciras – Ceuta | ~1 h | Ceuta (Spain), then land border | Car travellers to Tetouan/Chefchaouen |
| Motril / Almería – Tanger Med / Nador | longer | North Morocco | Travellers from eastern Spain |
Passport and formalities
You need a valid passport. Passport control is often done on board – look for the police desk as soon as you board and get your entry stamp before arrival. Keep your passport with you, not in your car.
Travelling with a car
Bring your vehicle registration, green card insurance valid for Morocco (or buy insurance at the port) and your driving licence. In July and August, Tanger Med can be very busy with the summer crossing of Moroccans living in Europe; allow extra time.
What to do on arrival
From Tangier Ville port you can walk to the medina and the Kasbah. Many travellers begin a road trip here: Asilah, Chefchaouen, Fez and the Sahara. Our local driver can meet you directly at the port with one of these routes:
- 3-day Tangier, Chefchaouen and Asilah tour
- 4-day private tour from Tangier to Fez via Chefchaouen
- 9-day tour from Tangier to Marrakech
Tips
- Book tickets online in advance in high season (Easter, summer, bank holidays).
- The Strait can be windy; crossings are sometimes cancelled in storms.
- Change a little money at the port or withdraw in Tangier (money guide).
- Read our Chefchaouen guide and see all tours from Tangier.
Tours related to this guide
- Private 4-Day Tour – From Tangier to Fez via Chefchaouen and Volubilis
- 9-Day Cultural Circuit – From Tangier to Marrakech
- 3-Day Excursion: Tangier, Chefchaouen & Asilah
Want a trip built around your dates? Ask for a free tailor-made itinerary →
Frequently asked questions
How long is the ferry from Tarifa to Tangier?
About 1 hour. The Tarifa ferry arrives at Tangier Ville port, in the city centre.
Which is better, Tanger Med or Tangier Ville?
Tangier Ville is better for foot passengers because it is in the city centre. Tanger Med has more departures and suits cars, but is about 45 km from Tangier.
Do I need a visa to go from Spain to Morocco by ferry?
EU citizens and many other nationalities do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days, but a valid passport is required. Check current rules before travelling.
Can I take my car on the ferry to Morocco?
Yes. Bring your registration documents and insurance valid in Morocco; the Algeciras–Tanger Med route is the most common for vehicles.
Written by the Todo Marruecos Tours travel team, local tour operators based in Morocco. Last updated: September 2026.