Barcelona to Nador Ferry: Booking, Prices, and Schedules

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Are you looking to cross the Mediterranean from Barcelona to Nador? The Barcelona Nador ferry route operated by GNV (Grandi Navi Veloci) is one of the most popular crossings connecting Spain to northeastern Morocco. Whether you’re traveling by car, with children, or simply looking for the best price, find out everything you need to know to book your ferry ticket and prepare for your trip with peace of mind.

Barcelona to Nador ferry crossing: essential information

The Barcelona to Nador ferry allows you to reach Morocco from Catalonia while avoiding long overland routes. This maritime connection offers a comfortable alternative for travellers who want to cross with their own vehicle.

InformationDetails
OperatorGNV (Grandi Navi Veloci) – Exclusive operator
Crossing duration25h30 to 31h15 (average 27h30)
DistanceApprox. 822 km (443 nautical miles)
Frequency1 to 2 departures per week depending on the season
Vessel typeConventional ferry with cabins
Vehicle transportCars, motorbikes, motorhomes, vans accepted
PetsAllowed with proper documentation

Barcelona to Nador ferry prices

Fares for the Barcelona to Nador ferry vary depending on the booking period, the season, and the type of cabin you choose. Below is an estimate of the average 2025 prices.

Indicative one-way fares (subject to change):

  • Foot passenger: from €103
  • Passenger + standard vehicle: from €244
  • Family (2 adults + 2 children + car): from €450
  • Motorhome (under 6 m): from €380

Good to know: Children under 4 travel for free (no dedicated seat). Children aged between 4 and 14 usually benefit from a 50% discount on the adult fare.

Based on observed data, the average price for a Barcelona to Nador crossing with a vehicle is around €457, while fares can reach €924 in high season for family trips with comfortable cabins.

Schedules and Crossing Frequency

GNV operates the Barcelona to Nador route all year round, with schedules that change according to the season:

  • Low season (October to May): usually 1 departure per week
  • High season (June to September): up to 2 departures per week

Departures from Barcelona generally take place in the morning or early afternoon. You should always check the exact schedule when booking, as departure times may change depending on demand and weather conditions.

Mandatory check-in:

  • With a vehicle: arrive 4 hours before departure
  • Foot passengers: arrive 2 hours before departure

Check-in closes 1 hour before the ship leaves.

View upcoming departures

Book your Barcelona Nador ferry ticket for less

Early booking is strongly recommended for the Barcelona Nador ferry, especially during school holidays and the summer months when many travellers return to Morocco.

How to buy your Barcelona Nador ferry ticket at the best price?

Online booking on SmartFerry (recommended)

  1. Use the search engine at the top of this page
  2. Select your travel dates
  3. Enter the number of passengers and your vehicle type
  4. Compare the available cabin options
  5. Complete your booking in a few clicks
  6. Receive your confirmation and e-ticket by email

Booking by phone

Call our team at +33 4 65 84 14 13 (Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm). Our advisors can guide you and offer exclusive promotions when available.

When to Book your Barcelona Nador ferry to Save Money?

Best times to book

  • 6 to 8 weeks in advance: better availability and lower fares
  • Outside school holidays: savings up to 30%
  • Early-booking deals: check for special offers between January and March for summer trips

Avoid

  • Last-minute bookings (limited availability and higher prices)
  • Departures on long weekends and public holidays
  • The peak period between 15 July and 31 August

Regular travellers can also benefit from loyalty programmes or discounts when booking round trips at the same time.

Compare dates and find the best price

Prepare your Barcelona Nador ferry trip

Good preparation ensures a smooth and stress-free crossing. Here is everything you need to know before boarding the Barcelona to Nador ferry.

Required Documents for the Barcelona Nador crossing

For all passengers (adults and children)

  • Valid passport (mandatory, ID cards are not accepted)
  • Passport validity: at least 6 months after the departure date
  • For minors: individual passport required, including infants

For minors travelling alone (14+)

  • Parental authorisation signed by both parents
  • Copies of the parents’ or legal guardians’ ID documents
  • CERFA form n°15646*01 (required for all minors residing in France who wish to travel abroad without being accompanied by a legal guardian).

For your vehicle

  • Original registration document (no photocopies)
  • International insurance (green card)
  • Valid driving licence

These documents must be presented at boarding and may be checked by customs officers. Keep them easily accessible throughout the Barcelona Nador ferry crossing.

Travelling from Barcelona to Nador with your car

The Barcelona Nador ferry accepts all types of vehicles: cars, motorbikes, motorhomes, vans, caravans and trailers.

When booking, make sure you specify:

  • Length, width and height
  • Accessories (roof box, bike rack, tow bar)
  • Presence of a trailer or caravan

Loading on board

  • You drive your vehicle into the garage deck
  • Crew members guide you to the assigned spot
  • Take only what you need for the journey
  • The garage is not accessible during navigation

Accepted vehicle types

  • Passenger cars (all sizes)
  • Motorbikes and scooters
  • Motorhomes up to 9 metres
  • Converted vans
  • Light commercial vehicles
  • Caravans and trailers

Tip: If you have a roof box or bike rack, always declare it during booking. The fare may be slightly higher, but it must be registered to match the garage dimensions.

Travelling from Barcelona to Nador with your pet

Good news: pets are welcome on the Barcelona Nador ferry. GNV offers several options for travelling with dogs, cats and small animals.

Available options

  • On-board kennel: dedicated climate-controlled areas (subject to availability)
  • Pet-friendly cabin: stay in your cabin with your animal (extra fee applies)
  • Outdoor deck access: allowed with leash and muzzle

Mandatory documents

  • European pet passport
  • Microchip identification (or readable tattoo)
  • Valid rabies vaccination (at least 21 days before departure)
  • Veterinary health certificate (issued within 10 days)

Rules on board

  1. Dogs must be kept on a leash

  2. Muzzle required for category 1 and 2 dogs

  3. Cats must remain in a carrier

  4. No access to restaurants or indoor lounges

  5. Outdoor deck access allowed for walks

Always declare your pet when booking. An extra fee applies (usually between €25 and €60 depending on the option chosen).

Baggage and Restrictions

There is no strict baggage limit on the Barcelona Nador ferry, but reasonable volume is recommended.

For passengers with a vehicle

  • Load your boot as needed
  • Roof boxes allowed (must be declared when booking)
  • Nothing should protrude dangerously from the vehicle
  • No dangerous or prohibited items (gas bottles, flammable products)

For foot passengers

  • Usually 2 checked bags + 1 cabin bag
  • Weight limits vary depending on the company’s rules
  • Wheeled suitcases and travel bags recommended

Prohibited items

  • Weapons or dangerous objects
  • Flammable or explosive products
  • Gas bottles (except authorised camping-car systems)
  • Drugs and illegal substances

Book my ferry crossing with a vehicle

On board the GNV Barcelona Nador ferry

The crossing lasts around 27 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the facilities on board. GNV provides everything needed to make your Barcelona Nador ferry trip comfortable and pleasant.

Cabin Types Available

Several cabin categories are offered to suit different budgets and travel needs.

Inside Cabin

  • No window, economical option
  • 2 or 4 berths
  • Private bathroom (shower, toilet, sink)
  • Air conditioning
  • From €50/person (indicative, subject to change)

Sea View Cabin

  • Window or porthole facing outside
  • 2 or 4 berths
  • Fully equipped bathroom
  • Slightly larger space
  • From €75/person (indicative, subject to change)

Pet-Friendly Cabin

  • Designed for travellers with pets
  • Direct access to outdoor deck
  • Adapted equipment (bowls available)
  • Limited availability: early booking essential
  • From €90/person + pet supplement (indicative)

Family Suite

  • 4 to 6 berths
  • Separate lounge area
  • Spacious bathroom
  • Ideal for families
  • From €250 per suite (indicative)

Presidential Suite

  • Premium cabin with private balcony
  • King-size bed
  • Private lounge with TV
  • Priority service
  • From €400 per suite (indicative)

Budget alternative: Reclining seats (airline-style) are available at no extra cost. Acceptable for one night, but less comfortable for a 27 hour Barcelona Nador ferry crossing.

Services and Entertainment

To make your trip enjoyable, GNV offers various services on board.

Dining

  • À la carte restaurant with Mediterranean and Moroccan dishes
  • Self-service buffet
  • Pizzeria
  • Cafeteria and snack bar open continuously
  • Halal options available

Entertainment

  • Cinema room (movie screenings)
  • Panoramic lounge bar
  • Children’s play areas
  • Duty-free shop (perfumes, alcohol, tobacco, gifts)
  • Paid Wi-Fi with available packages

Prayer Areas

  • Dedicated Muslim prayer rooms (mats, Qurans)
  • Quiet spaces for all faiths

Practical Services

  • 24/7 information desk
  • Meeting room for business travellers
  • Accessibility for passengers with reduced mobility
  • Elevators
  • Vending machines

Dining on Board

With a crossing of more than 27 hours, you’ll have time to try the different dining areas on the Barcelona Nador ferry.

Recommended meal options

  • Prepaid Food Pass: Rechargeable card usable in all restaurants (saves 15%–20%)
  • Meal plans: Half-board or full-board available when booking
  • À la carte: Pay individually for each meal

Indicative price ranges (subject to change)

  • Buffet breakfast: €8 to 12
  • Lunch or dinner at the restaurant: €15 to 25
  • Pizza: €7 to 10
  • Snack sandwich: €5 to 8
  • Drinks: €2 to 5

Tip: Restaurants can get busy during peak hours. Choose off-peak times (around 11:30 for lunch, 19:30 for dinner).

Book with cabin and meal options

Port of Barcelona: access and practical information

Full address:
Estación Marítima Barcelona
Muelle de San Beltrán
08039 Barcelona, Spain

Access by car

  • From the AP-7 or C-32 highways, follow signs for “Port de Barcelona”
  • Long-stay parking available (about €15 to 25/day, indicative)
  • GPS: 41°21’10.8″N 2°10’44.7″E

Access by public transport

  • Metro: Line L3 (green), “Drassanes” station, then a 15 minute walk or bus
  • Bus: Lines 59, 120, D20 to the port
  • Taxi: Around €15 to 20 from Plaça Catalunya

Hotels nearby

If you’re staying in Barcelona the night before your Barcelona Nador ferry, there are many hotels close to the port in the Barceloneta area. Book early for the best rates.

Things to do before boarding

  • Visit Las Ramblas (1.5 km from the port)
  • Explore the Gothic Quarter
  • Enjoy a drink in Barceloneta
  • See the Sagrada Familia (20 minutes by metro)

Recommended timing: Arrive 4 hours before departure if travelling with a vehicle. If you’re staying in the city, allow an extra 30 minutes due to possible traffic around the port.

Port of Nador: complete guide

Full address:
Port de Nador Beni Ensar
Boulevard de Taouima (Route N19)
Nador, Morocco

Access and location

  • Around 15 km south of Nador city centre
  • 12 km from Melilla (Spanish enclave)
  • 7 km from Nador-Aroui International Airport
  • GPS: 35°16’43.8″N 2°56’02.4″W

Destinations from Nador

Nador is a strategic starting point for exploring northeastern Morocco:

  • Nador city: 15 km (market, corniche, Bou Areg lagoon)
  • Al Hoceima: 145 km (beaches, Al Hoceima National Park)
  • Fes: 280 km (UNESCO medina)
  • Tangier: 330 km
  • Saïdia: 60 km (renowned beach)
  • Melilla: 12 km (Spanish enclave)

Transport from the port

  • Taxis: Readily available outside the port (agree on the fare beforehand)
  • Car rental: Agencies on site (Hertz, Europcar, local providers)
  • Bus: Connections to Nador city and other destinations

Practical tips

  • Currency exchange available at the port (rates may be less favourable)
  • International bank cards accepted at most ATMs
  • Consider buying a Moroccan SIM card if staying several days
  • Taxis don’t always use a meter, negotiate the fare in advance

Accommodation in Nador

If you arrive late or want to rest before continuing your trip, Nador offers a range of hotels for all budgets, from simple guesthouses to resorts overlooking the lagoon.

Alternatives to the Barcelona Nador ferry from Spain

The Barcelona to Nador ferry is a practical solution if you’re travelling from Catalonia and prefer a direct overnight crossing to eastern Morocco. It allows you to bring your vehicle and arrive close to the Algerian border without changing ports.

Still, Barcelona isn’t always the most convenient departure point. If you are already in southern Spain, sailing from Almería to Nador usually cuts the journey down to just a few hours, making it one of the fastest ways to reach Morocco by sea. Many travellers choose this route to save both time and fuel compared with driving all the way to Barcelona.

If your destination is northern Morocco, Tangier can be easier to access than Nador. In that case, the Algeciras to Tangier Med ferry offers the highest number of daily departures and the shortest crossing time between Spain and Morocco, which makes it ideal for flexible travel plans. From Barcelona, you can also sail directly on the Barcelona to Tangier Med ferry, a longer but comfortable overnight option with cabins and onboard services.

Comparing these departure ports helps you choose the right balance between travel time, ticket price and comfort, instead of limiting your trip to a single route.

To see all crossings between Spain and Morocco, visit our dedicated Morocco ferry page, where you can find all routes, schedules, and ticket prices.

FAQ about the Barcelona to Nador ferry: essential answers before you book

1. How long is the ferry from Barcelona to Nador?

The Barcelona Nador ferry takes about 27 hours on average, depending on sea conditions and the ship assigned to the route.

2. Which ferry company operates the Barcelona Nador ferry route?

This line is operated exclusively by GNV (Grandi Navi Veloci). The company offers cabins, restaurants, lounges, and services for travelers with vehicles or pets.

3. How often does the ferry run between Barcelona and Nador?

There are 1 to 2 weekly departures, depending on the season. Summer usually offers increased frequency.

4. Can I travel with my car on the Barcelona Nador ferry?

Yes. All types of vehicles are accepted: cars, motorcycles, vans, campervans, caravans, and trailers.

5. What documents do I need to travel from Barcelona to Nador?

You must present a valid passport and vehicle documents if applicable. Minors traveling alone must carry the required authorization forms.

6. Are pets allowed on the Barcelona Nador ferry?

Yes. You can travel with pets using onboard kennels or pet-friendly cabins. A pet passport, microchip, and valid rabies vaccine are mandatory.

7. When is the best time to book the Barcelona to Nador ferry?

For better prices and availability, book 6 to 8 weeks in advance, especially for summer and school holidays.

8. How much does a ferry ticket from Barcelona to Nador cost?

Prices vary according to the season, cabin type, and vehicle size. The lowest fares usually appear outside peak months and with early booking offers.

9. What accommodation options are available on the ship?

The ferry offers inside cabins, sea-view cabins, family suites, pet-friendly cabins, recliner seats, and premium suites depending on the ship.

10. At what time should I arrive at the Port of Barcelona for boarding?

You should arrive 4 hours before departure if you travel with a vehicle, and at least 2 hours before if you travel on foot.

11. Can I buy food on the Barcelona Nador ferry?

Yes. GNV provides several dining options: restaurants, self-service buffets, cafés, snacks, and prepaid meal plans.

12. Where does the ferry arrive in Nador?

The ferry arrives at Port of Nador Beni Ensar, located near Melilla and only 15 km from Nador city center.

13. Is there Wi-Fi on the Barcelona Nador ferry?

Wi-Fi is available through paid packages, which can be purchased once onboard.

14. Is the Barcelona Nador ferry suitable for families?

Yes. The ship includes family cabins, child-friendly areas, entertainment, and a calm travel environment for long crossings.

15. Can I get a private cabin on the Barcelona Nador ferry?

Yes. Cabins are available for solo travelers, couples, families, and passengers with pets. Booking early ensures more choice.

Book your Barcelona Nador Ferry ticket now!

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