Ports in Morocco – Important to Local Economy
Morocco is a country that is surrounded by plenty of water. Not only does this mean that you can enjoy the refreshing qualities of the ocean, but it also means you can use it for travel, trade and recreational sports like fishing. Fortunately Morocco has many well-established ports that visitors and business people can use with relative ease. There is usually a port of reasonable size in all the main coastal cities and you will find that each one has something worthwhile on offer. If you are planning to make use of this feature, you may want to research the many Moroccan ports to discover the advantages of each one.
While their sizes may differ significantly from one port to the next, they all play an important and necessary role in the local economy. In addition to this, these ports are usually the best place to look if you enjoy good seafood since most of the best seafood restaurants are situated near the ports for easy access to fresh supplies. We have provided a basic description of Morocco’s main ports, so why not browse through the information supplied to get a better idea of what is available at each port in Morocco? It can save you a lot of time and energy when you travel.
Port of Al Hoceima:
The Port of Al Hoceima serves the many local fishing vessels and recreational boats, as well as the daily ferries which carry visitors to and from this popular sea-side town which is well-known for its beautiful beaches. The port’s busy fish market trades every day of the week and it is interesting for visitors to observe the traders negotiate on a price for the catch of the day and the clubs, restaurants and coffee shops at the port have earned a reputation for their good food and warm atmosphere.
Port of Casablanca:
The Port of Casablanca is probably the most well known and largest of all Morocco’s ports. This port is the biggest artificial port on the planet and that is one of many things that make it an attraction worth visiting. However, this is certainly not its only function and it serves the local shipping and fishing industry well and also receives boats with travelers from Spain. The port is situated near a large road and railway network which means that it has excellent land connections to other parts of the country. It is also protected from rough seas and strong winds by the Moulay Youssef Jetty. The port plays a very important role in Morocco’s economy and it is usually the first port that most people will think of when talking about Ports in Morocco.
Port of Essaouira:
With its extensive and fascinating history, the Port of Essaouira is a popular tourist attraction which caters for the colorful local fishing boats, as well as local and visiting leisure craft. As the port is not used for commercial purposes it has retained its authenticity and old-world charm. Visitors will find that there are many interesting features to this charming port, starting with the gateway which was constructed in 1793 and including local fishermen plying their wares while they keep an eye on the ever-present seagulls.
Port of Tangier:
This busy port is situated next to the medina and near the Ville Nouvelle, so visitors who arrive on the daily ferries can take a pleasant stroll to the town center. The port is also used for local fishing vessels and commercial purposes and as such, it is generally very busy. Future plans for the port, which should be completed in 2009, will separate the ever-increasing commercial traffic from passenger traffic, easing the congestion which is sometimes experienced at this bustling port.
Port of Safi:
Although Safi accommodates numerous fishing and passenger vessels, its primary function is to handle commercial goods and is one of Morocco’s key ports in this regard. The constant activity through the day with cranes, elevators, tractors and trailers moving goods around at an impressive rate can make for interesting viewing if you are mechanically minded.
