How long does it take to cross the Strait of Gibraltar

The Strait of Gibraltar is the place where the separation between Europe and Africa takes place and, at the same time, the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean meet, being an essential passageway between both continents. 

One of the most important shipping lanes in the world, every day, thousands of people have to cross the Strait of Gibraltar to go from the Spanish coast to the African coast, or vice versa, either for work, tourism or to visit friends or family. 

But, how long does it take to cross the Strait of Gibraltar?

Nowadays, although there are other possibilities such as helicopter, the ferry is the main means of transport to cross the strait, and the travel time may vary depending on the point of departure and the type of ferry. 

At FRS we have several ferries that cross the Strait of Gibraltar, which depart from different points in Spain and Morocco, connecting Europe and Africa in a comfortable and efficient way. 

If you need to make this journey, in this post we tell you how long it takes to cross the Strait of Gibraltar depending on the route you are going to take.

Crossing the Strait of Gibraltar: how far is it? 

 

The Strait of Gibraltar is approximately 14 kilometres at its narrowest point, making it a relatively short crossing in distance, connecting the Mediterranean Sea with the Atlantic Ocean and separating the southern tip of Spain from the northern coast of Morocco. 

However, as we have mentioned, the time it takes to cross the strait depends on several factors, such as the port of departure, sea conditions, the type of ferry or the number of passengers traveling on board. 

At FRS we make this crossing in a time of approximately 60 to 90 minutes, although this time can vary significantly depending on the factors we have already discussed. 

How long does it take to cross the Strait of Gibraltar according to the ferry? 

 

Ferry Algeciras – Ceuta 

 

The Algeciras – Ceuta ferry crossing lasts approximately one hour, which we carry out with our high-speed ferries, positioning ourselves as one of the most comfortable and fastest ways to get to Ceuta. 

At FRS, the ferry from Algeciras to Ceuta eaves every day and has numerous departures, which offers great flexibility when making this journey, with a ticket price that is usually around 30-35 euros per passenger. 

This is a round trip ferry, which also leaves from the port of Ceuta to Algeciras, with at least five departures a day from Algeciras and another five from Ceuta. 

 

Ferry Tangier Med - Algeciras 

 

If you are in Morocco, FRS can also take the Tangier Med Algeciras ferry, which takes approximately 90 minutes, and leaves several times a day throughout the week, including Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, from 2:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. 

We operate this route using two ferries, the Kattegat, which has a capacity of 1,000 passengers and 340 cars, and the Tanger Express, which has the same capacity. 

Regardless of the port of departure and arrival, FRS vessels have all the amenities, being equipped with comfortable seats, WiFi, cafeteria or duty free shop. 

As you will see, the ferry trip is an experience that connects two continents and cultures rich in history and, from the deck of the boat, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, watch dolphins and, on clear days, see the African and European coast at the same time.

If you need to travel across the Strait of Gibraltar, buy your ticket conveniently through our website, where you can see the departure times and days, and change the date of your trip without any cost or penalty.