A search and rescue operation is ongoing in the Caribbean following the disappearance of two sailboats transporting humanitarian supplies from Mexico to Cuba.

The Mexican Navy confirmed it has deployed naval teams and military search aircraft to locate the vessels, Friendship and Tigger Moth, which were carrying at least nine crew members. The boats were expected to arrive in Havana on Tuesday or Wednesday, but authorities say there has been no communication from them and no confirmation of their arrival.

According to officials, the vessels departed Isla Mujeres in Mexico’s Quintana Roo state on 20 March. The navy stated that it is utilising all available resources to locate the boats and ensure the safety of those on board.

The missing crew members, who are nationals of Poland, France, Cuba and the United States, were described as experienced sailors. A spokesperson for the convoy noted that both boats were equipped with appropriate safety systems and signalling equipment, expressing confidence in the crews’ ability to complete the journey safely. Mexican authorities have also established contact with maritime rescue coordination centres and diplomatic representatives from the crew members’ home countries.

There has been no official comment from the Cuban government regarding the missing vessels.

The incident comes amid heightened humanitarian efforts to support Cuba, where volunteers and non-governmental organisations have been leading aid deliveries in recent months. Earlier in the week, another vessel successfully arrived in Cuba carrying 14 tonnes of supplies, including solar panels, medicines, baby formula, bicycles and food. The boat, named “Granma 2.0” in reference to the historic vessel used by Fidel Castro during the Cuban Revolution, was warmly received by Cuban authorities.

Cuba has increasingly relied on humanitarian shipments from Mexico as it faces mounting economic challenges, including widespread power outages linked to fuel shortages. The situation has been worsened by a US fuel embargo, which has disrupted energy supplies and contributed to significant shortages across the country. The United Nations has warned of severe impacts, including the cancellation of more than 50,000 surgeries due to electricity constraints.

Tensions surrounding Cuba’s situation have also intensified in recent months. The United States has increased pressure on the island, particularly following developments involving Venezuela, a key ally that had previously supplied Cuba with oil. Meanwhile, discussions between the US and Cuba are said to be in their early stages, even as Cuban officials insist that the country’s political system remains non-negotiable.

As search efforts continue, authorities remain hopeful that the missing vessels and their crews will be located safely. (Arise News)

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