According to the Association of Mediterranean Cruise Ports, Ceuta, Spain welcomes 25 cruise ships annually. This number has more than doubled since 2006. So, where is Ceuta and what can visitors see and do in this European cruise port?
Where is Ceuta, Spain?
The Europe cruise port of Ceuta is a Spanish enclave on the northern coast of North Africa. In fact the Moroccan border lies only a couple of miles away. This autonomous city of Spain, located on the south side of the Strait of Gibraltar sits at the foot of Monte Hacho. Monte Hacho is also presumed to be one of the Pillars of Hercules. The northern pillar is the Rock of Gibraltar.
Since Ceuta’s founding in the 5th century it has been a strategic location for both military and trade. Consequently, it has been ruled by Carthage, Rome, Portugal, and Spain. Today this small city remains a cosmopolitan melting pot of Spanish and Moroccan culture as it is the gateway to Morocco.
What to See and Do in Ceuta
Beaches of Ceuta – Located only a couple of blocks from the cruise ship pier is Playa de la Ribera. Alternatively, Playa del Chorrillo is a bit farther from the pier. The water is clear and the beaches have stones rather than sand.
The Royal Walls (Murallas Reales) – The remains of the old city walls rise to 33 feet and date back to the 16th century. There is a small canal that runs from the northern harbor to the south side of Ceuta where the beaches are.
Parque Mediterraneo – The Mediterranean Maritime Park is a 56,000 m2 resort-like center (over 600,000 square feet). It is a network of gardens, lakes and solariums along with three swimming pools and a casino. It is located near the harbour, just past the marina along the Esplanade.
Our Lady of Africa – This small baroque church was rebuilt in the 17th century. It is home to religious artefacts donated by Prince Henry the Navigator.
Plaza de Africa – Located in the heart of Ceuta is the Plaza de Africa. This is also the location of the Cathedral, built in 1729. Plaza de Africa is historically one of the most important public squares in Ceuta and houses a number of shops, too.
Monte Hacho – Ceuta is dominated by a hill on which there sits castle-like fortresses, Hacho and Desnarigado. The Desnarigado Castle is also a museum containing military artefacts. At the top there is the hermitage of San Antonio, a 16th building that was once the residence of a bishop. Visitors will enjoy the panoramic views of the Ceuta from there.
Shopping in Ceuta – The port of Ceuta offers the benefit of duty-free shopping. Calle Real is a popular commercial street with shops for clothes, jewellery and electronic goods.
Cruise Excursions in Ceuta
Best of Ceuta – Passengers can discover Ceuta and Spanish Morocco on a narrated drive. Visit Parque Mediterraneo. View the city’s Spanish and Moroccan monuments such the Hermitage of San Antonio and Our Lady Africa. The cruise excursion with Princess Cruises takes 2.5 hours and costs $119 US per person.
Tetouan – This tour takes passengers across the border into Morocco, therefore a passport is required. Passengers can take a narrated drive that explores the Medina, the old Jewish quarter and the bazaar. The tour with Princess Cruises includes a Moroccan lunch accompanied by music and folk dances. The tour costs $199 and lasts 7.5 hours.
Cruise ships dock at the Ceuta cruise port which is located about 100 yards from the city center. It is an easy city to get around and passengers can explore Ceuta independently or book an organized cruise excursion through their ship.
Renee Ruggero - Renee is a published travel writer and cruise industry insider with more than 1,000 days on cruise ships, visiting over 50 countries.
