Morocco and Algeria in North Africa are on the opposite side of the Mediterranean Sea from the Andalusia region of southeast Spain. A convenient method of traversing the Mediterranean is to board freight ferries to Almeria which depart from Nador and Melilla on the Moroccan coast, or Ghazaouet on Algeria’s.

All these freight ferries to Almeria routes are serviced by Acciona Trasmediterranea Ferries, Spain’s finest ferry operator. From Nador and Ghazaouet there are four weekly sailings and from Melilla there are two. Crossing times vary from four to seven hours. The crossing from Melilla is the most popular.

Melilla is easily reached on the N2 road. In the summer months there are extra freight ferries to Almeria from Melilla. Journey time on this route is only five hours. Ships on this crossing have the latest ride-control technology and boast full passenger amenities with restaurants, bars, coffee shops and retail outlets on board.

Motorists with perishable cargoes can take advantage of refrigeration and storage facilities. After the dry desert areas of North Africa travellers on freight ferries to Almeria will welcome the sight of the more verdant mountains ringing the Andalusian shores. Ferries dock at Almeria’s port (Puerto de Almeria) which gives great views of the ancient castle (Alcazaba) and the city’s 16th century Gothic cathedral.

Almeria Port has only basic facilities but ATMs, restaurants and shops are just outside it. Ferries can be booked online, probably easiest, or by telephoning Trasmediterranea Reservations at +34 902 454645. From Almeria southern Spain’s principal motorway, the A7, is only one kilometre way.

Tags: Algeria, Almeria, cciona Trasmediterranea Ferries, Ghazaouet, Morocco, North Africa, Spain