The ferry connecting the El Socucho community to La Boca beach, a popular destination in Las Tunas, resumed operation this past weekend with a fare of 50 pesos per passenger. This new rate, double that of previous seasons, has sparked widespread criticism among users.
The Provincial Passenger and Cargo Transportation Company (Cardinal) announced that the ferry would operate Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. According to the Cuban News Agency (ACN), the vessel passed its annual technical inspection and received the necessary authorization to run.
Yet, the announcement came with a caveat that has caused further unease: the trips are "subject to fuel availability," a condition many interpreted as a warning that the service might be suddenly halted.
Public Backlash Over Uncertainty and Price Increase
On social media, criticism focused on both the uncertainty of service and the fare increase. Many users pointed out that a previous announcement by Cardinal had set the fare at 20 pesos per passenger.
"Yesterday it was 20 pesos, and today it's 50," remarked one user online. Another wryly commented, "Today it's 50, tomorrow 100, and the day after 150."
The hike also raised concerns among those with fixed incomes. While some users brushed off the increase citing inflation, others highlighted that the new price poses a significant expense for many Cuban families looking to enjoy a beach day during the summer.
Fuel Concerns Stir Public Doubts
The mention of fuel availability also sparked numerous reactions. "Do you leave in the early hours only to be told there's no fuel for the day?" questioned one user. Another summed up the general sentiment with a blunt comment: "The key point is there's no fuel."
The public's skepticism is not unfounded. Cuba is grappling with a severe transportation crisis due to fuel shortages and a deteriorating fleet of vehicles. In Las Tunas, authorities acknowledge that the province receives less than a third of the planned fuel supply, and only a fraction of state vehicles remain operational.
Some internet users recalled similar experiences with newly announced transport routes that ceased operations soon after their introduction. Others noted that reaching the boarding point in El Socucho is already a challenge due to limited public transportation options.
Operational Challenges and Additional Costs
The first weekend of resumed service was not without complaints. One user reported that passengers waited for hours under the sun to board the ferry.
"I went yesterday, and the service was terrible. People, including children, were left waiting in the sun for nearly two hours with no answers," one person wrote.
Besides passenger fares, Cardinal announced fees of 50 pesos for bicycles, 100 pesos for motorcycles, and 20 pesos for each transported item. The company anticipates that private boats will also assist in ferrying passengers to La Boca during the summer season. However, users warned that private operators have charged up to 1,000 pesos per person on previous occasions, a price unattainable for most Cubans.
Questions About Las Tunas Ferry Service
Why did the ferry fare increase to 50 pesos?
The fare increase to 50 pesos is attributed to rising operational costs and inflation, doubling the previous rate of 20 pesos.
What days does the ferry operate to La Boca beach?
The ferry operates Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Is the ferry service reliable given the fuel shortages?
The ferry service is subject to fuel availability, which could lead to sudden cancellations, reflecting the broader transportation crisis in Cuba.