Dakar-Gorée ferry: The Autonomous Port of Dakar digitizes its tickets

Buying tickets online and accessing the dock via a QR code: the Autonomous Port of Dakar (PAD) launched the digitalization of ticketing for the Dakar-Gorée maritime link on Thursday, October 29, 2026. With the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games (YOG) approaching, this innovation aims to eliminate queues, enhance security, and support tourism on the island of remembrance.

There's no longer any need to queue at the ferry terminal to buy a ticket. With the new digital system, passengers and visitors can purchase their tickets online and simply present their QR code when boarding. This major development aims to simplify the crossing and streamline passenger flow, especially during peak times.

For the CEO of the Port Authority of Douala (PAD), this digitalization marks a decisive step in the modernization of maritime transport infrastructure. "Through an application and our QR code, it should be possible to book and order tickets remotely," he explains. The system should also facilitate the precise monitoring of passenger flows and traceability, thus addressing a crucial security concern.

Gorée hopes for a strong economic impact

For the islanders, who rely daily on this vital link for territorial continuity, the stakes are just as high. The mayor of Gorée, Augustin Senghor, welcomes "a major qualitative and positive change," highlighting the end of the constraints of long waiting times at the ferry terminal.

Beyond the comfort it offers travelers, this innovation promises to boost the local economy. According to the island's mayor, many visitors previously abandoned their trips due to the endless queues in Dakar. A smoother crossing should therefore stimulate tourism and maximize the financial benefits for Gorée's artisans, guides, and merchants.

“The more tourists who cross in good conditions, the better the local economy of Gorée will be,” stressed Augustin Senghor, recalling that tourism is the economic lifeblood of the island.

On the eve of the start of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, the Autonomous Port of Dakar is relying on digital transformation to offer an optimal experience to visitors from all over the world and strengthen the attractiveness of the Gorée heritage.