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«For Moroccans around the world, Africa Morocco Link (AML) is much more than just a crossing, it's the first step toward their homeland. The moment they board our ships, they’re already in Morocco, welcomed with the warmth and hospitality our country is known for», proudly states Rachid Houari, General Director of the Moroccan maritime company.
As part of the Marhaba 2025 operation, AML aims to reinforce this promise of hospitality by expanding its services to accommodate the massive wave of travel between Spain and Morocco. The company is planning 9,000 crossings, up from 8,000 in 2024, marking a 12.5% increase. In total, it expects to transport 1.2 million passengers, 250,000 vehicles, and 140,000 freight units across its two main routes:
- Tanger Med – Algeciras (approx. 1h30 crossing time)
- Tanger Ville – Tarifa (approx. 50-minute crossing)
With an average of 28 daily departures and up to 36 during peak periods in late July and August, AML will cover nearly 30% of the total transport capacity across the Strait of Gibraltar.
©DR
A Reinforced Fleet for the Summer
To handle this summer’s expected traffic, AML will mobilize a fleet of seven ships, including:
Four mixed car-ferries (for passengers, vehicles, and trucks):
- Stena Europe: 1,250 passengers, 300 vehicles, 62 trucks
- Morocco Sun: 1,000 passengers, 200 cars, 40 trucks
- AF Claudia: 900 passengers, 250 vehicles, 70 trucks
- Morocco Star: 930 passengers, 200 vehicles, 45 trucks
Two fast ferries (for passengers and cars only), serving the Tanger Ville–Tarifa route:
- Morocco Express 1: 640 passengers, 50 vehicles
- Maria Dolores: 600 passengers, 50 vehicles
One freight ship:
- Kaunas, dedicated to semi-trailers and operating in partnership with other companies (AML will handle two-thirds of the rotations).
All ships will offer halal catering services. According to Commercial Director Abdelaali Essamghouni, efforts have been made to maintain high standards of comfort while preserving a distinctly Moroccan atmosphere on board.
©Ph Yabiladi©Ph Yabiladi
Human and Logistical Mobilization
To meet customer expectations, AML will deploy nearly 500 staff throughout the Marhaba operation: reception agents, information officers, and boarding/disembarkation assistance teams. A dedicated after-sales support line will also be available for the duration of the summer season.
Marhaba 2025 : AML mobilise 7 navires et assure 28 départs quotidiens pour faciliter le retour des MRE cet été. 9 000 traversées sont prévues sur l’année. ??? #Marhaba2025 #AML #MRE #Tanger #Maroc https://t.co/JjmfhDdvzF pic.twitter.com/W0BThDU3vk
— Yabiladi.com (@yabiladi_fr) July 1, 2025
During a press briefing, Abdelaali Essamghouni emphasized a «rigorous» reorganization focused on three priorities: safety, punctuality, and quality of service.
«We have overhauled our entire system to ensure a smooth experience for our passengers. This includes tailored pricing, optimized boarding, and onboard services that meet top international standards», he noted.
AML, a Strategic National Player
Africa Morocco Link, which is 57% owned by the Compagnie de Transport au Maroc (CTM) and 43% by Swedish group Stena Line, remains the only national maritime company currently operating on the Strait of Gibraltar. With this summer deployment, AML aims to further strengthen its strategic position in the region.
