The Algeciras Port Authority (APBA) has launched a special operation for the Operation Passage Strait (OPE) 2026 at the ports of Algeciras and Tarifa. Shipping companies will offer a maximum of 77 ships per day during peak periods. This operation represents an investment of over 2.2 million euros by the APBA, which will deploy 750 workers, in addition to reinforcing the Port Police and a new guidance service for the Entry Exit System (EES), the European system for non-EU travelers without residency.
In addition to personnel, the APBA has provided 7,000 pre-boarding spots, 30 restroom modules, and 6,000 square meters of shade to improve the waiting experience for users. Water distribution on hotter days and intensified cleaning services are also included.
The most significant novelty for OPE 2026 is the reorganization of internal flows within the port areas due to the entry into force of the EES in the European Union. Vehicles of non-EU passengers without residency will be directed to control kiosks for biometric data verification before boarding. This project, costing the APBA 14 million euros, is co-financed by the EU.
The weekends of August 1st and 2nd are identified as critical for the outbound journey, while the return peak will occur during the last week of August. Travelers are advised to arrive at the port on the day for which their ticket was purchased in advance, and not earlier. In Tarifa, vehicle access is permitted two hours before departure, and in Algeciras, the APBA will open the residents' lane every weekend from Friday afternoon until Monday.
The APBA also offers the Passajero app in Spanish, English, and French for real-time information on ship schedules, boarding status, and assigned berths. This communication channel complements the APBA's social media and the digital information panels at the maritime stations.
As a new feature, the APBA is incorporating an automated camera system for real-time vehicle counting and plot occupancy, covering from the port entrances to the Llano Amarillo plots.
