328Likes
![Reply](https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/images/buttons/reply.gif) |
|
![Old](https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/images/statusicon/post_old.gif)
7 Apr 2020
|
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Mar 2020
Posts: 10
|
|
Hi Levelo,
When we were contacted by the British Embassy, they also provided a document which was a request to allow transit which we were suppose to take to the local gendarmerie who would then issue us with a Moroccan one. What happened was, the local gendarmerie printed the British Embassy transit off and gave it to us, refusing to issue anything else or even stamp it. We decided that would be enough and the campsite owner agreed, suggesting that when we got nearer Marrakesh we could try getting a Moroccan permit, but as we had no trouble, we didn't bother. When they see it's a foreigner, they just waved us through. One thing to note is that the local police may not know about more boats - they only know that the border is closed - so you may have to be quite insistent that you are going to get a boat. Proof (reservation) would help but as I say we weren't seriously challenged anywhere.
Yes, we went over Tichka and straight up via motorways. NB: we went round Marrakesh on the new ring road to the East (shown on the OSM map) - the first section is almost a track and there was a left turn to 'Casablanca' signposted which we ignored so I thought we'd perhaps made a mistake but it was perfect (and missed any potential checks nearer the city).
We were given the impression there would be more ferries but nothing concrete, and that they (Balearic) would be looking to get the numbers before committing.
Hope that helps. Good luck with your friend.
|
![Old](https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/images/statusicon/post_old.gif)
7 Apr 2020
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2012
Posts: 245
|
|
Thanks Ray.
You've answered my questions thoroughly.
Beside the German Ambassador were there any other diplomatic staff at the harbour ( British ? French ? ).
Just wondering if the French were as organized as the Germans and the Brits with this.
My friend is old and not so tech savvy, unfortunately.
|
![Old](https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/images/statusicon/post_old.gif)
7 Apr 2020
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: Somewhere
Posts: 1,474
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by levelo
I see.
But ferries could bypass Spain altogether just like the last one, couldn't they ?
|
yes they could but at a huge price increase, if the last one wasn't full then it was probably too expensive for many. I know the lot in the campsite here all said its far too expensive when we all have tickets from Morocco to Spain already paid for.
It costs me about 1000 return from the UK to Morocco and back on average so spending 1200+ to France isn't an option. Best in the current situation is for Spain to reopen Ceuta for EU citizens to leave that way, luckily as the UK hasn't left yet we still get treated the same (something the Brexit bridgade didn't think about in 2016 ![doh](https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/images/smilies/doh.gif) )
Last edited by TheWarden; 7 Apr 2020 at 20:27.
|
![Old](https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/images/statusicon/post_old.gif)
7 Apr 2020
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2012
Posts: 245
|
|
I hear you.
But the way I see it these 2 crossings were hastily organized for those who really had to go home and who didn't want to risk being stranded in Morocco for ages.
Expensive yes, but who knows when the normal, cheaper routes ( i.e to Spain ) will reopen.
I know quite a few folks who had to buy expensive new, last minute air tickets to get home despite of the fact that they already had one.
Hopefully Spain will reallow ferries soon.
|
![Old](https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/images/statusicon/post_old.gif)
18 Apr 2020
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: Somewhere
Posts: 1,474
|
|
So today the government announced the state of emergency would be extended until the 20th May.
Rumours of GNV ferries running to Genoa at normal prices and not the rip off price Balearia gave for the Sete ferry a few weeks ago.
Despite the GNV ferries being publicised on German, French and Swiss embassy site the UK crowd have done nothing, zero communication from them in over 14days, really quite shocking performance from them.
|
![Old](https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/images/statusicon/post_old.gif)
18 Apr 2020
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2012
Posts: 245
|
|
Yes, just heard myself too.
I am not that surprised that the lockdown has been extended.
When are the ferries scheduled ?
Time to get out probably.
|
![Old](https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/images/statusicon/post_old.gif)
18 Apr 2020
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: Somewhere
Posts: 1,474
|
|
I think the first is Tuesday and then one on the 5th or so. But there are slightly vague statements that the sailings depend on the Moroccans giving permission (although surely they'd prefer to get tourists out of the country?).
On GNV's website I can book a ticket for tanger to Barcelona for 200euros at almost anytime but not so sure they will run.
|
![Old](https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/images/statusicon/post_old.gif)
20 Apr 2020
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: Somewhere
Posts: 1,474
|
|
Announcement from the German embassy today saying they expect air space to reopen on the 31st May and ferries about the same time.
The UK Ambassador emailed some people, but not every one registered with them, a very self congratulatory message stating they had repatriated all UK Nationals but some who decided to stay have now changed their minds, needless to say that hasn't gone down terribly well with people who have been trying for over a month to get some info or action out of them.
Last edited by TheWarden; 20 Apr 2020 at 22:52.
|
![Old](https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/images/statusicon/post_old.gif)
20 Apr 2020
|
![Chris Scott's Avatar](https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/customavatars/avatar10468_1.gif) |
Super Moderator
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jun 2000
Posts: 4,844
|
|
Good news.
One hopes Morocco's quick response has paid off.
Is there any news on when roads might reopen - I presume on that date or sooner.
|
![Old](https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/images/statusicon/post_old.gif)
20 Apr 2020
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: Somewhere
Posts: 1,474
|
|
Hopefully it has, still just over 2000 cases and under 200 deaths, Ramadan could send things either way though.
Extended state of emergency ends on the 20th May, so hopefully travel in country will open up a bit then if things don't get worse before hand
|
![Old](https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/images/statusicon/post_old.gif)
21 Apr 2020
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: Somewhere
Posts: 1,474
|
|
As Morocco extends it state of emergency they are getting tougher on people ignoring the rules
Main takeaways are:
The hours of store opening remain the same,each district
Your Caid/Wali’s of each area can decide what is appropriate in terms of travelling and the distance
You must have your permit to leave the house, be wearing a mask and have some ID with you (passport or your CIN number if you are a resident)
Security services will start tracking of motor-vehicles all over Morocco
Only necessary outings are allowed (Buying produce, medication, visits to medical professionals.
Failure to comply can lead to arrests and fines.
One important note is that the DGSN are now tracking vehicle movements across the country to enforce the restrictions and in some areas drones are being used in this process.
|
![Old](https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/images/statusicon/post_old.gif)
25 Apr 2020
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2012
Posts: 245
|
|
Hey there,
Any news ? Any ferries scheduled in the coming days ?
Ramadan probably doesn't help...
L.
|
![Old](https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/images/statusicon/post_old.gif)
25 Apr 2020
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: Somewhere
Posts: 1,474
|
|
No news, a GNV ferry left last week but we spoke to them directly and they said no ferries until after the lock down finishes but then 7 hours later one left Tanger Med with passengers.
Recently there has been a bit of to and fro between Morocco and Spain, with Soain blaming Morocco for the border closures (when it was Spain who closed Ceuta). A couple of Spanish news outlets reporting that Morocco won't open Ceuta or Mellila until October as an attempt to make things difficult. personally I think its BS from the Spanish
|
![Old](https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/images/statusicon/post_old.gif)
26 Apr 2020
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2012
Posts: 245
|
|
Thanks.
So 2 ferries left Tanger Med last week ?
Headed for Genoa ?
L.
|
Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 3 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 3 guests)
|
|
Posting Rules
|
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
HTML code is Off
|
|
|
|
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...
2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.
"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)
![Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance.](/stuff/ripcord/ripcord-logo-250.jpg)
Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.
Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.
Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!
What others say about HU...
"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia
"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK
"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia
"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA
"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada
"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa
"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia
"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany
Lots more comments here!
![Five books by Graham Field!](/stuff/grahamfield/graham-field-2021-280.jpg)
Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook
"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.
Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!
New to Horizons Unlimited?
New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!
Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.
Read more about Grant & Susan's story
Membership - help keep us going!
Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.
You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.
|
|
|