Civitavecchia – Tangier Ferry: Book your Tickets with GNV

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Traveling by ferry from Civitavecchia to Tangier offers one of the most scenic and relaxing ferry crossing between Italy and Morocco. Departing from the historic port of Civitavecchia, located just 80 kilometers northwest of Rome, this Mediterranean crossing provides a unique alternative to air travel for those looking to bring their vehicle or simply enjoy a leisurely journey across the sea.

The Civitavecchia Tangier ferry crossing is operated exclusively by Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV), one of Italy’s leading ferry companies. Running seasonally during the summer months from June through August, this service connects Europe and North Africa with modern vessels equipped with comfortable cabins, restaurants, and entertainment facilities. Whether you’re planning a Moroccan holiday, embarking on an African road trip, or returning home, this 54 – 58 hour crossing aboard the GNV Fantastic transforms travel time into an enjoyable part of your journey.

With fares starting from just €156 per person, booking your ferry from Rome to Tangier has never been more accessible. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about schedules, ticket prices, onboard services, and practical travel tips to help you plan the perfect Mediterranean crossing.

Essential ferry information: Civitavecchia to Tangier Med

Before booking your tickets, here’s what you need to know about the ferry connection between Civitavecchia and Tangier Med. This route serves as a vital link for travelers seeking to cross from mainland Europe to North Africa by sea.

Feature

Details

Ferry Operator

Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV)

Operating Season

June to August (Summer only)

Weekly Frequency

1 sailing per week

Journey Duration

54-58 hours (approximately 2.5 days)

Vessel Name

GNV Fantastic

Distance

Approximately 1,100 nautical miles (2,043 km)

Starting Price

From €156 per passenger

Important note: The Civitavecchia to Tangier ferry may include a stopover in Barcelona, extending the total journey time. Always verify the exact itinerary when booking your ticket to ensure it meets your travel requirements.

Ferry schedules: Civitavecchia to Tangier Med

Planning your trip requires knowing the exact departure and arrival times. The ferry from Civitavecchia to Tangier operates on a limited summer schedule, making advance booking essential. Here’s everything you need to know about sailing times for both directions.

Civitavecchia to Tangier Med direction

Departures from Civitavecchia

  • Departure time: 1:00 PM (13:00)
  • Arrival at Tanger Med: Approximately 11:00 PM (23:00) two days later
  • Total crossing time: 54-58 hours depending on sea conditions

The ferry departs from Civitavecchia port in the early afternoon, allowing travelers from Rome to easily reach the terminal in time for boarding. With check-in closing 2-3 hours before departure, plan to arrive at the port by 10:00 AM at the latest.

Tangier Med to Civitavecchia direction

Return sailings from Tangier Med

  • Departure time: 11:59 PM (23:59)
  • Arrival at Civitavecchia: Approximately 58 hours later
  • Late-night departure requires arriving at Tangier Med port several hours early

The return journey from Morocco to Italy follows a similar pattern, with the ferry sailing through the night and arriving at Civitavecchia after a multi-day crossing. Passengers should book cabins for overnight comfort, as attempting to sleep in public seating areas for two nights is not recommended.

Ticket prices: How much does the Civitavecchia Tangier ferry cost?

Ferry ticket prices from Civitavecchia to Tangier vary based on passenger type, vehicle size, accommodation preferences, and booking timing. Understanding the fare structure helps you budget effectively and take advantage of early booking discounts.

Standard passenger fares

Ticket Type

Price Range

Foot Passenger (Deck Seat)

From €156

Passenger + Car

From €280-366

Passenger + Motorcycle

From €190

Passenger + Camper/RV

From €350-586

Cabin upgrades and accommodation options

Given the 54-58 hour journey time, booking a cabin is highly recommended for comfort and rest. The GNV ferry offers various accommodation types:

Accommodation Type

Additional Cost

Reclining Seat

Included in base fare

Inside Cabin (2-4 berths)

+€60-90 per person

Outside Cabin with Sea View

+€120-180 per person

Suite (subject to availability)

+€200+ per person

The prices listed are indicative only. For up-to-date information, please use our booking system at the top of the page to simulate a reservation and obtain the exact prices, schedules, and duration of the Civitavecchia Tangier crossing.

Discounts and special offers

Save money on your ferry booking with these available discounts:

  • Children 0-3 years: Free (no seat guarantee)
  • Children 4-11 years: 50% discount on adult fare
  • Early booking discount: Up to 30% off when booking 60+ days in advance
  • Return tickets: Often discounted compared to two one-way fares
  • Resident discounts: Available for eligible travelers (documentation required)

Prices fluctuate based on season, demand, and how far in advance you book. The highest fares typically occur in July and August when demand peaks. For the best deals on the Civitavecchia to Tangier ferry, consider booking during the shoulder season (June or late August) and reserve at least two months ahead.

Onboard the GNV Fantastic: services and amenities

The GNV Fantastic ferry transforms your long journey into a comfortable mini-cruise experience. With two full days at sea, the vessel provides comprehensive facilities to keep passengers entertained, fed, and rested throughout the crossing from Italy to Morocco.

Dining options

Multiple restaurants and cafeterias ensure you won’t go hungry during the 54 hour trip:

  • Full-service restaurant with à la carte Mediterranean cuisine
  • Self-service buffet with hot and cold meal options
  • Snack bars and cafeterias serving light bites, pastries, and beverages
  • Pizza station for quick meals
  • Multiple bars serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks

Meal packages can sometimes be purchased in advance at a discount. Otherwise, all dining facilities accept both cash (euros) and credit cards.

Entertainment and leisure facilities

  • Children’s play area with games and activities
  • Spacious deck areas for sea views and fresh air
  • Lounges with comfortable seating and entertainment
  • Duty-free shopping area (prices often better than airports)
  • Wi-Fi access (availability and pricing varies)
  • Video game area for teenagers

Traveling with vehicles

One of the main advantages of the Civitavecchia Tangier ferry is the ability to bring your own vehicle, making it ideal for road trips across Morocco and North Africa. The GNV Fantastic features a spacious vehicle deck accommodating:

  • Cars, SUVs, and vans of all sizes
  • Motorcycles and scooters
  • Motorhomes, campervans, and RVs
  • Trailers and caravans (within size limits)
  • Bicycles (usually transported free or at minimal charge)

Important: You cannot access your vehicle during the crossing for safety reasons. Bring all necessary items (medications, entertainment, toiletries, change of clothes) with you to the passenger areas before boarding.

Traveling with Pets

GNV welcomes pets aboard the Civitavecchia to Tangier ferry, though specific regulations apply. Pet-friendly policies include:

  • Pet-friendly cabins available for booking (limited availability)
  • Designated outdoor areas on deck for exercise
  • Kennels available if not booking a pet cabin
  • Standard fee approximately €17 per pet each way
  • Required documents: pet passport, vaccination records, health certificate

Always verify current pet policies when booking, as regulations change and may differ based on animal type and destination country requirements.

Practical Guide: preparing for your Civitavecchia Tanger ferry journey

Getting to Civitavecchia port from Rome

The Port of Civitavecchia (Calata Laurenti) is conveniently located about 80 kilometers northwest of Rome’s city center. Several transportation options connect the Italian capital to the ferry terminal:

By Train (Recommended)

  • Depart from Roma Termini, Ostiense, or Trastevere stations
  • Journey time: 45-60 minutes on regional trains
  • Frequency: Trains run every 30-60 minutes throughout the day
  • Cost: €5-15 depending on train type
  • From Civitavecchia station, the port is a 10-minute walk or short taxi ride

By Car

  • Take the A12 motorway northbound from Rome
  • Journey time: Approximately 1 hour depending on traffic
  • Long-term parking available at the port (€8-15 per day)
  • Book parking in advance during peak summer months

By Shuttle/Bus

  • Private shuttle services operate from Rome hotels to Civitavecchia port
  • Journey time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Cost: €20-40 per person depending on service level

Arriving at Tangier Med port

Tangier Med is Morocco’s largest port, located approximately 40 kilometers east of Tanger city center. After disembarking from the ferry, you’ll need to clear Moroccan customs and immigration before leaving the port area.

Getting to Tangier City

  • Taxi: 40-50 minutes, negotiate fixed price before departure (€25-40)
  • Shuttle bus: Regular services to Tanger city (€5-10)
  • Car rental: Several agencies operate at the port terminal
  • Private transfer: Pre-book for direct hotel drop-off

Luggage allowance and restrictions

GNV typically allows two pieces of luggage per passenger without additional charge. Unlike airlines, weight restrictions are more relaxed, but extremely heavy or oversized items may incur extra fees. Keep valuable items, medications, and travel documents in your hand luggage for the journey.

Prohibited items include

  • Weapons and explosives
  • Illegal drugs and controlled substances
  • Flammable materials
  • Hazardous chemicals

Check-in and boarding process

Arrive at the port well in advance of departure. For the Civitavecchia to Tangier ferry, follow these timeline guidelines:

  • Foot passengers: Arrive 2 hours before departure
  • Passengers with vehicles: Arrive 3 hours before departure
  • Check-in closes 1-2 hours before sailing time
  • Late arrivals may not be permitted to board without refund

The boarding process involves presenting your ticket, passport, and vehicle documents (if applicable), passing through security screening, and proceeding to the designated boarding gate. Vehicles board first, followed by foot passengers.

Top tips for a comfortable 54-hour ferry crossing from Civitavecchia to Tangier

Spending more than two days at sea requires some preparation. Follow these insider tips to make your journey from Civitavecchia to Tangier as pleasant as possible:

  • Book a cabin: Even a basic inside cabin dramatically improves comfort over trying to sleep in lounge chairs for two nights.
  • Bring entertainment: Books, tablets with downloaded movies, games, and music help pass the time.
  • Pack seasickness medication: Even calm seas can affect sensitive travelers on a 54-hour voyage.
  • Carry layers: Air conditioning can make indoor areas cool while deck areas get hot in summer sun.
  • Bring toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and towel if not staying in a cabin.
  • Stay hydrated: Bring a refillable water bottle; onboard water is drinkable but purchasing bottles repeatedly gets expensive.
  • Explore the ship: Familiarize yourself with all facilities early in the journey.
  • Secure valuables: Use cabin safes if available or keep valuables on your person.
  • Bring European electrical adapters: Sockets onboard use European standards.
  • Book early for summer travel: The limited weekly sailings sell out quickly during July and August.
  • Consider travel insurance: Coverage for cancellations, medical emergencies, and delays provides peace of mind.
  • Exchange currency before boarding: Limited currency exchange services onboard.

PORT INFORMATION: CIVITAVECCHIA & TANGIER MED

Civitavecchia Port (Italy)

Address: Porto di Civitavecchia, Calata Laurenti, 00053 Civitavecchia (RM), Italy

Located 80 kilometers northwest of Rome, Civitavecchia port serves as the main departure point for ferries to Morocco. The terminal is easily accessible by regional train from Roma Termini station trains run every 30-60 minutes, taking 45-60 minutes at a cost of €5-15. The port is a 10-minute walk from Civitavecchia train station, or a short €8-10 taxi ride.

If driving, take the A12 motorway from Rome (approximately 1 hour). Long-term parking costs €8-15 per day. Arrive at least 2 hours before departure for foot passengers, or 3 hours with vehicles. Check-in closes 90-120 minutes before sailing.

Terminal facilities: Waiting lounges, cafeteria, free Wi-Fi, ATMs, baggage carts, accessible facilities.

Tangier Med Port (Morocco)

Location: Port Tangier Med, Ksar Sghir, Morocco (40 kilometers east of Tanger city)

Important: Tangier Med is NOT in Tangier city center. The port is located 40-45 km east along the coast, requiring onward transportation after arrival.

Transportation to Tangier city:

  • Taxi: €30-40 (40-minute journey) – negotiate price before boarding
  • Shuttle bus: €5-10 per person (limited schedule)
  • Private transfer: €40-70 (pre-book through your hotel for stress-free arrival)
  • Rental cars: Available at port (Avis, Europcar, Hertz, local agencies)

Customs processing time: 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on season (peak: July-August)

Ferry terminal services: ATMs (Moroccan dirhams), currency exchange, cafeterias, SIM card vendors (€5-15 for tourist packages), duty-free shopping.

Required Documents

All passengers:

  • Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
  • Completed Moroccan entry card (distributed on ferry)

Vehicle passengers (additional):

  • Vehicle registration certificate
  • International insurance green card covering Morocco
  • Driver’s license (International Driving Permit recommended)
  • Temporary vehicle import permit (issued at Moroccan customs)

Tip: Have €50-100 in small euro notes or Moroccan dirhams ready for taxis and immediate expenses upon arrival.

Alternative ferry crossings to Morocco: complete guide from Italy

While the Civitavecchia to Tangier ferry provides a convenient connection from central Italy, numerous alternative maritime routes link Europe with Morocco’s Mediterranean ports. Depending on your departure point, travel schedule, and destination within Morocco, these options may offer shorter crossing times, more frequent departures, or better value. This comprehensive overview helps you compare all available ferry routes from Italy.

Genoa to Tangier Med

The most frequent Italy-Morocco ferry connection operates from Genoa (Genova) in northern Italy. GNV runs this service approximately 3 times per week year-round, making it more reliable than the seasonal Civitavecchia route.

  • Duration: 50-58 hours
  • Frequency: 3 sailings per week (year-round)
  • Operator: Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV)
  • Best for: Northern Italy travelers, year-round availability

The Genoa to Tangier Med ferry crossing represents the most established Italy-Morocco ferry connection and offers more schedule flexibility than sailing from Civitavecchia.

Genoa to Nador: Eastern Morocco Gateway

For travelers whose Moroccan itinerary focuses on the eastern regions or who prefer avoiding the drive from Tanger, the ferry from Genoa to Nador provides direct access to northeastern Morocco.

  • Duration: 26-30 hours
  • Frequency: 1-2 times weekly 
  • Operator: GNV

This GNV-operated service typically runs 1-2 times weekly during peak summer season, landing at Nador’s Beni Ensar port, which offers convenient access to the Rif Mountains, Melilla, and eastern Morocco’s attractions.

Important note: The Genoa to Nador service operates seasonally, primarily June through September, with occasional sailings in May and October depending on demand. 

Frequently Asked Questions: Civitavecchia Tangier ferry

How long is the ferry from Civitavecchia to Tangier?

The ferry journey from Civitavecchia to Tangier Med takes between 54 and 58 hours, depending on weather conditions and whether the ship makes a scheduled stopover in Barcelona. This translates to approximately 2.5 days at sea. The extended duration is due to the considerable distance of roughly 1,100 nautical miles across the Mediterranean Sea.

Which company operates the Civitavecchia to Tangier ferry?

Grandi Navi Veloci, commonly known as GNV, is the sole ferry operator providing service between Civitavecchia and Tangier Med. GNV is one of Italy’s major ferry companies with decades of experience in Mediterranean crossings. The vessel used for this route is typically the GNV Fantastic, a modern ferry equipped with comprehensive passenger amenities for long trip.

When does the Civitavecchia Tangier ferry operate?

This ferry route operates seasonally during the summer months only, typically from June through August. Sailings occur approximately once per week during this period. Outside the summer season, no direct ferry service connects Civitavecchia and Tangier. Travelers seeking year-round Italy-Morocco ferry service should consider the Genoa to Tangier Med route instead.

Can I take my car on the ferry from Rome to Tangier?

Yes, the Civitavecchia Tangier ferry welcomes vehicles of all types, including cars, motorcycles, campervans, motorhomes, and even trailers. Bringing your own vehicle allows for complete travel flexibility once you arrive in Morocco. Vehicle fares vary based on size, with a standard car plus driver typically costing from €280-366. Remember that you’ll need proper insurance coverage for Morocco and may need to purchase temporary Moroccan vehicle registration at customs.

Are pets allowed on the Civitavecchia Tangier ferry?

Yes, GNV permits pets aboard the Civitavecchia Tangier ferry. You can book a pet-friendly cabin where your animal can stay with you, or use the onboard kennels if preferred. Designated outdoor deck areas allow you to exercise your pet during the journey. The standard pet fee is approximately €17 each way. Ensure you have all required documentation including a pet passport, up-to-date vaccination records, and health certificates as required by Moroccan customs.

How do I get to Civitavecchia port from Rome?

The easiest way to reach Civitavecchia from Rome is by regional train, which takes 45-60 minutes and costs €5-15. Trains depart regularly from Roma Termini, Ostiense, and Trastevere stations. From Civitavecchia train station, the port is a 10-minute walk or short taxi ride. Alternatively, you can drive via the A12 motorway (1 hour) or take a private shuttle service. Allow extra time as you must arrive at the port 2-3 hours before ferry departure.

What documents do I need to travel to Morocco by ferry?

All passengers require a valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining. ID cards are not accepted for travel to Morocco, even for EU citizens. Check whether your nationality requires a visa for Morocco. If bringing a vehicle, you need your vehicle registration document, international insurance green card covering Morocco, and a valid driver’s license. Moroccan customs will issue a temporary vehicle import permit upon arrival.

What is Tangier Med and how far is it from Tangier city?

Tangier Med is a modern commercial and passenger port located about 40 kilometers (25 miles) east of Tangier city center. It’s not within walking distance of the city, so you’ll need transportation upon arrival. Taxis take 40-50 minutes and cost €25-40 (negotiate a fixed price beforehand). Shuttle buses provide a more economical option at €5-10, or you can rent a car at the port if continuing your journey independently around Morocco.

Ready to book your ferry from Civitavecchia to Tangier?

The ferry journey from Civitavecchia to Tangier offers a unique and memorable way to travel between Italy and Morocco. While the 54-58 hour crossing demands more time than flying, it provides unmatched convenience for travelers with vehicles, those who prefer sea travel, or anyone seeking a more relaxed and scenic alternative to air transportation.

With Grandi Navi Veloci operating modern vessels equipped with comfortable cabins, varied dining options, and entertainment facilities, your time at sea becomes part of the adventure rather than merely a means to an end. The ability to bring your car, motorcycle, or campervan opens up Morocco for independent exploration, making this ferry route especially popular with road-trippers and overland travelers heading to Africa.

Remember to book well in advance, particularly for July and August departures when the limited weekly sailings fill quickly. Prepare properly with appropriate documentation, cabin reservations, and entertainment for the long crossing. Whether you’re embarking on a Moroccan holiday, continuing southward through Africa, or returning home, the ferry from Rome’s port of Civitavecchia to Tangier Med provides a distinctive Mediterranean maritime experience.

Start planning your journey today by comparing schedules and prices for your preferred travel dates. With early booking discounts of up to 30% available and fares starting from just €156, crossing from Italy to Morocco by ferry remains an accessible and appealing option for adventurous travelers.

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