According to Dutch radio, the group Women on Waves had announced that the ship would dock in Smir on Oct.4, but Moroccan warships blocked its entrance.
The organization later said it had secretly sent a small yacht to Smir several days earlier in apparent anticipation of a blockade by Moroccan officials of its larger vessel.
David Del Fresno y Torrecillas, a Spanish commentator who's followed the actions of the group, said the goal of the organization – founded by Rebecca Gomperts – is to dock in countries where abortion is illegal and bring women out to international waters to provide abortion services.
He noted that the group receives strong support from international entities such as Hiyos, a Dutch non-governmental organization that promotes abortion. Hiyos receives funding mainly from multilateral organizations such as the European Union, the Ford Foundation and the Dutch National Lottery.
Del Fresno y Torrecillas added Women on Waves has openly expressed opposition towards the Catholic Church in numerous documents and statements.