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Moroccan shipping company Africa Morocco Link (AML) has announced a major expansion of its services for Operation Marhaba 2026. The operator plans to offer more than 2.5 million passenger seats between Morocco and Spain during the summer season, a period marked each year by the return of Moroccans living abroad (MRE).
The operation, which will run from June 5 to September 15, will cover AML routes linking the Spanish ports of Algeciras, Tarifa and Almería with the Moroccan ports of Tanger Med, Tangier City and Nador.
To cope with the expected surge in traffic, the company will deploy seven vessels and schedule more than 40 daily crossings during peak periods. AML says it has also increased its capacity to accommodate passengers and vehicles while strengthening its operational teams to ensure smoother journeys.
The operator further highlighted ongoing coordination with port authorities and security services on both sides of the Strait of Gibraltar to help ensure the operation runs smoothly.
Up to 500,000 passengers expected on the Nador-Almería route
One of the main additions for summer 2026 is the launch of a new maritime link between Nador and Almería. With this route, AML is continuing its expansion across key Morocco-Spain connections, aiming to meet growing demand from travelers, particularly MRE from the northeastern regions of the kingdom.
The company estimates that traffic on the route could reach up to 500,000 passengers and 120,000 vehicles during the summer season across all operators.
After nearly a decade without a Moroccan carrier operating the Nador-Almería route, AML is positioning itself as a Moroccan alternative, offering frequent crossings, enhanced comfort and services tailored to the needs of the Moroccan diaspora.
Stena Europe deployed for the peak travel season
The new route will be served by the Stena Europe, described as the largest vessel in AML’s fleet. The ferry can accommodate around 1,500 passengers and nearly 400 vehicles per crossing.
Designed for long-distance and family travel, the vessel features double and quadruple cabins, dining areas, an AML+ Lounge, a children's playroom and family-friendly communal spaces.
AML says it aims to transform the crossing into a genuine travel experience through a range of services designed around the needs of passengers who regularly travel between Europe and Morocco.
Services tailored to MRE travel habits
The company also emphasized that the Nador-Almería schedule was designed with MRE travel patterns in mind. Night departures from Almería will allow travelers arriving from various European countries to continue their journey more comfortably, while overnight sailings from Nador are intended to facilitate return trips to Europe.
AML is also highlighting its identity as a Moroccan carrier. Its onboard hospitality staff will be exclusively Moroccan, while services will be available in Arabic, French, Spanish, English and Riffian. The catering offer will include halal dishes inspired by the preferences and eating habits of Moroccan travelers.
Finally, AML says it remains committed to an affordable pricing policy, with return tickets for foot passengers starting at €154 on the AML Ferry website, subject to availability and travel dates.
