Port authorities in Algeciras reassured the public on Friday, July 4, that the Strait Crossing Operation (OPE) is proceeding smoothly, despite a ferry collision with quay 2 of the port. According to local media, the incident, which occurred on Thursday evening, has not disrupted the operation launched on the Spanish side on June 15, in coordination with Morocco's Marhaba 2025. While operations at the affected docking point were temporarily suspended, four other stations remained active to ensure normal ferry traffic. The collision occurred shortly before 9 p.m. when the ferry AF CLAUDIA, chartered by Africa Morocco Line (AML) to support OPE 2025, struck two fenders at mooring station no. 2 of the passenger terminal. Reports indicate that the vessel was «preparing to dock» when the accident happened. The impact destroyed the fenders and damaged the boarding bridge, though no injuries were reported. As a safety precaution, the port authority suspended use of the station until the damaged fenders are replaced and thorough inspections are conducted on both the quay and the boarding bridge. The AF CLAUDIA, an Italian-flagged Ropax ferry built in 2001, measures 186 meters in length and has been operating three daily crossings on the Algeciras–Tanger Med route since Sunday. Maritime traffic between the two ports, as well as other port operations, have continued without interruption.
