Spain Launches Ferry Repatriation for Thousands Stranded in Morocco

Despite the suspension of maritime links with Spain, the Moroccan authorities, at the request of the Spanish embassy, have authorized special ferries to repatriate the Spaniards stranded in Morocco after the suspension of flights with Spain and France. A first wave will take place this Sunday, April 4 by Balearia, from Tanger Med to Algeciras, and a second will be carried out on Tuesday, April 6 by Trasmediterránea.

Baltasar López, 35, and his friend, both from Murcia, are among these Spaniards stranded in Morocco. Respecting the health rules, in particular the presentation of a negative PCR test, they took a flight from Malaga to Marrakech to spend the Easter holidays there. Since then, they have been waiting to be repatriated. "No one tells us anything, neither at the embassy nor at the consulates," says Baltasar, who recalls that he has to "go back to work". Baltasar and his friend have booked places on Sunday’s ferry and hope to get confirmation to be able to return home.

Like them, many Spanish citizens are awaiting confirmation of their reservation. "I’m still waiting for an answer for the 4th! Why doesn’t anyone answer us?! I sent the form on Tuesday and I’m still waiting for confirmation. Balearia tells me it’s the embassy or the consulate that receives these forms and gives the confirmations. We need information!" tweeted a certain P. LopezM.

According to the Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs, Arancha González Laya, some 3,000 Spaniards are stranded in Morocco after the suspension of air links. She also advised Spaniards "to refrain from traveling" during this period. "Stay in your autonomous community and in your city; it’s the most prudent thing to do," she stressed.