Alicante port broadens its horizons with a new merchandise route that connects the Mediterranean hub to Egypt and is managed by Romeu & Cía. The current service does not limit itself to one country; it makes stops in Genoa, Italy, and Misurata, Libya, before arriving in Alexandria. Additional routes are under negotiation with North Africa and some sub-Saharan nations, signaling plans to extend farther still.
Led by its new president, Luis Rodríguez, the Port Authority aims to boost both freight and passenger traffic to strengthen the port’s economic impact at every level. The initial step in this broader strategy was the launch of a direct line to Egypt following extensive preparations for the new service.
Of particular note is the ro-ro line, short for roll on-roll off. This method allows a transport vehicle, like a truck, to be driven directly aboard a ship and off at its destination. The inaugural voyage from Alicante was warmly received, with 61 moving units loaded, including tractor heads and trailers, marking a strong start for the service.
From the Port Authority emphasizes that this new line not only links Alicante to Egypt but also opens the door to Italy and Libya through calls at Genoa and Misurata before finally arriving at the Egyptian city of Alexandria. For the moment, service is monthly, with expectations that frequency will grow as demand for maritime transport increases.
The shipping company Romeu & Cía, a Tarragona-based firm with offices in North America, Africa, and Europe, including Alicante, manages the new service. The company specializes in ship consignments and currently represents several carriers in Argelia, Argentina, Morocco, Mexico, Portugal, Tunisia, and Spain. In addition to regular shipping, Romeu & Cía also has substantial activity in ferries, as well as in oil, gas, and offshore platforms.
The new route enhances Alicante’s potential, expanding beyond its traditional destinations of the Canary Islands and Argelia. The relationship with Argelia was strained due to a diplomatic crisis but has gradually improved, aiding the port’s rebound. Last year, 162,000 passengers boarded ferries to or from the port, an increase of 36,200 from the prior year. Vehicle traffic aboard passenger ferries rose to 41,432 units, up by 9,613 vehicles.
Norte de África
Looking ahead, the port president envisions adding more lines. He explained that several fronts are currently open, with discussions expected to bear fruit in the near term. The focus remains on securing a new link with North Africa and potentially extending that objective to a sub-Saharan partner. Specific details are still being negotiated as talks progress.
In parallel, the rising regional tensions in the eastern Mediterranean influence port planning. Shipping lines are reorganizing routes toward the western Mediterranean, and Alicante seeks to capitalize on this shift while strengthening its role as a logistics hub for the province. The Port Authority continues outreach to local industries to position the port as a prime platform for moving goods. A crucial part of this strategy is closer integration with the Mediterranean Corridor, which would also drive the construction of a robust intermodal terminal within the port precinct.
With a long-range view, the authorities plan interoceanic ambitions toward Iberian-American ports. Luis Rodríguez has highlighted that the changes planned for dock 19 would support these goals. Should it be necessary, dredging work could be undertaken to accommodate larger ships and deeper drafts.
Ultimately, the port’s strategy centers on expanding intermodal connectivity, improving cargo handling, and strengthening trade routes across the Atlantic and beyond. By aligning with broader European transport corridors and regional partners, Alicante aims to solidify its position as a dynamic gateway for goods and travelers alike.
Concluding, the port continues to push for sustained growth by fostering collaborative projects with regional industries and exploring new maritime links. The emphasis remains on efficiency, reliability, and strategic expansion to support a thriving maritime economy for the province and its communities.