Spanish ferry company ARMAS Trasmediterránea says it will offer more than two million seats between Morocco and Spain for Operation Marhaba 2026.
The extra capacity is for the busy summer travel period from 15 June to 15 September, when demand for crossings rises sharply.
The ferries will run between the Spanish ports of Algeciras, Motril and Almería and the Moroccan ports of Tanger Med, Nador and Al Hoceima. The company says the aim is to make travel smoother for Moroccans living abroad and other passengers.
Commercial director Oscar Martínez said the summer operation needs careful planning to keep trips safe and comfortable. The company will increase the number of sailings, carry more cars and bring in extra staff to handle the expected crowds, which should be higher than last year.
ARMAS Trasmediterránea is also working with port authorities, security services and civil protection teams in both countries to keep the operation organised.
Operation Marhaba, also called the Passage of the Strait, started in 1986. It helps millions of Moroccans living in Europe return home for the summer. It is one of the biggest seasonal travel movements in the world.
The Algeciras–Tanger Med route is the busiest link between Europe and Africa. Routes from Almería and Motril to Nador and Al Hoceima help serve eastern and central Morocco and reduce congestion at the Strait of Gibraltar.
The summer return has a big impact on Morocco’s economy, boosting tourism, shopping and services. Since borders fully reopened after the pandemic, numbers have grown. In 2024 and 2025 the operation saw more than three million passengers and over 700,000 vehicles.
ARMAS Trasmediterránea became a major player in Spanish sea travel after Naviera Armas bought Trasmediterránea in 2018. Its ships include fast ferries and vessels designed to carry both passengers and vehicles.
The operation is run by a joint Spain–Morocco committee. During busy days, passengers can take the first available ferry even if it is not the company on their ticket. The Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity also sets up rest areas and medical clinics along major routes and inside ports to help families travelling long distances across Europe.
