Zero-emission maritime route to connect Tangier and Tarifa by 2027

A new electric maritime route will link Tangier, Morocco, and Tarifa, Spain, by 2027, providing a sustainable, zero-emission crossing between Europe and Africa. The initiative, led by Spanish maritime company Baleària, was unveiled during a ceremony in Tangier on Tuesday, attended by high-ranking officials from Morocco and Spain.

A green corridor between two continents

The project aims to establish a "green corridor" across the Strait of Gibraltar, revolutionizing travel and trade between the two shores. Two zero-emission fast ferries, currently under construction in Spain, will operate the route. The vessels will rely entirely on electric propulsion, eliminating CO2 emissions, noise, and vibrations.

Morocco’s Minister of Transport and Logistics, Abdessamad Kayouh, highlighted the initiative as part of a broader strategy to enhance sustainable maritime mobility. He emphasized its importance during Operation Marhaba, an annual effort to facilitate travel for Moroccans living abroad.

Technical innovation and sustainability

Each ferry will generate 16 MW of electric power through four propellers powered by batteries with a capacity of 11,500 kWh. These vessels will complete the crossing between Tangier and Tarifa entirely on electric power, meeting 2050 decarbonization targets over two decades ahead of schedule.

To ensure uninterrupted operations, the ferries will be equipped with diesel backup generators for emergencies. Charging infrastructure will be installed at both ports, with battery recharging completed during one-hour stopovers. Autonomous robotic arms will recharge the vessels' batteries in just 40 minutes, supported by storage systems with 8 MWh batteries and land-based electricity supplies of 5 MW in Tarifa and 8 MW in Tangier.

Cutting-edge vessel design

The twin ferries, named "España 2030" and "Marruecos 2030," will measure 25 meters wide and accommodate up to 804 passengers and 225 vehicles. They will operate at a maximum speed of 26 knots, offering enhanced passenger comfort with spacious, well-lit interiors, advanced stabilization systems, and amenities designed for an enjoyable journey.

Additional features include high maneuverability through deck fins, two bow thrusters, and four rudders. The ships will also have high-capacity ramps at the stern for faster loading and unloading of passengers and vehicles.

Strengthening Morocco’s maritime fleet

Kayouh noted that Morocco is mobilizing 29 vessels with a weekly capacity of 500,000 passengers and 130,000 vehicles across four Moroccan and twelve European ports. This initiative aligns with national efforts to enhance maritime connectivity and meet the growing demand for efficient and sustainable travel.

Baleària Director General Georges Bassoul emphasized that the project represents a leap forward in maritime innovation, paving the way for a fully decarbonized future. “These ships will not only eliminate emissions but also reduce noise and vibrations, ensuring a comfortable and environmentally friendly journey,” he stated.

As Morocco and Spain deepen their cooperation, the Tangier-Tarifa route promises to set a global standard for sustainable maritime transport.