Casablanca Cruise Ship Port Guide

Casablanca’s cruise port is located at the commercial Port of Casablanca, approximately 3 kilometers from the city center. The terminal offers basic facilities including currency exchange and tourist information. Hassan II Mosque, one of the world’s largest mosques, is the main attraction. Taxis and organized tours provide transportation to downtown attractions, medinas, and Rick’s Café. Passengers should allow time for port procedures.

Quick Facts

Detail	Information
Port Name	Port de Casablanca (Casablanca Cruise Terminal)
Distance to City Center	~3 km (10-15 min by taxi)
Walking to Town	Not recommended (industrial area)
Local Currency	Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
Taxi Type	Red (metered) or White (larger/negotiated)
Typical Taxi Fare to Center	100-250 MAD (~10-25 EUR)
Port Facilities	Currency exchange, tourist info, coach parking

Want to know more about cruise ship ports of call in Morocco?

Where is The Port Located?

Cruise ships dock at the Port de Casablanca, the main commercial harbour on Morocco’s Atlantic coast. A brand-new cruise terminal opened in September and operations are now managed by Global Ports Holding, which means you’ll find proper boarding bridges, streamlined customs, and a dedicated coach parking area for 44 buses.

The terminal can accommodate ships up to 350 meters in length, with a 650-meter landing quay and three gangways (one fixed, two mobile). It’s designed to handle around 450,000 passengers annually, so expect efficient processing even on busy turnaround days. The modernized facilities include a unified administrative building consolidating customs, port authority, and operator services – a significant improvement from the old setup.

Getting Around From The Port

The new terminal has made transfers much more straightforward, but you still need to know your options before you disembark.

Port Shuttle

Reports indicate a free shuttle service runs from the cruise terminal to the city center, typically dropping passengers near United Nations Square. This is easily your best bet if it’s confirmed by your cruise line on the day. Check with guest services or the port information desk as you disembark, because schedules can vary depending on the number of ships in port and passenger volume. If your ship offers this, grab it: it’s free, it’s official, and it drops you at a central point where taxis, cafés, and the main sights are all within reach.

Taxis

Taxis queue right outside the port gates. You’ll see two types:

• Red taxis (petits taxis): Small cars, usually with a roof light and a meter. They’re meant to use the meter within city limits, but many drivers will try to negotiate a flat rate with cruise passengers. A typical fare from the port to United Nations Square or the Hassan II Mosque should be around 100-150 MAD (roughly 10-15 EUR). Insist on the meter if you want to keep things honest, or agree a price before you get in.
• White taxis (grands taxis): Larger vehicles, often shared or hired for longer trips. These don’t use meters and you’ll negotiate a flat fare. Expect to pay 150-250 MAD (15-25 EUR) for a return trip to downtown and back, or a half-day hire.

What to do if a driver refuses the meter: Simply say “Non, merci” and walk to the next taxi. There are plenty of them. If you’re in a group, splitting a white taxi for a fixed price can actually work out cheaper per person than individual red taxis.

Visual ID: Official red taxis have a cream or beige body with a red roof and a lit roof sign. White taxis are typically Mercedes-Benz sedans or similar, painted white with minimal markings. Both should have a visible taxi license plate and a driver ID card displayed on the dashboard. Avoid unmarked cars or anyone who approaches you on foot offering a “special taxi deal.”

Walking

Honestly, don’t bother. The port zone is industrial, with heavy lorry traffic, limited pavements, and no shade. The 3-kilometer walk to the city center would take 35-40 minutes in the heat, navigating truck routes and port access roads. It’s neither pleasant nor particularly safe. Save your energy for exploring the medina and the Hassan II Mosque once you’re in town. If you do plan to do any walking around the city center once you arrive, make sure you’ve got comfortable footwear – the cobblestones and uneven pavements in the medina can be brutal on your feet. Women’s walking shoes | Men’s walking shoes.

Tours and Other Transport

Many cruise lines offer official shore excursions that pick you up directly at the terminal. Tour operators with proper credentials are allowed into the port area, and you’ll board air-conditioned coaches that take you to the Hassan II Mosque, the old medina, Rick’s Café, or further afield to places like Rabat. If you’ve pre-booked a private tour, the operator will meet you at the port exit with a sign. Make sure you have their contact details and confirm the meeting point in advance.

You can also use ride-hailing apps like Careem if you have local data or Wi-Fi, though availability at the port gates can be hit-or-miss. If the app works, it’s a solid way to lock in a fixed price and avoid haggling.

Safety Tips and Avoiding Scams

Casablanca is generally safe for cruise passengers who stick to the main tourist areas, but like any major port city, there are opportunists who target visitors. Here’s what to watch for and how to handle it without losing your cool.

Fake Guides (Faux Guides)

You’ll often be approached by young men offering to “help” you find the medina, the Hassan II Mosque, or Rick’s Café. They’ll seem friendly and knowledgeable, but they’re working for commission from carpet shops, spice stalls, and leather goods vendors. After an hour of being steered to overpriced tourist traps, they’ll demand a hefty “guide fee” – sometimes 200-500 MAD or more.

How to spot the real deal: Legitimate guides carry an official accreditation badge issued by the Moroccan Ministry of Tourism. Ask to see it. If they don’t have one, they’re not official.

How to avoid: Book a guide through your ship, a reputable tour company, or a hotel concierge. If approached unsolicited at the port or medina entrance, a firm “La, shukran” (No, thank you) usually does the trick. Don’t engage in conversation or accept “just five minutes of help” because that’s the foot in the door.

Taxi Scams

The broken meter: A classic. The driver claims the meter is broken and quotes you an inflated flat fare, often 300-500 MAD for a short hop that should cost 100-150 MAD.

Refusing to use the meter: Some drivers simply won’t turn it on, gambling that tourists won’t push back.

Overcharging tourists: Drivers size you up based on your clothes, luggage, and camera gear, then quote multiples of the real fare.

Solution: Know the approximate fare (port to city center: 100-150 MAD). Insist the driver uses the meter before you get in. If they refuse, thank them and walk to the next taxi. There are always more taxis. If you do agree a flat fare, confirm it clearly before you start and have the exact change ready.

“Helpful Stranger” Scam

Someone approaches at the port exit or near the Hassan II Mosque, offering to carry your bag, show you a shortcut, or take a photo of your group. After the “help,” they demand a large payment – sometimes 100-200 MAD or more.

How to handle it: Politely decline any unsolicited help. If someone has already grabbed your bag or started “guiding” you, stop immediately, say “La, shukran,” and take your bag back. Don’t feel obliged to pay for something you didn’t request.

Vendor Pressure and Overpricing

In the medina and souks, vendors can be very persistent. Opening prices are often inflated by a factor of five to ten, especially if you look like a cruise passenger (read: camera, shorts, ship lanyard). You’re expected to haggle, but the starting point can be absurdly high.

Haggling reality: If a vendor opens at 500 MAD for a leather bag, a reasonable final price might be 100-150 MAD. Start at about one-third of their first offer and be prepared to walk away. Walking away is the most powerful negotiating tool you have, and vendors will often call you back with a better price.

Commission shops: If a “helpful guide” or taxi driver insists on taking you to a specific shop, you’re probably being steered to a place that pays them commission. Prices there will be higher to cover the kickback. Shop independently or return to places you’ve researched.

Pickpocketing

Crowded areas like the old medina, the Habous Quarter, and busy markets around the Central Market are prime spots for pickpockets. They work in pairs or small groups, often during peak times like midday prayer when streets are extra crowded.

Target items: Phones in back pockets, cameras slung loosely over one shoulder, wallets in open bags, passports in outside pockets.

Prevention tips:

• Use a cross-body bag with a zipper, worn to the front in crowds. An anti-theft crossbody bag with slash-proof straps and RFID-blocking pockets is ideal for keeping your valuables secure.
• Keep your phone and wallet in front pockets or an inside jacket pocket.
• Don’t display expensive jewelry, watches, or multiple cameras.
• Leave your passport and extra cash in the ship’s safe; carry only what you need for the day.
• Stay alert when someone bumps into you or creates a distraction (spilled drink, dropped item, etc.).

Location-Specific Scams

Drug-related police scams: This is rare but worth knowing. In some Moroccan cities, a “helpful stranger” offers to sell you something (often hashish), then a plainclothes “police officer” appears and demands a bribe to avoid arrest. It’s a setup. If approached by anyone offering drugs, simply walk away. If someone claims to be police, ask to see official ID and insist on going to a police station if there’s an issue.

Restaurant bill padding: At tourist-focused restaurants, especially near Rick’s Café or the Corniche, check your bill carefully. Extra drinks, bread, or service charges can mysteriously appear.

Credit card skimming: Use cash for small purchases and street vendors. If you do pay by card, keep the card in sight and check your statement afterward for unauthorized charges.

Emergency Contacts

• Police: 19
• Tourist Police (Brigade Touristique): +212 5222-79127
• Ambulance (SAMU): 15 or 141
• Fire: 15
• Port Emergency: Contact your ship’s guest services or the terminal information desk
• Major Hospital: CHU Ibn Rochd, +212 5222-22828

Important: Save your cruise ship’s emergency contact number in your phone before you go ashore. If you get separated from your group or miss the all-aboard time, that’s your lifeline.

Money Matters

The local currency is the Moroccan dirham (MAD). One important thing to know: you generally can’t buy dirhams before you arrive in Morocco. The dirham is a closed currency, meaning it’s not freely traded outside the country. You’ll need to exchange cash or withdraw from an ATM once you’re in Casablanca.

Where to exchange: The cruise terminal has a currency exchange desk, but rates can be less favorable than in town. If you have time, use an ATM at a major bank (Attijariwafa Bank, BMCE, Banque Populaire) near United Nations Square or the Hassan II Mosque. ATMs are generally safe and offer better rates than exchange bureaus. Avoid independent exchange shops in the medina unless you’re confident they’re legitimate, as some have been known to short-change tourists.

Card acceptance: Major hotels, upscale restaurants, and tourist attractions like Rick’s Café accept credit cards (Visa and Mastercard are most common). But the reality is that most local cafés, market stalls, taxi drivers, and small shops are cash-only. Don’t rely on your card for day-to-day purchases. Carry enough cash in small notes (20, 50, and 100 MAD denominations are ideal) for taxis, snacks, souvenirs, and tips. If you’re carrying cards, consider using an RFID-blocking wallet to protect against electronic pickpocketing in crowded areas.

Haggling strategy: Having small notes is crucial. If you’re bargaining in the medina and pull out a 500 MAD note, vendors will assume you’re flush with cash and adjust their prices accordingly. Small notes also make it easier to pay taxis the exact agreed fare without waiting for change that may never come.

Using euros or dollars: Some tourist-facing vendors and taxi drivers will accept euros or US dollars, but the exchange rate they offer will be terrible. You’ll lose 10-20% compared to paying in dirhams. Stick to local currency whenever possible.

Notify your bank: Before you travel, let your bank know you’ll be using your card in Morocco. Otherwise, they may flag foreign transactions as suspicious and freeze your account, leaving you stranded without access to cash.

What to See and Do

Casablanca isn’t Marrakech, and it doesn’t pretend to be. It’s a working port city with a business-first vibe, but there are some genuine highlights worth your time if you’re selective.

Hassan II Mosque

This is the big one, and rightly so. The Hassan II Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world, with a 210-meter minaret that you can see from the ship as you dock. The building sits partially over the Atlantic, with glass floors in the prayer hall that let you see the waves below. It’s one of the few mosques in Morocco that non-Muslims can enter, but only on a guided tour. Tours run several times a day (except Friday mornings during prayers), last about an hour, and cost around 130 MAD for adults. The tile work, carved cedar ceilings, and sheer scale are genuinely impressive. Book ahead if you can, or arrive early because tours fill up.

The mosque is about 3 kilometers from the port, a quick 10-minute taxi ride. When visiting, remember that shoulders and knees must be covered – if you need something lightweight to throw over your shoulders, a travel scarf is perfect and takes up hardly any space in your bag.

Rick’s Café

Yes, it’s a tourist trap. Yes, it’s based on a film that wasn’t even shot in Casablanca. And yes, you’ll probably still want to go. Rick’s Café was opened by a former American diplomat who recreated the bar from the 1942 film Casablanca, complete with a piano player and period decor. It’s charming in a kitschy sort of way, the cocktails are decent, and the food is fine (if overpriced). Expect to pay 200-300 MAD for a main course and a drink. It’s located in the old medina, about 15 minutes by taxi from the port. If you’re a fan of the film, it’s worth a quick stop for a drink and a photo. If you’re not, give it a miss and spend your time elsewhere.

The Old Medina

Casablanca’s medina is much smaller and less touristy than the ones in Tangier or Agadir. It’s a compact, walkable area near the port with narrow alleys, small shops, and local cafés. You’ll find spices, textiles, leather goods, and pottery, but the vibe is more everyday Moroccan life than polished tourist experience. Haggling is expected, and you can pick up some nice souvenirs if you’re patient. Allow an hour or two to wander, and keep an eye on your belongings in the crowds.

Habous Quarter (Nouvelle Médina)

This is a quieter, more organized alternative to the old medina. Built by the French in the 1930s, it blends traditional Moroccan architecture with colonial-era planning, so streets are wider and easier to navigate. It’s a good spot for souvenir shopping without the intense haggling pressure, and there are several cafés where you can sit down for mint tea and pastries. The Royal Palace is nearby (you can’t go inside, but the exterior and gardens are worth a look). The Habous Quarter is about 20 minutes by taxi from the port, or you can combine it with a stop at the Hassan II Mosque.

Corniche and Ain Diab

If you want to see modern Casablanca, head to the Corniche, the city’s beachfront promenade. It’s lined with restaurants, beach clubs, and upscale hotels, and it’s where locals go to relax at weekends. The beach itself isn’t spectacular, but the Atlantic views are pleasant and it’s a nice contrast to the older parts of the city. Ain Diab, the neighborhood along the Corniche, has some good seafood restaurants if you’re looking for lunch. It’s about 20-25 minutes from the port by taxi.

Time Management and All-Aboard Reminders

Casablanca is a city where you can easily lose track of time, especially if you get caught up haggling in the medina or lingering over lunch. Here’s a realistic breakdown of how long things take:

• Port to Hassan II Mosque: 10-15 minutes by taxi, plus 60-90 minutes for the tour and photos.
• Rick’s Café: 30-60 minutes for a drink or light meal (longer if you’re ordering a full lunch).
• Old Medina: 60-90 minutes to wander and shop.
• Habous Quarter: 45-60 minutes, plus travel time.
• Corniche/Ain Diab: Allow 1-2 hours if you’re stopping for lunch, plus 25 minutes each way by taxi.

Traffic in Casablanca can be unpredictable, especially around midday and late afternoon. If you’re planning an independent tour, build in an extra 30 minutes for your return journey to the port. Missing the ship because your taxi got stuck in traffic is not a story you want to tell.

Pro tip: Set an alarm on your phone for 90 minutes before your ship’s all-aboard time. That’s your signal to wrap up, settle any bills, and start heading back. If you’re in the medina or the Habous Quarter, finding a taxi can take 10-15 minutes, and then you’ve got the drive back plus time to get through port security. Don’t cut it too close.

Bonus Tips

• Dress modestly: Morocco is a Muslim country, and while Casablanca is cosmopolitan, covering your shoulders and knees (especially at the Hassan II Mosque and in the medina) shows respect and reduces unwanted attention.
• Language: Arabic and French are the main languages. English is spoken at major tourist sites and upscale hotels, but less so in taxis and local shops. A few words of French go a long way: “Bonjour” (hello), “Merci” (thank you), “Combien?” (how much?). “La, shukran” (no, thank you in Arabic) is your best friend for dealing with touts.
• Mint tea etiquette: If you’re offered mint tea in a shop, it’s part of the hospitality culture, not a hard-sell tactic (though you’re still expected to browse). You can accept without obligation, but if you’re not interested in shopping, politely decline.
• Photography: Always ask before taking photos of people, especially women and shopkeepers. Some may ask for a small tip if you photograph them or their stall. The Hassan II Mosque allows photos inside, but flash and tripods are usually not permitted.
• Tipping: In restaurants, 10% is standard if service isn’t included. For taxi drivers, rounding up to the nearest 10 or 20 MAD is appreciated but not required. For tour guides, 50-100 MAD per person is a fair tip for good service.
• Stay hydrated: Casablanca can be hot, especially if you’re visiting between May and September. Carry a bottle of water and wear sunscreen. You can buy bottled water at any shop for 5-10 MAD.
• Phone and data: If you need data for maps or ride-hailing apps, consider buying a local SIM card from a Maroc Telecom or Inwi shop near the port. A basic tourist SIM with a few GB of data costs around 50-100 MAD and can save you roaming charges.
• Visit other Moroccan ports: If you’re cruising the Moroccan coast, check out our guides to Tangier, Agadir, Safi, Nador, Al Hoceima, Dakhla, and Laayoune.
• Packing for Mediterranean cruises: If Casablanca is part of a broader Western Mediterranean or Eastern Mediterranean itinerary, think about layering: it can be warm during the day but cooler in the evening near the coast. Check out our cruise outfit ideas for women and first-time Mediterranean cruise tips for more practical advice. You might also enjoy our guide to Mediterranean cruise ports in Spain if your itinerary includes stops in Iberia.

Common Questions and FAQ

Is Casablanca safe for cruise passengers?

Yes, Casablanca is generally safe for cruise passengers who stay in the main tourist areas (Hassan II Mosque, old medina, Habous Quarter, Corniche). Violent crime against tourists is rare. The main risks are petty theft (pickpocketing in crowded areas) and scams (fake guides, taxi overcharging, aggressive vendors). Use common sense: keep valuables secure, agree on taxi fares in advance, decline unsolicited help, and stick to well-traveled routes. If you book an official shore excursion or pre-arrange a reputable guide, your risk is minimal.

Which port do cruise ships use?

Cruise ships dock at the Port de Casablanca, the main commercial harbor. A new dedicated cruise terminal opened recently, with modern facilities, boarding bridges, and coach parking. It’s about 3 kilometers from the city center and United Nations Square. Don’t confuse it with smaller fishing or cargo terminals elsewhere in the port complex; cruise passengers use the main terminal with the passenger facilities.

How much are taxis from the port?

A taxi from the port to the city center (United Nations Square or Hassan II Mosque) should cost around 100-150 MAD (approximately 10-15 EUR). Red taxis are metered but drivers often prefer to negotiate a flat fare with tourists. White taxis (larger vehicles) charge 150-250 MAD for a return trip or half-day hire. Always agree on the price before you get in, or insist the red taxi driver uses the meter. If they refuse, find another taxi.

Can I walk to the Hassan II Mosque from the port?

Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. The distance is about 3 kilometers, which would take 35-40 minutes on foot through an industrial port area with heavy traffic, limited pavements, and no shade. It’s neither pleasant nor particularly safe. Take a taxi (10-15 minutes, around 100-150 MAD) or use the free port shuttle if your cruise line offers it.

Do I need a tour or can I explore independently?

You can absolutely explore independently if you’re comfortable navigating a busy city and dealing with taxi drivers and vendors. Casablanca is less overwhelming than Marrakech, and the main sights (Hassan II Mosque, Rick’s Café, old medina) are easy to reach by taxi. That said, an official shore excursion or pre-booked private guide can save time, reduce stress, and provide context you might miss on your own. If it’s your first time in Morocco or you’re short on time, a tour is a safe bet. If you’re confident and enjoy exploring solo, taxis and a bit of preparation will serve you well.

What scams should I watch out for?

The most common scams are fake guides who steer you to commission shops and then demand large fees, taxi drivers who refuse to use the meter or claim it’s broken, and “helpful strangers” who offer unsolicited assistance and then demand payment. In the medina, vendors will dramatically inflate opening prices and pressure you to buy. Pickpockets operate in crowded areas like markets and the old medina. Avoid all of these by pre-booking transport, declining unsolicited help, insisting on metered taxi fares (or agreeing a price in advance), keeping valuables secure, and walking away from any deal that feels off. See the Safety Tips section above for detailed advice.

Can I use euros or US dollars in Casablanca?

Some tourist-facing businesses (hotels, upscale restaurants, souvenir shops) will accept euros or US dollars, but the exchange rate they offer is usually poor and you’ll pay 10-20% more than if you use Moroccan dirhams. Taxis, cafés, market stalls, and most local shops only accept dirhams. Withdraw cash from an ATM or exchange currency at the port or a bank in town, and carry enough small notes (20, 50, 100 MAD) for day-to-day purchases.

How long should I allow for the Hassan II Mosque?

Plan for 90 minutes to two hours total: 10-15 minutes by taxi from the port, 60 minutes for the guided tour (which is the only way to see the interior), and 15-30 minutes for photos and to admire the exterior and courtyard. Tours run several times a day except Friday mornings. If you arrive without a booking, you may have to wait for the next available tour, so factor that in. The mosque is well worth the time if you have a half-day in port.

Is there Wi-Fi at the port?

The new cruise terminal has some Wi-Fi available, but coverage and reliability can vary. If you need data for maps, ride-hailing apps, or staying in touch, consider buying a local SIM card (Maroc Telecom or Inwi shops near the port, around 50-100 MAD for a tourist SIM with a few GB) or arrange an international data plan with your home carrier before you arrive.

What’s the best way to spend a day in Casablanca?

If you have 6-8 hours in port, here’s a solid plan: Take a taxi or the port shuttle to the Hassan II Mosque (90 minutes including tour), then head to the old medina for a wander and some shopping (60-90 minutes). Stop at a local café for mint tea and pastries, then visit Rick’s Café for a drink and a photo if you’re a film fan (30-60 minutes). If you have extra time, the Habous Quarter is a pleasant, less chaotic place to browse for souvenirs. Head back to the port with at least 90 minutes to spare before all-aboard time. This gives you a good mix of history, culture, shopping, and a bit of Hollywood nostalgia without feeling rushed.

Essential Items for Your Day in Casablanca

Before you head out to explore Casablanca, make sure you’re properly equipped. The city requires a mix of urban walking, crowd navigation, and protection from the sun. Here’s what you’ll actually need:

Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable. Between the Hassan II Mosque, the medina’s cobblestones, and the uneven pavements around the Habous Quarter, your feet will thank you for proper footwear. Women’s walking shoes | Men’s walking shoes

An anti-theft backpack is essential given the pickpocketing risk in crowded areas like the old medina and Central Market. Look for one with slash-proof material and lockable zippers to keep your belongings secure while you’re navigating busy souks.

Your phone will drain quickly if you’re using maps, taking photos of the Hassan II Mosque, and checking the time. A portable phone charger ensures you won’t be left without navigation or your ship’s contact details when you need them most.

The Moroccan sun is intense, especially between May and September. Pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin, and a packable sun hat that you can stuff in your bag when you enter the mosque or shops.

Stay hydrated throughout the day. A collapsible water bottle takes up minimal space when empty and can be refilled at cafés or your ship.

Given the detailed pickpocketing warnings, consider additional security measures. An RFID passport holder protects your documents from electronic theft, while a hidden money belt keeps your emergency cash and backup cards completely out of sight under your clothing.

For visiting the Hassan II Mosque, remember that modest dress is required. A lightweight travel scarf can quickly cover shoulders if needed and doubles as sun protection or an extra layer for air-conditioned taxis.

Sunglasses are practical and protective. Women’s sunglasses | Men’s sunglasses

Personal Experience

When our cruise ship pulled into Casablanca, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. The port itself is about 3 kilometers from the city center, but getting there turned out to be pretty straightforward. Taxis were lined up right outside the port gates, and after a quick negotiation (always agree on the price before getting in!), we were on our way. The driver dropped us near the Hassan II Mosque, and honestly, seeing that massive structure perched right over the Atlantic was worth the trip alone. The intricate tile work and sheer scale of it are absolutely stunning. You can take a guided tour inside if you time it right, but even admiring it from the outside gives you a real sense of Moroccan craftsmanship.

After the mosque, we wandered through the old medina and grabbed some fresh mint tea at a local café. The vibe is much more relaxed than you might expect from a major port city, and people were genuinely friendly and helpful when we got a bit lost looking for the Habous Quarter. That area has wonderful little shops if you want to pick up souvenirs without the intense haggling of bigger markets. One tip: bring cash in dirhams because not everywhere takes cards, and ATMs near the port sometimes run out. We had about six hours total in port, which felt like just enough time to hit the main highlights without rushing too much. Just make sure to head back with plenty of buffer time – the traffic getting back to the port can be unpredictable.

  Last Updated: 14 December 2025