The port of Marseille, located in Provence, is the most important in France and one of the largest in the Mediterranean. For centuries, it has served as a natural bridge between Europe and North Africa: every year, thousands of passengers and vehicles pass through it on ferries departing from Marseille or arriving in France.
Traveling by sea to or from North Africa is a practical and attractive option: it allows you to board cars, RVs or commercial vehicles, transport goods, animals and experience the crossing in comfort.
How to get to the port of Marseille
The Grand Port Maritime de Marseille is located in the easily accessible La Joliette area:
- By car: direct highway connections (A7 from the north, A55 from the west, A50 from the east).
- By train: Saint-Charles Central Station is just a few minutes away by cab or subway.
- By plane: the Marseille-Provence airport (about 25 km away) is connected by shuttle buses and cabs.
Within the port are passenger terminals equipped with waiting rooms, catering, secure parking, and support services.
Port of Marseille: ferry routes to and from North Africa
Ferries Morocco
- Tanger Med: connection operated by La Méridionale, with the modern ferry Massalia. The crossing takes about 44 hours and 30 minutes.
- Nador: service active mainly in the summer months, linked to “Marhaba” operations, which are also crucial for the return of Moroccan communities to France.
Routes:Marseille ↔ Tangier | Marseille ↔ Nador
Tunisia links
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Tunis (La Goulette): served year-round by Corsica Linea and CTN Ferries, with 2-3 weekly departures and crossings of 20-26 hours. This route is among the busiest both departing from Marseille and arriving from Tunisia, used by families, workers, and tourists.
Route: Marseille ↔ Tunis
Ferries to and from Algeria
Algeria has the most connections to and from Marseille:
- Algiers – about 22 hours of sailing.
- Oran – Regular connection, about 23 hours.
- Béjaïa – duration 20-22 hours.
- Skikda – available at certain times of the year.
The routes are operated by Corsica Linea and Algérie Ferries, with modern ships such as the Badji Mokhtar III.
Routes: Marseille ↔ Algiers | Marseille ↔ Béjaïa
Active shipping companies
- Corsica Linea – routes to Algeria and Tunisia.
- Algérie Ferries – Algerian flag carrier.
- CTN Ferries – regular connections to Tunisia.
- La Méridionale – main operator to Morocco.
Travel advice
- Book in advance: high demand in summer and during holidays.
- Duration: between 20 and 45 hours. Cabins recommended for long trips.
- Luggage and vehicles: great advantage over airplane.
- Check-in: report to port at least 2-3 hours before departure, 3-4 hours with heavy vehicles.
Boarding of trucks, commercial vehicles and motorhomes on ferries between Marseille and North Africa
Marseille is a key hub for sea transport, both outbound and inbound from North Africa.
- Trucks and commercial vehicles: routes serve the constant flow of goods between France and the Maghreb, with terminals dedicated to freight traffic.
- Motorhomes and caravans: perfect for those who want to plan an on-the-road trip. Ship garages accommodate large vehicles, with advance reservations.
- Tip: For trucks and RVs, it is best to arrive at the port well in advance and communicate the measurements of the vehicle when booking.
Transport of pets and livestock France – Africa
The port of Marseille is a strategic point for transport in both directions-both for those bringing animals from North Africa to France and for those leaving France for Algeria, Tunisia, or Morocco.
- Pets: dogs and cats are allowed on major routes, with dedicated spaces (onboard kennels) or pet-friendly cabin options depending on the company. Mandatory health booklet, up-to-date vaccinations and microchip.
- Livestock: the port also handles the embarkation and disembarkation of live animals, complying with EU animal welfare regulations. Equipped ships ensure safety during the crossing.
- Tip: Always check with the company about the required documents (health certificates, export/import permits), as they vary between countries and operators.
Book ferries leaving and arriving at the port of Marseille
The port of Marseille is the gateway in and out between Europe and North Africa. Whether it is a sightseeing trip, commercial transport, moving with motorhomes or with animals, the sea connections guarantee reliability, freedom of movement, and the opportunity to experience the crossing as part of the experience.
Discover schedules, prices, and availability at Ferryfinder.com and book your ferry to and from Marseilles in just a few clicks.
