A tanker laden with Russian diesel fuel, originally slated for Cuba, has made its way into Venezuelan waters after altering its course in the Caribbean, according to maritime tracking data.
The Sea Horse, a Hong Kong-flagged vessel, is transporting approximately 190,000 barrels of Russian diesel that was initially bound for the island nation last month. However, recent days have seen the ship change its path, now sailing off the Venezuelan coast, as reported by AFP.
Analysis from the firm Kpler reveals that the tanker made a sudden shift in direction last week, heading south through the eastern Caribbean before turning west toward Venezuela.
The same data indicates that the vessel is expected to dock at Puerto Cabello on Wednesday, March 25th, confirming the rerouted destination of its cargo.
MarineTraffic's platform provides further details, noting that the Sea Horse is a tanker designed for transporting oil and chemicals. It measures 160 meters in length and 25.03 meters in width, and sails under the Hong Kong flag.
Tracking data highlights that the vessel is currently positioned in the northern region of South America, with Puerto Cabello in Venezuela as its reported target, advancing at an approximate speed of 7.1 knots.
The AIS system also reports that the tanker is in a "not under command" status, maintaining its course for the Venezuelan port after multiple route changes.
The Sea Horse initially received its cargo of diesel through a ship-to-ship transfer off the coast of Cyprus in early February, at which point it declared Havana as its destination.
Nevertheless, the vessel later revised its itinerary several times, even listing locations such as Gibraltar and the Caribbean Sea, before ultimately setting its course for Venezuela.
Key Details on the Sea Horse's Journey
Why did the Sea Horse tanker change its route?
The reasons for the route change are not explicitly clear; however, geopolitical factors and logistical considerations often influence such decisions.
What is the current destination of the Sea Horse tanker?
The Sea Horse is currently en route to Puerto Cabello in Venezuela, with its arrival expected on March 25th.
What was the original destination of the Sea Horse's cargo?
Initially, the cargo was destined for Havana, Cuba, before the tanker altered its course.