There are two Spanish ports (Tarifa, Algeciras) and two Moroccan ports (Tanger Ville, Tanger Med). For most travellers, Tarifa → Tanger Ville is the only crossing worth taking.
The fast one — Tarifa to Tangier Ville
1 hour, foot passengers only. Lands directly in central Tangier — walk to your hotel in 10 minutes. Operated by FRS and Inter Shipping. €37–45 each way, 8–10 daily crossings. Best choice 95% of the time.
The cheap one — Algeciras to Tanger Med
1h30, takes cars and trucks. Lands at Tanger Med, the industrial port 40 km east of the city. You then need a 45-minute taxi (€40) or a 1-hour shuttle bus to the city. Only choose this if you're driving a car across.
Don't get caught out
"Tangier" can mean either port. Tanger Ville = city centre. Tanger Med = container port, far away. Always check which one your ticket is for before booking accommodation pickup.
Passport & customs
You get an exit stamp on board the ferry — queue at the police desk during the crossing to save time at the terminal. Bring your passport (not just an ID card, even for EU citizens).
Schedule & seasons
Year-round daily service. Sailings can be cancelled in winter due to the Levante wind — check the day before. Summer (July–August) gets very busy; book a few days ahead.
FAQ
- How long is the ferry from Tarifa to Tangier?
- Just 1 hour. The fast ferry to Tanger Ville (city centre) operates 8–10 times per day, year-round.
- How much is the ferry to Tangier?
- €37–45 one way for foot passengers Tarifa → Tanger Ville. Cars from €130 round-trip on the longer Algeciras → Tanger Med route.
- Tanger Ville or Tanger Med — which port?
- Tanger Ville for tourism (city centre, foot passengers, fast). Tanger Med only if you're crossing with a car or truck.