On March 28, 2026, two Mexican aid boats, named Friendship and Tiger Moth, were located northwest of Havana after disappearing at sea while on a critical mission to deliver humanitarian aid to Cuba. The boats had set sail from Isla Mujeres on March 21, carrying 2 tons of vital supplies, including food and medical resources, to assist the Cuban population amidst an ongoing economic crisis.
The Mexican Navy utilized aircraft to locate the sailboats approximately 80 nautical miles from Havana. Communication with the vessels had been lost, raising concerns about their safety. Fortunately, all nine crew members aboard were found to be in good health, and the boats are now continuing their journey to Havana.
The Our America Convoy, which had previously delivered 50 tonnes of aid to Cuba, including 14 tons of food and medicine, solar panels, and bicycles, has been instrumental in providing support to the island nation. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel had expressed concern over the disappearance of the boats, highlighting the urgency of the aid being delivered.
A spokesperson for the Our America Convoy stated, “The convoy continues its course to complete its mission: to deliver urgent humanitarian aid to the Cuban people.” This mission is particularly crucial as Cuba faces significant challenges, including a blackout affecting 10 million people due to a lack of power.
As the two sailboats make their way to Havana, a Mexican navy ship is expected to escort them for the remainder of the journey. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of international solidarity in times of crisis.
Despite the successful recovery of the vessels, details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact reason for the loss of communication with the boats. The expected arrival time of the sailboats in Cuba has not yet been disclosed, leaving some uncertainties in the air.
In summary, the safe recovery of the Cuban aid ships marks a significant development in the ongoing humanitarian efforts to support the Cuban people during a challenging period. The mission not only highlights the resilience of those involved but also the critical need for continued aid as Cuba navigates its economic difficulties.
