In a successful search operation, the Mexican Navy has located two humanitarian sailboats that had lost communication during their voyage from Mexico to Cuba. The vessels, identified as Tiger Moth and Friend Ship, were spotted approximately 80 nautical miles northwest of Havana by a naval aircraft on Saturday.
The sailboats, carrying nine crew members total, are part of the international ‘Our America Convoy’ initiative delivering critical humanitarian supplies to Cuba. This effort comes amid a severe energy and economic crisis on the island nation, exacerbated by U.S. fuel sanctions. The convoy has already transported 50 tonnes of medical equipment, food provisions, and solar panels through various channels.
Mexican naval authorities confirmed establishing radio communication with both vessels and dispatched a ship to provide necessary support. While the exact cause of the communication breakdown remains unspecified, organizers expressed relief at the successful location of the crews and their continued journey toward Havana.
The incident had drawn concern from Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel, who had pledged full cooperation in search efforts. The development occurs against a backdrop of heightened geopolitical tensions, with former U.S. President Donald Trump recently reiterating threats toward Cuba during a public forum in Miami, suggesting potential military action.
This humanitarian mission represents one of several recent aid deliveries to Cuba, including earlier shipments by air from Europe and the United States, alongside another converted fishing vessel that arrived earlier in the week after navigating challenging weather conditions and technical issues.