Motril–Melilla Ferry Route Sees Rise in Cargo and Passenger Traffic
The Motril–Melilla ferry route records rising cargo and passenger traffic, strengthening the port of Motril’s role in Costa Tropical.
The Motril–Melilla ferry route is recording a notable increase in both cargo transport and passenger numbers, reinforcing the port of Motril’s growing role as a strategic maritime link between mainland Spain and North Africa.
Port authorities in Motril confirmed that traffic on the Motril–Melilla ferry route has strengthened over recent months, with higher freight volumes and steady passenger demand compared to the same period last year. The upward trend reflects renewed commercial activity between Granada Province and the autonomous city of Melilla, as well as stable travel flows among residents, business operators and seasonal visitors.
Cargo Volumes Drive Commercial Growth
The port of Motril has long positioned itself as a logistics gateway for Andalusia, particularly for agricultural exports and essential goods. Increased cargo movement on the Motril–Melilla ferry route signals stronger trade exchange across the Alboran Sea.
According to port data released this week, freight transport has grown steadily since late 2025, with lorries carrying food products, construction materials and retail goods accounting for a significant share of shipments. The port’s infrastructure improvements in recent years, including expanded loading areas and more efficient boarding systems, have contributed to smoother operations.
For businesses in Costa Tropical and across Granada Province, the ferry connection remains a reliable alternative to larger ports in Andalusia. Shorter waiting times and competitive operating costs continue to attract logistics companies seeking efficiency.
Passenger Numbers Also Climb
Beyond freight, passenger traffic on the Motril–Melilla ferry route has also increased. Families, workers and students regularly travel between the two cities, while tourism adds seasonal peaks during holiday periods.
Local tourism operators in Costa Tropical suggest that improved scheduling and vessel capacity have helped maintain stable occupancy rates. The route is particularly important for Melilla residents with family or professional ties in mainland Spain, many of whom prefer Motril due to its direct motorway connections via the A-7.
The port’s proximity to Almuñécar and Salobreña further strengthens its position, offering travellers convenient access to coastal destinations in Granada Province.
Strategic Importance for Costa Tropical
The Motril–Melilla ferry route plays a broader role in reinforcing Costa Tropical’s economic resilience. While much attention in Andalusia focuses on major ports such as Algeciras or Málaga, Motril continues to consolidate its niche as a mid-sized but efficient maritime hub.
Increased activity also benefits local employment, from port services to hospitality businesses that rely on traveller footfall. Restaurants, hotels and transport providers in Motril often see indirect gains from ferry-related traffic, particularly during high-demand periods.
Maritime connectivity remains a key component of regional development policy in Granada Province. Strengthening the Motril–Melilla ferry route aligns with ongoing efforts to diversify the local economy and reduce reliance solely on tourism.
With cargo volumes rising and passenger numbers holding firm, the route is demonstrating that Motril’s port is not merely a secondary terminal, but an increasingly important link between southern Spain and North Africa. For Costa Tropical, that connection carries both economic weight and long-term strategic value.
Ahmedabad