The Cuban government has announced the discovery of two abandoned boats along the coastline of Matanzas province, urging owners to claim them within 30 calendar days. The Harbor Master’s Office in Cárdenas reported that the first vessel was located on December 21, 2024, in an area called Canal de los Barcos, in the Martí municipality.
Details of the First Boat
This boat has a plastic hull, painted white, and measures 3 meters in length, 1.50 meters in width, and 0.40 meters in height. Inside one of its sides, the name "DABID DIEHEL" is handwritten alongside the number 989-640-4107, providing a potential lead for identifying its owner.
Second Boat Found Near Popular Hotel
The second vessel was discovered on January 24, 2025, near the Sirenis Tropic Hotel in the Cárdenas municipality. This boat features a red carbon fiber hull with dimensions of 2.90 meters in length, 1.29 meters in width, and 0.65 meters in height. It was equipped with a Yamaha 9.9 Hp outboard motor and two cylinders, though no other identifying marks were visible, as reported by the state-run media outlet, Cubadebate.
The Harbor Master’s Office in Cárdenas has specified that individuals or entities who believe they have a claim to these vessels must present themselves at their office—located at Calle Céspedes Final, Cárdenas—within 30 calendar days from the date of this announcement, along with documentation proving ownership or possession of the found property. This procedure follows the guidelines outlined in Article 214, Section c) of Decree No. 317, part of the regulations under Law No. 115 “On Maritime, River and Lake Navigation” of the Republic of Cuba.
It is not uncommon for boats like these to be left behind on Cuban shores, often after being used by smugglers, drug traffickers, or migrants operating in the region. Authorities usually conduct investigations into the origins of such vessels and any potential ties to illegal activities in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions about Abandoned Boats in Cuba
Why are boats often abandoned on Cuban shores?
Boats are frequently abandoned on Cuban shores because they are used by smugglers, drug traffickers, or migrants, who then leave them behind to avoid detection or capture.
What is the procedure for claiming an abandoned boat in Cuba?
Individuals or entities who believe they hold rights to an abandoned boat must present themselves at the designated Harbor Master’s Office within 30 calendar days, providing documentation that proves ownership or possession.
What regulations govern the handling of abandoned boats in Cuba?
The handling of abandoned boats in Cuba is governed by Article 214, Section c) of Decree No. 317, which is part of the regulations under Law No. 115 “On Maritime, River and Lake Navigation” in the Republic of Cuba.