Green corridor between Spain and Morocco: Electric ferries to connect Tarifa and Tangier

Tuesday 18 February 2025 - 11:05

The first green corridor linking Spain and Morocco will be serviced by two fully electric, zero-emission fast ferries operated by Baleària. These twin vessels will connect the ports of Tarifa and Tangier using 100% electric energy. “This pioneering public-private initiative, driven by cutting-edge technology, will allow us to complete the entire route using only electric power, resulting in zero emissions,” stated Adolfo Utor, president of Baleària.

In December, Baleària secured a 15-year concession from the Port Authority of the Bay of Algeciras (APBA) to manage the Tarifa–Tangier Ville route. APBA prioritized technical and environmental criteria in awarding this intercontinental green corridor. “The Port Authority has laid the groundwork for this project, aligning with our values of innovation and sustainability. We are committed to making the Tarifa–Tangier Ville route a global benchmark for sustainable mobility,” Utor added.

Utor emphasized the collaborative nature of this project, which brings together Spanish maritime, shipbuilding, and financial companies, along with leading engineering and energy firms such as Cotenaval, Endesa, Amendis, and Incat Crowther.

Describing the corridor as a “green lifeline” between two historically, culturally, and economically connected nations, Utor also expressed Baleària’s ambition to make the route a hub for talent, economic development, and local job creation.

The new ferries will share design features with Baleària’s natural gas-powered vessels, Eleanor Roosevelt and Margarita Salas, but will be optimized for the ports of Tarifa and Tangier Ville. They will measure 25 meters wide, accommodate 804 passengers and 225 vehicles, and reach speeds of up to 26 knots. The vessels will offer spacious, well-lit interiors and enhanced passenger comfort with a T-Foil system to reduce vertical motion.

These catamarans will feature advanced maneuverability systems, including deck fins, dual bow thrusters, and four rudders. Additionally, they will have dual high-capacity stern ramps to streamline port operations.

Baleària remains committed to eco-efficient and smart fleet strategies, focusing on future energy projects to achieve zero emissions by 2050. The company already operates 11 gas-powered vessels and leads in electric propulsion. Since 2023, Baleària has introduced the Cap de Barbaria, Spain's first fully electric passenger and cargo ferry, and the Rusadir, a cruise ferry powered by gas engines with electric propulsion capabilities.

Spanish Secretary of State for Transport and Sustainable Mobility, José Antonio Santano, praised Baleària’s commitment to innovation and fleet decarbonization, aligning with the ministry’s priority of sustainable transport.

Moroccan Ambassador to Spain, Karima Benyaich, commended Baleària’s investment in Morocco, describing the initiative as a forward-thinking, sustainable project that will strengthen ties between Morocco and Spain while supporting their joint bid for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

Arturo Bernal, Tourism and External Action Counselor of the Junta de Andalucía, highlighted the region's leadership in sustainability. With an expected four million passengers, Bernal applauded Baleària and APBA’s efforts toward sustainable tourism and mobility.

Gerardo Landaluce, President of the Port Authority of the Bay of Algeciras, emphasized their €62 million investment in Onshore Power Supply (OPS) projects at Tarifa and Algeciras, reinforcing their commitment to innovation and environmental protection.