Anchorages on Morocco's Atlantic Coast

Atlantic swell, tidal bars, and mandatory port entry

Morocco's Atlantic coast demands respect: 1–3m ocean swell is present year-round (even in summer), tidal range reaches 3.5m south of Tangier, and bar entrances at Rabat and Moulay Bousselham are extremely dangerous below mid-tide or in any swell above 1m. Customs clearance is mandatory at an official port of entry — Tangier is the recommended first port. The afternoon Alize (NNE 15–22kt, May–Oct) makes southbound passages fast but return trips demanding. Time all coastal approaches and cove arrivals for daylight to avoid the predawn fishing fleet and their unlit nets.