Italian ferry company Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV) will add two new ships, GNV Aurora and GNV Virgo, to its Morocco routes from summer 2026.
The ships run on liquefied natural gas (LNG), which produces less pollution than older fuel types. GNV says the new vessels could cut carbon dioxide emissions by up to 50 percent per trip compared with its older ferries.
The company says the plan is part of a wider effort to modernise its fleet and make sea travel between Europe and North Africa cleaner and more efficient.
GNV runs ferry services across the Mediterranean, including routes linking Morocco with Europe. These crossings are especially busy during summer because of Operation Marhaba, when millions of Moroccans living abroad travel home for holidays.
The Strait of Gibraltar route is one of the busiest ferry corridors in the world, handling both passengers and freight.
LNG is seen as a cleaner option in shipping because it reduces harmful gases like sulphur and nitrogen oxides, which affect air quality in port cities.
The shipping industry is under pressure to cut emissions, with international targets set to reach net reductions by 2050.
Morocco is also investing in its ports, including Tangier Med, which has become a major hub for trade between Africa and Europe.
The ferry upgrade also comes as preparations continue for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco will co-host with Spain and Portugal. Officials expect much higher travel demand between the countries during the tournament.
