Dakhla’s cruise port stretches out on an Atlantic peninsula in Western Sahara, and you can get there easily via the N1 highway or through Dakhla Airport.
For other Call in Morocco Cruise Ship Ports of Calls check out our Cruise Ship Ports of Call in Morocco page.
This up-and-coming port boasts a massive 3,000-meter main breakwater with cruise-specific facilities. Docking is a breeze, and you can grab real-time traffic updates by scanning QR codes around the terminal.
The port links Africa’s hefty $3.4T market to worldwide shipping routes and is currently getting a $1.2 billion facelift set to wrap up by 2028.
Check out how this rising star is shaking up international cruise itineraries.
Map of Dakhla Cruise Ship Port
Location and Accessibility of Dakhla Port
Dakhla Port sits on a skinny Atlantic peninsula in Western Sahara, working as the main shipping hub for the area at roughly 23.7131° N, 15.9347° W. The Atlantic Ocean stretches out to the west, while the calm Bay of Dakhla lies to the east.
You’ll find the port about 550 km south of Laayoune and 1,200 km southwest of Marrakech. There’s no train service, but you can hop on the N1 highway that runs up to Morocco. Need to fly in? Dakhla Airport is just 25 km away. One nice perk – the naturally deep bay doesn’t need much dredging to keep ships coming in.
Port Infrastructure and Maritime Facilities
Dakhla’s prime Atlantic spot is great, but it’s the growing port that’s really turning this coastal gem into a serious maritime player.
Get ready to check out some cool facilities built with visitors like you in mind. The port’s about a quarter finished now, featuring a massive 3,000-meter main breakwater and an 850-meter secondary one with some cutting-edge armor blocks that really keep things protected.
Drop by after 2029 and you’ll get to use a trade quay that handles ships with 12-meter drafts, plus a dedicated fishing area. The whole 82-hectare setup will have everything you need in one place, making your cruise stop hassle-free at this $616 million waterfront showstopper.
Economic Significance and Strategic Importance
Economic Significance and Strategic Importance
Dakhla’s new port is a game-changer – not just a fancy upgrade but a complete transformation that’s turning this coastal spot into an economic powerhouse way beyond its fish business.
Visit and you’ll see why locals earn triple what the average Moroccan makes, with the port pumping even more money into the area. This isn’t just another harbor – it’s a crucial gateway linking Africa’s massive $3.4T market to worldwide shipping lanes.
For Sahel countries, this port is a lifesaver, cutting their export costs by 20-30%. And with green hydrogen projects popping up nearby, you’re looking at a hub that’s growing the economy while actually helping the environment. The place is booming but doing it smartly.
Cruise Ship Traffic and Scheduling Information
Dakhla is still pretty new to the cruise scene, but more and more ships are starting to include this up-and-coming spot in their routes. The port uses a solid tracking system that keeps tabs on up to 600 vessels at once, which helps make your arrival smooth.
You’ll find good docking facilities built just for visiting cruise ships, with the setup to handle both bulk cargo and containers when needed. Want to see what’s happening in the harbor right now? Just scan the port’s QR code for an easy mobile view of current traffic. There’s also a detailed database with specs on all the ships currently docked.
See what’s on offer from the Port of Al Hoceima for a different Call in Morocco Cruise Ship Ports of Call.
Future Development Projects and Expansions
Dakhla’s port is getting a major facelift, turning into one of Africa’s most ambitious maritime projects. Morocco is pouring a whopping 12.65 billion dirhams (about 1.2 billion euros) into making this happen. By 2028, you’ll step into a world-class cruise spot that’s built with sustainability in mind.
The big plans include:
- Seven specialized docks going as deep as -16 meters, so even the biggest cruise ships can pull up
- A massive 1,000-hectare economic zone packed with business and industrial spaces
- A green hydrogen hub powered by renewable energy
- Better connections through a planned route via Mauritania, linking you to the buzzing markets in the Sahel region
Frequently Asked Questions
What Shore Excursions Are Available for Cruise Passengers in Dakhla?
There’s a bunch of cool stuff to do when your ship docks in Dakhla! Jump on a catamaran to spot some flamingos, try your hand at kitesurfing (it’s a blast!), bump along the desert in a 4×4, hop on a camel for a ride, check out the local villages to soak up the culture, or just go with a private tour that’s all about whatever you guys want to do. Plenty of options to make your stop memorable.
Are There Duty-Free Shopping Opportunities at Dakhla Cruise Port?
Looking for tax-free goodies while in paradise? Sorry to burst your bubble! There’s no duty-free shopping at Dakhla port. You’ll have to settle for local treasures instead. And those duty-free shops on your cruise ship? They only work when you’re sailing international waters, not while you’re hanging out at the dock.
What Languages Are Commonly Spoken by Port Staff?
Port staff mostly speak Arabic and French, though plenty of them know English too, which makes things easier for visitors. You’ll also run into some who can handle Spanish and Portuguese, so you shouldn’t have much trouble getting your point across while you’re there.
Is Wi-Fi Available for Cruise Passengers at the Port?
You’ll probably find some spotty Wi-Fi at the port. It’s hit or miss honestly – sometimes you can catch signals from nearby hotels. Smart move is to pack a portable hotspot or just plan on using your ship’s internet as a backup plan if you really need to stay connected.
What Local Cuisine Specialties Can Visitors Try Near the Port?
Hungry for some authentic local eats? Right near the port, you can dig into amazing seafood – the fish chermoula is killer and the grilled octopus is seriously worth trying. If you’re feeling adventurous, grab some briouates or try the special Dakhla-style camel dishes that locals can’t get enough of!
Thinking about something different? Check out the cruises leaving from Laâyoune (El Aaiún) Cruise Ship Port.
