Two sailboats carrying humanitarian aid from Mexico to Cuba, which had been reported missing, have been found and have successfully reached the island, as confirmed by the United States Coast Guard on Friday.
The details shared by Deutsche Welle (DW) bring a resolution, at least in part, to the uncertainty that arose after losing contact with the vessels en route from Isla Mujeres to Havana.
According to a statement cited by DW, the U.S. Coast Guard was informed at 10:36 a.m. that both vessels had "safely reached Cuba."
Spokesperson Anthony Randisi confirmed this update but clarified that the U.S. was not directly involved in the search efforts, which were led by Mexican authorities.
So far, no additional information has been provided about the situation, nor is it known where exactly the sailboats were located.
The disappearance of the sailboats had caused concern since Thursday, prompting Mexico's Navy to launch a search and rescue operation for the two smaller vessels carrying nine crew members of various nationalities.
The sailboats had departed from Isla Mujeres headed for Havana, aiming to deliver humanitarian aid to Cuba.
Mexico's President, Claudia Sheinbaum, addressed the situation during her morning press briefing.
She explained that the Navy had arrived that same morning with a new shipment of humanitarian aid and noted the ongoing search for "a boat, a small sailboat, two vessels."
In her remarks, she contextualized the incident within a broader maritime support operation toward Cuba.
Sheinbaum elaborated that one of the Mexican Navy's ships had monitored the route of a cargo ship that successfully reached Cuba, but contact was lost with the two smaller boats after several hours.
"They were in contact with them, and after a few hours, they lost contact, which led to the start of a search process," stated the President, according to the document provided.
Sheinbaum also confirmed that nine individuals were aboard one of the sailboats but emphasized that the Navy would provide more detailed information about the crew and the progress of the operation.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Missing Sailboats Reaching Cuba
Why were the sailboats reported missing?
The sailboats were reported missing after contact was lost during their voyage from Isla Mujeres to Havana, sparking concern and a search operation.
Who led the search for the missing sailboats?
The search and rescue operation was led by Mexican authorities, specifically the Mexican Navy, although the U.S. Coast Guard was informed of the situation.
What was the purpose of the sailboats' journey?
The sailboats were on a mission to deliver humanitarian aid from Mexico to Cuba.