GNV to Operate Two Latest-Generation Ferries on Morocco Route
GNV, the ferry company of the MSC Group and historic partner of Morocco, has announced the operation of its two latest-generation units, GNV Aurora and GNV Virgo, on the Morocco route starting from summer 2026. GNV Aurora will be in service from June 1st, and GNV Virgo from July 1st, both on the Genoa - Barcelona - Tanger Med line, the reference maritime corridor between Europe and Morocco, as part of the Operation Marhaba 2026.
New Ferries, New Era
These new ships, among the most advanced in the GNV fleet, mark a new stage in the company's technological and environmental renewal process, thanks to liquefied natural gas (LNG) propulsion and solutions designed to improve efficiency, comfort, and operational sustainability.
Cooperation and Partnership
The launch of operations was made possible by joint work with Moroccan authorities and the Tanger Med port management. This recognition of Tanger Med's growing role as a logistics hub in the Mediterranean and its ongoing evolution reflects the solidity of the cooperation built over time between GNV and the Kingdom of Morocco, based on continuous technical and institutional dialogue and a shared vision of maritime link development between the two shores.
Strategic Partnership
Morocco occupies a central place in GNV's strategy. The company has been present in the country for over 15 years and considers this presence a long-term commitment to the country, its institutions, and its citizens worldwide. The operation of these two new ships on the Morocco route for Operation Marhaba is not only an operational choice but also a concrete confirmation of this vision. This means making the best available resources - the most modern, safest, and most sustainable - available to Morocco to accompany the summer return of millions of Moroccans living abroad with an unprecedented level of quality, comfort, and reliability.
Quote from Matteo Catani, General Manager of GNV
"Morocco is a strategic and long-term partner for GNV. Making two new ships available for Marhaba means contributing concretely to the quality of service offered to Moroccan citizens worldwide and supporting the development of a modern and efficient maritime transport system. This result is the fruit of a relationship built over time, alongside our historic partner Mohammed Kabbaj, whose local anchorage and ability to serve as a bridge with the Kingdom's institutions have made possible a mutual trust that translates into concrete actions today."
Local Presence and Investment
The coordination of operations on the territory will be ensured by Carole Montarsolo, the new General Manager of GNV Morocco, confirming the company's investment in strengthening its local presence. Alongside her, Mohammed Kabbaj will continue to represent a fundamental point of reference for maintaining institutional and commercial relations in the country.
Sustainability and Energy Transition
GNV Aurora and GNV Virgo are among the most advanced ships in the Mediterranean in terms of environmental sustainability. Both are powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), a solution that allows for a reduction of CO₂ emissions of up to 50% per transported unit compared to previous-generation ships. The adoption of LNG is today one of the most concrete and measurable steps in the energy transition of maritime transport.
Onboard Technology
On board GNV Aurora, cold ironing technology is also operational: during stops, the ship connects to the electrical network at the quay and shuts off its generators, completely eliminating direct CO₂, nitrogen oxide, and sulfur emissions in the port area. A direct benefit for air quality and communities living near ports.
Ship Specifications
GNV Aurora, which will be in service from June 1st, has a gross tonnage of approximately 53,000 tons, a length of 218 meters, a width of 29.60 meters, and a maximum navigation speed of 25 knots. It can accommodate over 1,700 passengers in 426 cabins and transport up to 2,780 linear meters of freight. GNV Virgo, which will be in service from July 1st, has the same technical characteristics, offering equivalent capacity and service standards.
Partner in the Service of the Kingdom's Development
The operation of these new ships is part of the vast process of infrastructure, logistics, and economic development undertaken by the Kingdom of Morocco as part of its Vision 2030, reinforced by investments related to the organization of the 2030 FIFA World Cup. In this context, GNV positions itself as a strategic maritime infrastructure at the service of the Kingdom: not only a ferry operator but an active partner in connectivity, citizen mobility, and economic development between the two shores of the Mediterranean.
Inauguration of GNV Aurora
The company also announces that on June 1st, the baptism of the new ship GNV Aurora will take place in Tanger, in the presence of Moroccan and international authorities, partners, institutions, clients, and media. A symbolic moment that confirms and strengthens the link between GNV and the Kingdom of Morocco.
