Spain
Motril to Melilla Ferry
Schedule, crossing time & sailings for 2026
Departs
Motril
Granada
Arrives
Melilla
At a glance
The Motril to Melilla ferry. It is operated by Transmediterránea acciona, Naviera Armas.
- Sailings listed
- 0
Motril to Melilla ferry timetable
Seasonal sailing times
The Motril to Melilla ferry is operated by Transmediterránea acciona, Naviera Armas. Sailings change with the season, and departures are confirmed ahead of each sailing period.
Times are indicative and may change seasonally. Confirm with the operator before travelling.
About the Motril – Melilla crossing
The ferry from Motril in Granada province to Melilla, the Spanish autonomous city on the North African coast, is one of the most reliable year-round links between the Iberian mainland and Spain's enclaves. Although it is technically a domestic Spanish crossing, both endpoints being Spanish territory, Melilla lies outside the Schengen customs and border area, so passengers should carry a valid national ID card or passport and expect identity and customs checks at the port.
Operator and frequency
The route is served by Baleària, which guarantees crossings throughout the year, typically several evening departures per week plus additional daytime sailings in high season. Between the operators working the western Alboran corridor there are usually around six weekly departures, giving good flexibility for both residents and holidaymakers heading to Melilla's beaches, historic Melilla la Vieja fortress and modernist architecture.
Crossing time
Journey length depends on the sailing. The scheduled night ferry departs Motril late evening and takes around 6 to 7 hours, arriving the following morning, which lets passengers sleep aboard in a cabin. In summer a faster daytime service can cover the route in roughly 5 to 5 and a half hours. Cabins, reclining seats, a cafeteria and vehicle decks are available.
Vehicles and ports
The ferry carries cars, motorhomes, motorcycles and freight as well as foot passengers, and Motril's port has good road links via the A-7 motorway. Melilla's port sits right beside the city centre. Because this is a lifeline route for the enclave, booking ahead is strongly advised around long weekends, summer and public holidays when both passenger and vehicle space fill up.
Vehicles, pets & onboard
- Car ferries & fast ferries
- Seats & cabins
- Vehicle decks
- Resident discounts
- ROPAX & fast ferries
- Canary resident discounts
Vehicle space is available on this route — book early, especially in peak season. Onboard facilities and vehicle, pet and luggage policies vary by operator and vessel; confirm details with the operator before booking.
Getting to & from the ports
Frequently asked questions
Is the Motril to Melilla ferry a domestic or international route?
It is a domestic Spanish route because both Motril and Melilla are Spanish territory. However, Melilla is outside the Schengen customs zone, so you should carry ID or a passport and expect document and customs checks.
How long does the Motril to Melilla ferry take?
The overnight service takes about 6 to 7 hours, while a faster daytime crossing in high season can take roughly 5 to 5 and a half hours.
Who runs the Motril to Melilla ferry and how often?
Balearia operates the route year-round with several weekly departures, typically around six crossings a week including evening and, in summer, daytime sailings.
Can I take a car on the Motril to Melilla ferry?
Yes. The ferry carries cars, motorhomes, motorcycles and freight alongside foot passengers. Vehicle space should be booked in advance, especially in summer and around holidays.
Do I need a passport for Melilla?
For Spanish and EU citizens a national ID card is generally sufficient since it is Spanish territory, but carrying a passport is recommended because of the customs and identity checks at the enclave.
How much does a ticket cost?
Ticket prices vary by operator, season and whether you bring a vehicle. Check the operator (Transmediterránea acciona and Naviera Armas) for current fares.
Does the ferry run all year?
Sailing frequency on this route varies by season. Confirm current dates with the operator before travelling.
Can I take a pet on this ferry?
Most ferry operators allow pets on this route, usually in a carrier, on deck or in designated pet areas or cabins, and registered assistance dogs travel free. Rules and any fees vary by operator and vessel — check with Transmediterránea acciona and Naviera Armas, so declare your pet when booking.
What's the luggage allowance?
Foot passengers can normally bring their own luggage aboard at no extra charge, with racks or a luggage area near the entrance, and there is usually no airline-style weight limit. Oversized or excess items may carry a fee, so check with the operator if you are travelling with bulky baggage.
Where can I check live sailing times?
The timetable on this page shows the latest published sailings for this route. Always confirm with the operator before travelling, as schedules change seasonally.
Continue your journey
Onward sailings from Melilla
Plan a multi-leg trip — these ferries depart Melilla.
Same departure port
More ferries from Motril
Other crossings departing Motril.
Sharing a stop
Crossings calling at Motril or Melilla
Other ferries that stop at the same quays — handy for connections and nearby travel.
Choosing an operator
Compare operators on this crossing
More than one company sails Motril–Melilla — see how they stack up.
Reviewed by Serhat Özçelik, Founder & Editor of Ferry Schedule Hub · Last updated July 13, 2026.
Operators on this route
Ports on this route
Motril on the map
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