The Italian port city of Genoa has long been considered one of the most important European and Mediterranean Sea hubs. The city and port were destroyed during WWII, then rebuilt and continually upgraded until the city became one of Europe’s busiest ferry ports. In addition, Genoa is home to one of Italy’s largest shipbuilding industry.
Genoa’s Port consists of two terminals for passenger ferry ships. Both terminals are designed following airport concepts, allowing for faster check-in, baggage check and several other high-quality facilities. Restaurants, shops, ATM’s and cafés are also provided in both terminals.
The crossing from Genoa to Tunis is provided by two ferry companies. The younger of the two companies, Grandi Navi Veloci, was founded in 1992 as part of the Grimaldi Group. Recently, a modern array of vessels have been introduced along Mediterranean routes, such as the Tenacia and Audacia. Offering the comfort and convenience of a cruise liner, the new ferries provide faster crossings for passengers, cars, and cargo freight.
The second company operating crossings between Genoa and Tunis is SNCM, officially Société Nationale Maritime Corse Méditerranée, which has been in operation since 1976. The SNCM vessels have a larger passenger, car, and freight capacity than Grandi Navi Veloci. The company also operates the crossing over 3,500 times annually.
The port of Tunis is located in Tunisia’s capital city, nestled upon North Africa’s Mediterranean coast. The terminal consists of very limited facilities, but shops are available a short distance from the port. Nevertheless, plans for an upgraded terminal facility are currently underway.
The city is a vibrant destination, radiating a contrast of cultural aspects from Arabian and colonial French influences. The port of Tunis welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, seeking a Tunisian get-away. Visitors can experience the Carthage ruins, walk the exotic Arabian maze streets of Tunis, or venture into the neighbouring North-African nations.
Tags: Audacia, Europe, Genoa, Grandi Navi Veloci, Tenacia, Tunis