Casablanca
Casablanca, Morocco is a city of captivating contrasts, where the bustling energy of a modern metropolis meets the rich cultural tapestry of an ancient kingdom. It is Morocco's largest city and economic hub, and for many, it's an evocative blend of more new than old, with an old heart that is home to narrow, winding alleys, vibrant bazaars, and traditional medinas. As a cruise port, Casablanca is a gateway to the country's famous Imperial Cities and a fantastic destination for those who want to experience the blend of French colonial and traditional Moorish styles.
⛵ Port Introduction
Your cruise ship will dock at the Port of Casablanca, a massive artificial harbor that is primarily an industrial and cargo port. Your ship will dock directly at a pier, so no tender is required. However, for safety and security reasons, due to its status as an active commercial port, passengers are not permitted to walk freely within the port. A shuttle bus service, which may be provided by the port or your cruise line, is required to take you from the gangway to the cruise terminal building.
⚓ Terminal Information
The Casablanca Cruise Terminal is a permanent building with basic amenities. It is a reception point for cruise passengers, and it is where you will go through customs and other essential maritime operations. The terminal can accommodate ships up to 350 meters long and has an annual capacity to handle over 400,000 tourists.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
The terminal itself is relatively basic. You'll find restrooms and a small welcome area. You may find some local vendors selling souvenirs, and there is a taxi rank located just outside the port exit. There is no free Wi-Fi at the cruise terminal, but you may be able to find a connection at a nearby cafe or restaurant.
🗣️ Language
The official languages of Morocco are Arabic and Berber, but French is widely spoken and is the language of commerce and education. English is spoken in the main tourist areas, but not as universally as in other countries. It is a good idea to have a few basic phrases in Arabic or French on hand.
A few useful phrases:
As-salamu alaykum (as-sa-lah-mu ah-lay-koom) - Hello
Shukran (shook-ran) - Thank you
Afwan (af-wan) - You're welcome
Inshallah (in-shah-lah) - "God willing," a common phrase
Bslama (bi-slah-mah) - Goodbye
💰 Money
The official currency of Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). It is a "closed currency," which means it can only be bought once you arrive in Morocco. It is illegal to take Dirhams out of the country. It is recommended to exchange your money upon arrival at a bank or in the city. While some vendors may accept U.S. Dollars or Euros, it is best to pay in Dirhams to get the best exchange rate and avoid confusion. Credit cards are widely accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, cash is essential for smaller purchases, taxis, and for haggling in the markets.
🚗 Transportation
To get from the cruise port to the main city of Casablanca, you have a few options:
Shuttle Bus: The port provides a shuttle bus that takes you from the gangway to the terminal building. Your cruise line may also offer a shuttle to the city center.
Taxis: Taxis are available at the port exit. The "petit taxi," which is a small red taxi, is the most common. It is crucial to agree on the price with the driver before you get in, as they do not always use a meter.
Train: The train is a great way to get to other cities like Rabat or Marrakech. The Casablanca Port train station is about a 2-kilometer walk from the port exit.
Trams: Casablanca has a new tram system that is a very affordable and reliable way to get around the city.
♿ Accessibility
Casablanca has an accessibility rating of 3 out of 10. While the cruise port has been recently revamped and has some accessible features, the city's historic areas, with their narrow, winding streets and uneven surfaces, can be a challenge. The city's public transportation system is still a work in progress in terms of accessibility.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town
The best way to get to the city center from the cruise port is to take a taxi. It is a short and easy ride that will drop you off in the heart of the city, where you can then explore on foot.
🚽 Toilet
Public toilets are not very common in Casablanca. Your best bet is to use the restrooms in the cruise terminals, or in cafes and restaurants. Be aware that some places may charge a small fee.
💊 Drugstore
Pharmacie: There are many pharmacies in Casablanca, and you will find one on the main streets in the city center.
Pharmacie de l'Opéra: Avenue des Forces Armées Royales, Casablanca, Morocco. This is a central location in the city.
✨ Authentic Experience
Dine on Local Moroccan Cuisine and Mint Tea: For a taste of the city's unique culinary scene, seek out a local restaurant and try some traditional Moroccan dishes, such as tagine, a slow-cooked stew, or couscous, a staple of Moroccan cuisine. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional glass of mint tea, a sign of hospitality.
Walk the Old Medina and the Habous Quarter: The Old Medina is a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets. For a taste of the city's unique charm, get lost in the maze of streets. The Habous Quarter is a charming neighborhood of French and Moorish architecture, with a variety of small, independent shops and cafes.
Visit the Hassan II Mosque: The Hassan II Mosque is one of the most stunning and magnificent mosques in the world. It is the only mosque in Morocco that is open to non-Muslims, and it is a must-see. The mosque is built on a promontory overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, and its minaret is the tallest in the world.
Download Port Guide
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