HAVANA, Cuba — Missing Cuba aid boats that triggered an international search operation have been confirmed safe after reaching Havana, ending fears for nine crew members aboard a humanitarian mission in the Caribbean.
The two sailboats, part of the “Nuestra America Convoy,” departed Isla Mujeres in Mexico’s Quintana Roo state last week carrying food, medicine, and essential supplies bound for Cuba. They were expected to arrive between March 24 and 25 but failed to make contact, prompting Mexican authorities to initiate a search-and-rescue operation.
Search effort expands after missing Cuba aid boats miss arrival window
Mexican naval officials said the vessels went silent en route, with no confirmed arrival in Havana within the expected timeframe. The boats were carrying nine crew members of different nationalities, heightening concern and prompting coordination across several countries.
Authorities established contact with maritime rescue coordination centers in the United States, Cuba, France, and Poland, as well as diplomatic representatives tied to those on board.
The convoy was part of a broader grassroots effort to deliver humanitarian assistance to Cuba, where ongoing fuel shortages and economic strain have contributed to widespread power outages. The mission also unfolded amid scrutiny of CARICOM’s delayed aid response to Cuba.
Volunteers had loaded the boats with rice, beans, baby formula, medicine, and hygiene products before departure.
A third vessel in the same convoy successfully arrived in Havana earlier in the week, underscoring uncertainty surrounding the two missing boats.
Convoy organizers said the crews were experienced sailors and that both vessels were equipped with safety and signaling systems, expressing confidence in their ability to complete the journey.
Relief grows as missing Cuba aid boats complete humanitarian voyage
The uncertainty ended Friday when the United States Coast Guard confirmed it had received a report that both vessels had safely transited to Cuba.
Earlier, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel had publicly expressed concern over the missing boats, stating that authorities were doing everything possible to locate and assist those on board.
The aid mission, organized by Progressive International, involved participants from dozens of countries aiming to deliver critical supplies and highlight conditions on the island.
The safe arrival of the vessels brings relief to families and organizers while underscoring the risks tied to humanitarian voyages across the Caribbean, particularly as regional economic and energy pressures continue to shape such efforts.
