Two humanitarian vessels en route from Mexico to Cuba have reportedly gone missing, prompting a search-and-rescue operation by the Mexican Navy. The ships, named Friendship and Tigger Moth, set sail from Isla Mujeres in the state of Quintana Roo on March 20 but failed to arrive in Havana as scheduled on March 24 or 25.
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Military aircraft and naval teams have been dispatched to locate the vessels, which were carrying a combined crew of nine individuals from various countries including Poland, France, Cuba, and the United States. Reports indicate that there has been no communication from either ship since they were last heard from, raising concerns for the safety of those onboard.
The humanitarian mission aimed to provide much-needed assistance to the Cuban population, which has been grappling with significant energy shortages and widespread blackouts. This crisis has severely impacted essential services and daily life for the nation’s 10 million residents. The situation has been exacerbated by a U.S. blockade on oil shipments to Cuba, which has further constrained resources.
The aid effort, organised under a non-government initiative called “Nuestra America Convoy,” has involved volunteers in Mexico gathering supplies such as rice, beans, baby formula, medicine, and hygiene products for transport to the island. A spokesperson for the convoy confirmed that experienced sailors captained both Friendship and Tigger Moth, and that they were equipped with appropriate safety measures.
On March 24, another vessel from the convoy successfully completed its journey, arriving in Havana. This has provided some hope for the families of those still missing, as relief efforts continue. Despite the absence of contact, the convoy spokesperson expressed confidence in the crews’ abilities to navigate safely to their destination.
The Mexican Navy has taken steps to collaborate with maritime rescue coordination centres in the respective countries of the crew members. Communication with diplomatic representatives is ongoing, as officials remain actively involved in the search operation.
As the situation develops, several maritime and international rescue agencies, including the Polish Maritime Search and Rescue Service and the U.S. Coast Guard, have been contacted for assistance. However, inquiries concerning the current status of the search have gone unanswered as of yet.
The disappearance of these humanitarian vessels highlights the intricate challenges associated with delivering aid to countries facing political and logistical restrictions. As the search continues, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of all individuals aboard Friendship and Tigger Moth, as well as addressing the pressing needs of those in Cuba that these efforts aim to support.