Morocco Ferries: Improved Compensation for MREs

Ferries to Morocco: enhanced compensation for MREs in the event of an accident

Morocco has taken a legal step forward with the publication in the Official Bulletin of Law 62.24. It approves the 2002 Protocol to the Athens Convention on the Carriage of Passengers and their Luggage by Sea. A dahir dated 28 July 2026 promulgates this text, paving the way for the Kingdom's accession to a more protective international regime.

In concrete terms, the liability limits change. In the event of death or injury caused by a maritime accident, the carrier's liability may reach 250,000 Special Drawing Rights (SDRs), or approximately €295,000 at the current rate per passenger. It may rise to 400,000 SDRs, or €473,000, where the damage is greater, unless the carrier proves the absence of fault or negligence. Shipping companies must also hold insurance or a financial guarantee covering at least 250,000 SDRs per passenger.

Carried goods are also covered. Liability may extend up to 12,700 SDRs for a vehicle, including luggage left inside. Cabin luggage is covered up to 2,250 SDRs and other luggage up to 3,375 SDRs. For MREs travelling to Morocco by ferry with their car and personal belongings, these provisions directly address the main risks of the crossing.

These new rules are not, however, automatically applicable to all Moroccan ferries yet. Following the approval published in the Official Bulletin, Morocco must still deposit its instrument of ratification or accession with the International Maritime Organization. The Protocol then provides for a three-month period before it enters into force for the new State Party.

Passengers embarking from the European Union, notably from Spain or France, already benefit from a European regime largely based on the Athens Convention. Morocco's accession should chiefly integrate the Kingdom directly into this international system and extend its protection to situations falling within its maritime jurisdiction. As of 6 July 2026, the Protocol had thirty-four States Parties, including France, Spain, Belgium and the Netherlands. Morocco was not yet among them.

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