Cadiz Ferry

Where is the Port of Cádiz?

The Port of Cádiz is located in Andalusia in south-western Spain, next to the mouth of the Guadalete River. Its strategic location makes it one of the main seaports in the south of the peninsula and a key point for ferry connections to the Canary Islands.

Port contact details

• Information telephone number: +34 956 240 800
• Official website: puertoCádiz.com

How to get to the Port of Cádiz?

The Port of Cádiz has excellent road, public transport and rail connections, making it easy to reach both from the city itself and from other towns in Andalusia. Its location next to the historic centre means it can be easily reached by car, taxi or even on foot:

• By car: You can access the port via the A-4 motorway (from Seville and Madrid) or the AP-4, following the signs to ‘Puerto / Muelle de Cádiz’. There are public and private car parks in the vicinity of the ferry terminal.
• By taxi: Local taxis offer a direct service to the port entrance. The journey from the centre of Cádiz or the train station only takes about 5 minutes.
• By bus: Several city bus routes connect the port with different areas of the city, with stops nearby on Avenida del Puerto and Plaza de Sevilla.
• By train: Cádiz train station is located directly opposite the port, less than 200 metres from the terminal, which can be reached on foot in a few minutes.
• On foot: Thanks to its proximity to the old town, you can easily walk there from central locations such as Plaza de España, the Cathedral or Paseo Canalejas.
• By motorbike or bicycle: The port has designated areas for parking motorbikes and bicycles, as well as being connected to the promenade and the cycle lanes in the city centre.

From the airport: The nearest airport is Jerez de la Frontera (about 45 km away). From there, you can reach the port by car or taxi (about 35-40 minutes) or by train to Cádiz and walk from the station.

Arriving in Cádiz by ferry: how to leave the port

If you arrive by ferry at the Port of Cádiz, getting to the city centre or continuing your journey is very easy. The port is located next to the historic centre of Cádiz, just a few minutes' walk from the train station and bus terminal. You'll find taxis outside the arrivals area, as well as city buses that connect to the main points of the city. You can also opt for a private transfer or hire a car to explore the province or travel to other Andalusian towns.

• Taxi: there's a taxi rank just outside the port; the journey to the historic centre or the train station takes less than 5 minutes.
• On foot: the centre of Cádiz is only a few minutes' walk away, with direct access to Paseo Canalejas and Plaza de España.
• City bus: several city bus lines have stops near the port, making it easy to travel to different parts of the city.
• Train and intercity buses: the train station and bus terminal are located opposite the port, in Plaza de Sevilla, with connections to cities such as Seville, Jerez and El Puerto de Santa María.
• Private transfers or car hire: available by prior reservation or at offices near the maritime terminal, ideal if you plan to explore the Cádiz coast or the Atlantic beaches.

Terminals at the Port of Cádiz

The Port of Cádiz has a modern and functional terminal for ferry routes connecting the south of the Iberian Peninsula with the Canary Islands. Thanks to its infrastructure and convenient location, it allows for quick embarkation and disembarkation for both passengers and vehicles.

Ferry terminal

• Cádiz Maritime Station: This is the port's main passenger terminal and is located on the Marqués de Comillas Quay, very close to the historic centre and the railway station. Naviera Armas ferries operate from here, with regular routes to Arrecife (Lanzarote), Las Palmas (Gran Canaria), Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Santa Cruz de La Palma and Puerto del Rosario (Fuerteventura).

Cruise terminals

• Cruise area of the Port of Cádiz: The port also has docks equipped for tourist cruises, close to the ferry terminal. These facilities regularly receive international stopovers, but are not used for regular passenger crossings to the Canary Islands.

The terminal assigned for your embarkation or arrival will be indicated on your ticket or booking confirmation. We recommend arriving well in advance and following the port signs or the instructions of Naviera Armas staff for a comfortable and smooth embarkation.

Ferry operators and routes in the Port of Cádiz

The company currently operating routes from the Port of Cádiz is Naviera Armas. This shipping company connects the south of the Iberian Peninsula with the Canary Islands, offering regular, well-equipped crossings for both passengers and vehicles. Ferries departing from Cádiz reach the main islands of the archipelago, allowing you to travel comfortably with your car, caravan or pet.

Popular ferry routes from the Port of Cádiz

• Cádiz - Arrecife (Lanzarote) ferry: one of the most popular routes to the Canary Islands. The crossing takes around 26 to 31 hours and offers a comfortable journey with cabins, a restaurant and rest areas.
• Cádiz - Las Palmas (Gran Canaria) ferry: direct connection between the mainland and Gran Canaria, with a duration of approximately 38 to 40 hours. This is an ideal option for those travelling by car or who wish to enjoy the  journey to the islands.
• Cádiz - Santa Cruz de Tenerife ferry: strategic route with weekly departures, lasting around 41 to 43 hours. The ferries have spacious common areas, cabins, a restaurant and on-board services for a comfortable journey.
• Cádiz - Santa Cruz de La Palma ferry: connection to one of the greenest islands in the archipelago, with an average duration of 50 to 55 hours, ideal for those looking for a longer and more relaxed crossing.
• Cádiz - Puerto del Rosario (Fuerteventura) ferry: route connecting Andalusia with Fuerteventura in approximately 36 to 38 hours, with one or two weekly departures depending on the season.

If you want to get to the Port of Cádiz from the Canary Islands, check here for all ferry crossings to Cádiz.

Important: Timetables and frequencies may vary depending on the season or weather conditions in the Atlantic. We recommend using our search engine to check availability, prices and updated timetables before booking your trip.

Services available at the Port of Cádiz

The Port of Cádiz offers a range of services designed to improve the experience of passengers embarking or disembarking on routes to the Canary Islands. Its terminal is equipped with facilities for the comfort of travellers, accompanying persons and vehicle transport. The main services available at the port include:

• Ticket offices and customer service desks for the operating shipping companies
• Air-conditioned waiting rooms and transit areas
• Cafeteria and vending machines
• Services adapted for people with reduced mobility
• Public toilets and rest areas for passengers
• Free Wi-Fi in designated areas within the terminal
• Public and private car parks in the vicinity of the port
• Information points on routes, local transport and connections to other means of transport
• Car rental offices and auxiliary services nearby

Commitment to sustainability

The Port of Cádiz is committed to an increasingly environmentally friendly operating model, promoting measures that reduce emissions and improve the energy efficiency of its facilities.

• Participation in port decarbonisation and electrification initiatives to reduce the carbon footprint.
• Use of materials with a lower environmental impact in new construction and infrastructure improvements.
• Implementation of more efficient energy systems in terminals and service areas.
• Institutional commitment to continue moving towards a ‘greener’ port.
• If you want to travel responsibly, we recommend reading our article on sustainable ferry travel.

Real-time departures and arrivals

Before heading to the port, we recommend checking the status of your ferry from Cádiz to find out about any possible schedule changes or weather incidents. You can do this directly through our app or on the Direct Ferries website, where you can also track your journey in real time and receive notifications about your boarding. For more information, see our article on how to track your ferry from the port to your final destination.

Parking at the Port of Cádiz

If you are travelling in your own vehicle or accompanying someone to the Port of Cádiz, there are several parking options near the terminal. Although there isn't a large car park available, the port does have public car parks, secure areas and spaces in the centre, making it easy to leave your car and walk to the terminal.
 

Note: Parking availability near the Port of Cádiz may vary during peak season or on busy days. We recommend arriving well in advance and, if possible, booking a space in advance for greater convenience.

Practical tips for boarding a ferry from Cádiz

Boarding a ferry from the Port of Cádiz to the Canary Islands is a stress-free process. The crossings are long, so it is advisable to plan ahead and follow some practical tips to make your experience as comfortable as possible. Whether you are travelling with your vehicle or as a foot passenger, follow these recommendations before boarding:

• Arrive early: Arrive at the terminal at least 90 minutes in advance if you are travelling with a car and 60 minutes in advance if you are boarding without a vehicle. During high season or for departures to several islands, it is advisable to arrive even earlier.
• Documentation: Have your printed or digital ticket, your identity card or passport and, if travelling with a vehicle, the car's documentation (registration and insurance) to hand. If you are travelling with pets, check the requirements of Naviera Armas before boarding.
• Luggage and belongings: During the crossing, you will not be allowed to access your vehicle, so take everything you need with you on board (documentation, medication, chargers, personal items, etc.). Ferries to the Canary Islands can take between 28 and 55 hours, depending on the destination.
• Boarder control: All passengers must pass through an identity and security check before boarding the ship. Follow the instructions of the port and the shipping company staff to speed up the process.
• Travelling with a vehicle: Boarding is organised by order and type of vehicle. Prepare your documentation in advance, keep your lights off and follow the staff's instructions when accessing the ferry's hold.
• Comfort during the crossing: For a long journey, book a cabin in advance if possible. Ferries have a restaurant, café, rest areas and an outdoor deck.

Extra tip: At Direct Ferries, we recommend checking departure times and terminals in advance, as they may vary depending on Naviera Armas or Atlantic weather conditions.

Accessibility at the Port of Cádiz

The Port of Cádiz has implemented various measures to improve the accessibility of its facilities and ensure comfortable and safe transit for all passengers. The Port Authority is working on the progressive adaptation of buildings and boarding areas, incorporating ramps, handrails, clear signage and adapted access for people with reduced mobility.

The passenger terminals have basic accessible services, such as adapted toilets and boarding bridges with reduced slopes. If you require special assistance during boarding or disembarking, we recommend contacting Naviera Armas before your trip.

Security at the Port of Cádiz

The Port of Cádiz complies with national and international port security regulations, applying strict protocols in accordance with the ISPS Code (International Ship and Port Facility Security). The Port Authority has a Port Protection Plan and specialised personnel responsible for supervising compliance with control and prevention measures.

• Controlled access and verification in embarkation and disembarkation areas.
• Industrial safety protocols to prevent accidents and ensure safe operations on the premises.
• Presence of surveillance and control personnel at access points and public transit areas.
• Coordination of emergencies and action plans in the event of incidents or operational risks.

Tip: do not leave valuables visible in your vehicle and always keep your belongings under supervision, especially during embarkation and disembarkation.

Where to eat near the Port of Cádiz

If you arrive early at the Port of Cádiz or have just disembarked from your ferry to the Canary Islands, you will find excellent dining options just a few steps from the terminal. The port area and the historic centre are full of bars, taverns and restaurants where you can sample authentic Cádiz and Andalusian cuisine.

• Paseo Canalejas and Muelle Alfonso XIII: Very close to the port, you will find terraces and restaurants with sea views offering fresh fish, seafood and typical tapas from the bay. It is an ideal area to grab a bite to eat before boarding.
• Barrio del Pópulo: Less than a 10-minute walk away, this is the oldest neighbourhood in Cádiz and one of the liveliest areas for tapas. Here you can try local specialities such as shrimp tortillas or marinated dogfish.
• Central Market: About a 15-minute walk from the port, it offers stalls selling fresh produce and bars where you can sample tapas, fish and seafood in a local atmosphere.
• Paseo Marítimo: If you have more time, you can head to the seafront promenade, where there are plenty of beach bars and restaurants facing the Atlantic, perfect for enjoying the sun and sea breeze all year round.

If you are looking for a gastronomic or relaxing getaway in the south, we recommend reading our article on winter sun getaways in Spain, with perfect ideas for enjoying the good weather in Cádiz.

Quick guide to Cádiz: what to see near the port

The Port of Cádiz is just a few minutes from the historic centre, allowing you to make the most of your time before or after boarding to discover the city. Here's some of the most interesting places you can visit near to the port:

• Cádiz Cathedral: The emblem of the city, visible from the port. Its golden dome and tower offer stunning views of the old town and the bay.
• Barrio del Pópulo: Located next to the port, it is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Europe, full of history, narrow streets and charming bars.
• Plaza de San Juan de Dios: Just a few minutes' walk away, this is the heart of the city, surrounded by historic buildings, terraces and cafés.
• Roman Theatre: An important archaeological site discovered next to El Pópulo, which can be visited free of charge.
• Playa de Santa María del Mar: About a 20-minute walk from the port, this is one of the closest beaches to the centre, perfect for relaxing before or after your crossing.
• Paseo Canalejas: Ideal for walking by the sea, enjoying the views of the port and watching the ferries come and go.