Go Back   Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB > Regional Forums > Morocco
Morocco Topics specific to Morocco, including Western Sahara west of the berm
Photo by Hendi Kaf, in Cambodia

I haven't been everywhere...
but it's on my list!


Photo by Hendi Kaf,
in Cambodia



Like Tree192Likes

Reply
 
LinkBack Thread Tools Display Modes
  #166  
Old 13 Mar 2021
Gold Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jan 2002
Location: Toronto, Canada
Posts: 2,134
Quote:
Originally Posted by TheWarden View Post
...It will likely be freight service and possibly no passengers...
I agree with The Warden's take on this one.

There could well be a market for a direct UK - Morocco ferry, but I think the market is freight (trucks), not people. Most likely 'unaccompanied' trucks, meaning just the trailer, no driver or traction engine.

It's not all that difficult to start up a truck-only ferry route. You just need to get hold of a ferry (perhaps on a wet-lease, whereby it comes with crew) and make arrangements for docking at each end.

To carry passengers, however, introduces an order of magnitude more complications... cabins, housekeepers, food service, health control, advertising, web bookings, agency commissions, onboard security, and on and on and on.

There just might be enough trade between the UK and Morocco to justify a weekly truck-only ferry. The economics of it to the shippers would be quite attractive if they no longer need to pay UK wages to a driver to schlep a truck down to Morocco - just drop the trailer at the UK port, and then a Moroccan driver picks it up at the Moroccan port.

Michael
Reply With Quote
  #167  
Old 13 Mar 2021
Tim Cullis's Avatar
Super Moderator
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: London and Granada Altiplano
Posts: 3,122
You only have to look at the fresh fruit and veg on the supermarket shelves to realise how much comes from Morocco—strawberries and raspberries, mange tout and green beans, olives and oils. My Moroccan brother-in-law had never seen a mushroom in Morocco when he came to the UK 30 years ago, now he eats mushrooms grown in Morocco.
__________________
"For sheer delight there is nothing like altitude; it gives one the thrill of adventure
and enlarges the world in which you live,"
Irving Mather (1892-1966)
Reply With Quote
  #168  
Old 13 Mar 2021
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: Somewhere
Posts: 1,483
Yes we have a lot of Moroccan produce on the shelves in the UK,

But there isn't a lot of UK hauliers transporting it. Most of the HGV's crossing to Spain are Spanish, French or Moroccan registered.

It will be interesting to see if it takes off or not. If it does it would be a 3 day journey at least, compared with the current 2 days of the Ferry - Drive - Ferry route
Reply With Quote
  #169  
Old 8 Jun 2021
Contributing Vendor
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: Northumberland, UK
Posts: 557
Still no ferries from Spain.

Continuing tension with repoorts stating there will be no Spain-Morocco ferries this summer for Operation Marhaba.

This from Morocco World News: https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/202...-spanish-ports

And from El Pais (in Spanish): https://elpais.com/espana/2021-06-06...Q1nMpcHb7_5nRg

Translation:

Morocco frustrates Operation Crossing the Strait by allowing only ships from France and Italy
Rabat, which will resume air connections from June 15, justifies the measure to avoid a rebound in the covid

Operation Paso del Estrecho (OPE) will not run this year through Algeciras, where the largest flow of travelers is registered, nor through any of the other Spanish ports, such as Valencia, Alicante and Almería. As happened last summer, the Moroccan government has adopted preventive health measures and Morocco can only be reached by sea through the French port of Sète and Genoa, in Italy. However, the air connections, which were suspended since March, will be opened progressively from next Tuesday, June 15, according to the Moroccan Foreign Ministry this Sunday afternoon through a statement.


The Foreign Ministry has made no mention of the borders with Ceuta and Melilla, which have remained closed since March 2020 due to the pandemic.

Operation Crossing the Strait, known in Morocco as Marhaba, was conceived in 1987. It usually begins in mid-June and ends in September, although it requires several months of prior coordination between various countries. In its latest editions, the operation regulated the passage from Europe to Morocco of three million passengers each summer and almost 800,000 vehicles

This year, Moroccans living abroad who embark in Sète or Genoa will have to undergo a PCR test prior to boarding and, once on board, they will undergo another test.

Morocco has arranged two groups of countries to control the flow of travelers by plane. In a first list, called A, are those that have good indicators regarding the control of the pandemic. This is where Spain and the rest of the European Union are located for the moment. Travelers from these countries must present a vaccination certificate or a negative PCR test.

In list B are countries that do not have "accurate statistics" on the development of the pandemic or are experiencing a severe spread of the latest variants of the virus. Travelers coming from these countries must have an “exceptional authorization” before embarking on the trip, they will have to present a PCR test carried out 48 hours before boarding and once they land in Morocco they will have to keep a 10-day quarantine.

Morocco took very drastic preventive measures from the beginning of the pandemic. But the evolution of the health crisis in this country of 36 million inhabitants has been very favorable in recent months and the Government has decided to relax the restrictions. Vaccinated people now number 9.1 million, of which 5.8 million have already received the second dose.

Last year there was great expectation about whether Morocco would cancel this operation. The Foreign Minister, Naser Burita, only cleared up the doubt on June 22, when there was barely a week left to begin. On that occasion, he said: “Operation Marhaba is a concept that needs to be prepared for since April and that requires coordination with several countries. It is not a simple passage, but an animation with cultural activities and fun. It is obvious and natural that the Marhaba operation, as we know it, with its preparation and programming, will not take place ”.

In Spain, the director of the Center for the Coordination of Health Alerts and Emergencies (CCAES), Fernando Simón, described last year the decision taken by Morocco as "very prudent". The president of the Junta de Andalucía, the popular Juan Manuel Moreno Bonilla, also welcomed the “prudence” of Rabat.
__________________
Atlas Overland - Specialist adventure tour company providing off-road holidays for 4x4 enthusiasts in Europe and North Africa.
Tours to Morocco, Iceland, Arctic Circle, Portugal, Alps, Pyrenees, Eastern Europe, Corsica, and UK weekend tours.

Last edited by Peter Girling; 8 Jun 2021 at 10:39. Reason: Translation added
Reply With Quote
  #170  
Old 8 Jun 2021
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: Somewhere
Posts: 1,483
Ignoring the increasing diplomatic tensions between Spain and Morocco, one reason given for excluding Spain is to limit the number of arrivals so Morocco can manage the influx safely.

The Spanish ports and port workers unions aren't happy, stating huge revenue and job losses if traffic can't resume.

A quick look at ferries from Sete yesterday showed most sailings in September are full already unless you travel without a vehicle. With the expected huge number of campervans etc looking to travel this autumn I doubt the France/Italy routes will be able to cater for the demand.

Now the UK has left the EU more long term travellers are looking to Morocco to get round the 90 EU visa issues post Brexit
Reply With Quote
  #171  
Old 9 Jun 2021
Gold Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jan 2002
Location: Toronto, Canada
Posts: 2,134
Quote:
Originally Posted by TheWarden View Post
Ignoring the increasing diplomatic tensions between Spain and Morocco, one reason given for excluding Spain is to limit the number of arrivals so Morocco can manage the influx safely.
That's a very reasonable thought.

My guess - this is purely speculation on my part - is that sometime later this summer, perhaps mid-July or August, ferries from Spain will resume normal operations. I say this because I think there will be a pushback from both the Moroccan diaspora in Europe (who object to the higher prices and limited availability of ferries) and Moroccan families in country (who object to lost business, and inability to re-unite with family from abroad).

Just a guess... but it will be politically difficult for the Moroccan government to keep the Spanish ferry restrictions in place if COVID remains under control in Morocco.

Here in Canada, we're already seeing a lot of pushback against the border closure between Canada and the USA, with public opinion strongly in favour of allowing fully vaccinated travelers to cross the border without restrictions. I think public opinion in Morocco will be similar.

Michael
Reply With Quote
  #172  
Old 9 Jun 2021
Tim Cullis's Avatar
Super Moderator
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: London and Granada Altiplano
Posts: 3,122
Quote:
Originally Posted by PanEuropean View Post
... sometime later this summer, perhaps mid-July or August, ferries from Spain will resume normal operations...
There's nothing wrong with a bit of optimism and seeing as my 690 Enduro is parked in southern Spain I also want the ferries to resume, however there are strong counter feelings in Morocco about

(1) the failure of Spain to backup the USA acknowledgement of Morocco's claim to what was formerly Spanish Sahara,

(2) the historic claims to Ceuta and Melilla, the borders of which with Morocco have been closed for more than a year, and

(3) most importantly, the argument over Spain allowing the Polisario leader to be spirited into the country under false name to receive medical treatment despite claims of his war crimes.

I can't see how this will play out other than a continued face-off.
__________________
"For sheer delight there is nothing like altitude; it gives one the thrill of adventure
and enlarges the world in which you live,"
Irving Mather (1892-1966)
Reply With Quote
  #173  
Old 9 Jun 2021
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: Somewhere
Posts: 1,483
The lunacy is freight still continues between Spain and Morocco on the ferries and has done since the border closed in 2020. If the political issue was serious enough you'd think they'd shut the routes completely.

If the reports in the Spanish press that the maritime traffic is worth over a billion euros in business to the Spanish ports, then the Moroccan side has to be worth similar levels of revenue.

Which ever way you look at it the limited number of GNV sailings from Sete and Genoa is not going to be enough to move the expected number of people and vehicles this summer. At the moment La Meridiniale haven't been authorised to run ferry services again, but I expect that will change soon. Even so space is going to be scarce and prices high.

That will end up putting a lot of pressure on both sides to move things forward
Reply With Quote
  #174  
Old 14 Jun 2021
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: May 2021
Location: Edinburgh
Posts: 18
Foreign Office Update

You guys see the latest update from the UK Foreign Office?

"Updated: 13 June 2021

Latest update: From 15 June, direct flights between the UK and Morocco resume; you will need to provide proof that you have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, with the second dose administered at least two weeks prior to travel, or a negative PCR test result before boarding your flight or ferry to Morocco (Summary and Coronavirus)..."

Shame it's so hot now

https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-ad..._content=daily
Reply With Quote
  #175  
Old 14 Jun 2021
Chris Scott's Avatar
Super Moderator
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jun 2000
Posts: 4,926
See the discussion above, Shugs.
No improvement with Gib Strait ferries, and even for fly-ins and rentals, for the UK you still have the Amber hoops to jump through when you come back.
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/red-ambe...and#amber-list

Plus, as you say, darn hot right now.
Hopefully by the cool season access will ease.
Reply With Quote
  #176  
Old 15 Jun 2021
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: Somewhere
Posts: 1,483
Additional ferries for the Sete, Marseilles and Genoa routes have been arranged until the 15th September along with orders from the King that ferry and flight prices are kept reasonable for MRE's.

Even with the extra sailings the capacity is a long way short of whats needed to meet demand if they expect similar numbers to 2019. Might put added pressure on the Spanish routes, but diplomatic tensions haven't eased.

There are also discussions underway to open a new route from Portugal to Morocco. This would be better news for those who don't fancy 40 hrs on a GNV barge
Reply With Quote
  #177  
Old 16 Jun 2021
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: Somewhere
Posts: 1,483
More info on the Portugal route

https://infoferrymaroc.blogspot.com/...e8aHzOxeNdsLHA

Please note this site is not very reliable for information, at lot published is speculation and guesswork
Reply With Quote
  #178  
Old 16 Jun 2021
Contributing Vendor
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: Northumberland, UK
Posts: 557
3 hour crossing time? I hope it's the old gas turbine NGV we used from Marseille to Corsica - 45 knots flat out! I'd pay €450 for that ride.
__________________
Atlas Overland - Specialist adventure tour company providing off-road holidays for 4x4 enthusiasts in Europe and North Africa.
Tours to Morocco, Iceland, Arctic Circle, Portugal, Alps, Pyrenees, Eastern Europe, Corsica, and UK weekend tours.
Reply With Quote
  #179  
Old 16 Jun 2021
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: Somewhere
Posts: 1,483
I'm a bit suspicious on that time, its about 300km I think. Still better than 40 hours from Sete
Reply With Quote
  #180  
Old 16 Jun 2021
Chris Scott's Avatar
Super Moderator
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jun 2000
Posts: 4,926
[moved ferry chat to Ferry Thread]

I think Portimao sounds like a promising solution.
Looks about as far as Alicante - Oran which is an overnighter.
That would suit me fine.
Reply With Quote
Reply

Tags
bikes, customs, tangier med


Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
 
Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On


Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Norway to Morocco, Spain, Portugal and Eastern Europe Hkon89 Route Planning 6 17 Sep 2019 20:34
Ferries from Spain to Morocco Mongolian Explorer Morocco 28 2 Sep 2017 19:59
Suggestions please for a week in Morocco... MarchHare Morocco 13 13 Aug 2017 21:43
Morocco Via Ferry to Tangier Med schmidtle Morocco 3 19 Apr 2016 20:16
UK - Morocco adventure tour anyone? Flyboy1 Travellers Seeking Travellers 9 19 Aug 2014 13:48

 
 

Announcements

Thinking about traveling? Not sure about the whole thing? Watch the HU Achievable Dream Video Trailers and then get ALL the information you need to get inspired and learn how to travel anywhere in the world!

Have YOU ever wondered who has ridden around the world? We did too - and now here's the list of Circumnavigators!
Check it out now
, and add your information if we didn't find you.

Next HU Eventscalendar

ALL Dates subject to change.

2025 Confirmed Events:

  • Virginia: April 24-27 2025
  • Queensland is back! May 2-4 2025
  • Germany Summer: May 29-June 1 2025
  • CanWest: July 10-13 2025
  • Switzerland: Date TBC
  • Ecuador: Date TBC
  • Romania: Date TBC
  • Austria: Sept. 11-14
  • California: September 18-21
  • France: September 19-21 2025
  • Germany Autumn: Oct 30-Nov 2 2025

Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!

Questions about an event? Ask here

See all event details

 
World's most listened to Adventure Motorbike Show!
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...

Adventurous Bikers – We've got all your Hygiene & Protection needs SORTED! Powdered Hair & Body Wash, Moisturising Cream Insect Repellent, and Moisturising Cream Sunscreen SPF50. ESSENTIAL | CONVENIENT | FUNCTIONAL.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)



Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance.

Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.

Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.

Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!


 

What others say about HU...

"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia

"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK

"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia

"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA

"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada

"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa

"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia

"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany

Lots more comments here!



Five books by Graham Field!

Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook

"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.



Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!

New to Horizons Unlimited?

New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!

Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.

Susan and Grant Johnson Read more about Grant & Susan's story

Membership - help keep us going!

Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.

You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.




All times are GMT +1. The time now is 15:24.