Discover Tunisia by Boat: A Mediterranean Voyage Full of Culture, Beauty, and History
Discover Tunisia by Boat: A Mediterranean Voyage Full of Culture, Beauty, and History
Tunisia, a jewel on the southern shore of the Mediterranean, offers more than just sun-soaked beaches and ancient ruins—it’s also a dream destination for sailing lovers and boat travelers. With over 1,300 km of coastline, charming fishing ports, modern marinas, and direct access to Europe, Tunisia is ideal for those who wish to explore it by sea.

Whether you own a yacht, charter a sailboat, or hop on a ferry, Tunisia offers a unique blend of Mediterranean charm, Arabic culture, and Berber heritage—all reachable by boat.

🛥️ Arriving in Tunisia by Sea

🚢 Ferries from Europe

Several international ferry lines connect Tunisia to France and Italy, making it easy to reach by boat:

  • CTN (Compagnie Tunisienne de Navigation): Offers regular ferries from Marseille, Genoa, and Civitavecchia to La Goulette (Tunis).

  • Corsica Linea: Serves the Marseille–Tunis route with modern, comfortable ships.

  • Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV): Provides connections from Italy to Tunis, including Palermo and Naples.

These ferries are equipped to transport cars, motorhomes, and even motorcycles, making them perfect for long trips or road-and-sea adventures.

⛵ Best Marinas and Ports in Tunisia

1. Port Yasmine Hammamet

  • A luxury marina in the heart of Tunisia’s tourist capital.

  • Offers yacht services, restaurants, hotels, and shops nearby.

  • Ideal for those sailing the east coast.

2. La Goulette (Tunis)

  • Main port for ferries.

  • Close to Carthage, Sidi Bou Said, and the capital city Tunis.

  • Excellent for cultural trips and urban exploration.

3. Monastir Marina

  • A scenic port next to the historic Ribat of Monastir.

  • Great stop for those visiting Sousse, Mahdia, or the Sahel region.

4. Djerba Port (Houmt Souk)

  • Gateway to the enchanting island of Djerba.

  • A mix of traditional charm and modern marina facilities.

5. Bizerte Marina

  • Located in northern Tunisia, it’s a great first or last stop before heading to Europe.

  • Surrounded by French colonial architecture and fishing life.

🌊 What to Do in Tunisia as a Boat Traveler

🕌 Explore Ancient Cities and UNESCO Sites

  • Carthage: Ancient Roman ruins near Tunis.

  • El Jem: The Colosseum of Africa.

  • Kairouan: Spiritual capital of Tunisia.

  • Dougga: The best-preserved Roman city in North Africa.

🏖️ Relax on Pristine Beaches

  • Mahdia, Kelibia, and Djerba offer turquoise waters and white sand.

  • Many hidden coves and wild beaches are accessible only by boat.

🍽️ Enjoy Local Cuisine

  • Try fresh seafood, couscous, brik (crispy pastry), and harissa.

  • Visit medinas for local markets and handmade souvenirs.

🐬 Go Diving or Snorkeling

  • Dive spots in Tabarka and Hammamet.

  • Explore reefs, caves, and historic shipwrecks.

🚤 Boat Charters and Rentals

Don’t have your own boat? No problem. Tunisia has many options for renting or chartering:

  • Yacht rental companies in Hammamet, Tunis, and Monastir.

  • Excursions and catamaran tours available in Djerba and Sousse.

  • Choose from half-day trips to full multi-day cruises with a skipper.

🇹🇳 Tips for Boaters Visiting Tunisia

  • Visa & Customs: Most European travelers can enter visa-free for 90 days. You’ll need to clear customs upon arrival.

  • Currency: Tunisian Dinar (TND); cash is king, but cards are accepted in many tourist areas.

  • Weather: Best sailing season is from April to October—warm, dry, and sunny.

  • Local Etiquette: Tunisia is welcoming and hospitable, but modest clothing is recommended outside the beach.

🌍 Why Choose Tunisia for Your Next Sailing Trip?

  • Strategic location between Europe and Africa.

  • Affordable marinas and travel costs.

  • Warm, sunny weather and safe ports.

  • Rich blend of Mediterranean beauty and African soul.

⚓ Conclusion

Whether you're sailing across the Mediterranean or just dreaming of a coastal escape, Tunisia offers a wonderful mix of sea adventures, historical exploration, and warm hospitality. From the port of La Goulette to the islands of Kerkennah and Djerba, visiting Tunisia by boat is not only possible—it’s magical.

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