The Sète – Algiers ferry crossing takes about 26 hours with GNV, from about €199 per foot passenger (one way, low season), with about 2 sailings a week. It is the only direct France – Algeria link outside Marseille. Complete guide: prices, schedules, documents, vehicle and alternatives.
The crossing in one table
| Criterion | Detail |
|---|---|
| Company | GNV (Grandi Navi Veloci) |
| Duration | ~26 h (1 night on board) |
| Frequency | ~2 sailings/week (more in summer) |
| Foot passenger | from ~€199 one way (low season) |
| Car + cabin | up to ~€1,300 (high season) |
| Departure port | Sète, Quai d'Alger / Orsetti terminal |
| Arrival port | Algiers, ferry terminal (city centre) |
Why choose Sète over Marseille?
Sète is 30 minutes from Montpellier, right on the A9 motorway — the natural route for travellers coming from the west (Toulouse, Bordeaux, Spain) or the Paris–Clermont–Béziers axis. Marseille (Algérie Ferries, Corsica Linea, ~20 to 24 h at sea) has more frequencies; Sète wins on simplicity — a smaller port with faster boarding. On board GNV: cabins, restaurants, kids' areas.
The journey, hour by hour
- H−3: check-in at the port of Sète (Orsetti terminal). With a vehicle, allow extra time: customs checks + loading.
- H0: departure. Settle into your cabin (recommended for 26 h) or seat.
- Day 2: arrival in Algiers in the late afternoon/evening depending on the schedule. Passport checks + D10 customs declaration for the vehicle on arrival.
The essential documents
- Passport valid 6+ months — an ID card is NOT enough for Algeria;
- Visa depending on your nationality (French-Algerian dual nationals are exempt with an Algerian passport);
- Vehicle: registration in the driver's name, valid licence, green card insurance covering Algeria, D10 form (temporary vehicle admission);
- Ticket and booking confirmation (paper or mobile).
Full details in our documents FAQ.
What it really costs (and how to pay less)
| Profile | Low season | High season (Jul-Aug) |
|---|---|---|
| Foot passenger (seat) | ~€199 | ~€300–400 |
| 2 adults + cabin | ~€450–550 | ~€700–900 |
| Car + 2 pax + cabin | ~€600–800 | ~€1,100–1,300 |
Three levers: book from March-April (−30 to 40%), avoid 15 July–15 August, and compare with departures from Spain — Valencia–Algiers or Almería–Oran cost ~€120 on foot if the road detour doesn't bother you.
Alternatives to Sète – Algiers
- Marseille – Algiers: Algérie Ferries and Corsica Linea, ~20 to 24 h, more frequencies.
- Valencia / Almería → Oran, Algiers, Mostaganem, Ghazaouet: 8 to 14 h at sea, from ~€120 — see all Algeria routes.
- To western Algeria (Oran): go via Spain, much shorter.
Compare schedules and book the Sète – Algiers crossing on Bladia — payment in 4 interest-free instalments from €500 and ANCV holiday vouchers accepted. Indicative early-2026 fares.