Sailing to Casablanca: A Day Trip to Magical Marrakesh
Friday, 10 October 2025
Sailing into Casablanca is already an adventure — the Atlantic breeze, the whitewashed skyline, and the knowledge that just beyond lies one of the world’s most captivating cities. Marrakesh, Morocco’s famed Red City, is only a few hours inland, making it the perfect day trip from your Ambassador cruise. With its bustling souks, vibrant squares and Moorish architecture, Marrakesh offers an intoxicating mix of history and culture that stays with you long after you’ve left.
The Journey from Casablanca
From Casablanca’s bustling port, a guided excursion will take you inland towards Marrakesh. Along the way, you’ll pass olive groves, farmland and views of the Atlas Mountains rising in the distance. Within three hours, you’ll find yourself stepping into a city that feels like a living storybook.
Jemaa el-Fnaa: The Beating Heart of Marrakesh
No visit to Marrakesh is complete without stepping into the world-famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square. By day, it’s filled with juice stalls, musicians and storytellers. By night, it transforms into an open-air restaurant with sizzling grills, glowing lanterns and the hum of Moroccan life.
Must-See: Snake charmers, acrobats, and market traders.
Don’t Miss: Freshly squeezed orange juice from one of the many stalls.
Evening Magic: The square comes alive after sunset — a feast for all the senses.
The Souks: A Labyrinth of Colour
The souks of Marrakesh are legendary — a maze of narrow alleys where artisans and traders have worked for centuries. From handwoven rugs to brass lanterns, leather goods to fragrant spices, the souks are a paradise for shoppers and explorers alike.
Must-See: Souk Semmarine, the main artery of the markets.
Don’t Miss: Spices piled high in every shade of red, gold and green.
Top Tip: Bargaining is part of the fun — and tradition.
Majorelle Garden: An Oasis of Calm
After the bustle of the souks, step into the tranquillity of the Majorelle Garden. Once owned by designer Yves Saint Laurent, this botanical paradise is famous for its vivid cobalt-blue buildings, exotic plants and peaceful pathways.
Must-See: The iconic blue villa, now housing a museum of Berber art.
Don’t Miss: Shady palm groves and lily-covered pools, perfect for a quiet stroll.
Spring Extra: In spring, the garden bursts with blossoms against its signature blue walls.
Koutoubia Mosque: An Icon of Marrakesh
The Koutoubia Mosque dominates Marrakesh’s skyline with its elegant minaret, visible for miles around. Built in the 12th century, it remains a masterpiece of Almohad architecture.
Must-See: The 70-metre-high minaret, especially beautiful at sunset.
Don’t Miss: The gardens around the mosque, filled with roses and orange trees.
Note: Non-Muslim visitors cannot enter the mosque itself, but the exterior is a wonder to admire.
A Day to Remember
Marrakesh is a city of contrasts — vibrant yet serene, ancient yet timeless. From the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa to the calm of Majorelle Garden, every corner reveals something new. And at the end of the day, you’ll return to the comfort of your Ambassador ship in Casablanca, with memories of Morocco that will last a lifetime.
Why Cruise with Ambassador?
At Ambassador, we believe every journey should combine discovery with ease. That’s why our cruises sail direct from the UK, giving you the freedom of no-fly travel to explore destinations as diverse as Morocco, Iceland, and the Caribbean. Whether you’re joining us for a spring escape, planning ahead for 2026 or 2027, or making the most of our latest deals, you’ll find carefully crafted itineraries that bring the world closer. Step aboard and experience affordable quality and the warmest welcome at sea with Ambassador.
