The Secretariat of the Navy (Semar) reported the location of two catamaran-type vessels that had been reported missing in the Mexican Caribbean, after setting sail with humanitarian aid bound for Havana, Cuba. According to the department, the discovery was made as part of the Marina Plan in its Search and Rescue (SAR) component, activated after the loss of communication with the vessels identified as 'Friendship' and 'Tiger Moth', which were carrying nine crew members of different nationalities. Semar detailed that a Persuader-type aircraft from the Mexican Navy managed to spot both vessels on March 27, approximately 80 nautical miles northwest of Cuba, confirming their identity. Subsequently, communication was established with one of the captains, who reported that the crews were in good health. According to official information, the delay in their arrival was due to adverse weather conditions, particularly headwinds during the navigation. After the contact, the department indicated that it would coordinate the escort of a surface unit to ensure their safe arrival at the destination. 'Their location and the establishment of communication with both crews was achieved,' informed the Secretariat of the Navy in its statement. Likewise, it noted that the actions were carried out under international search and rescue protocols. The vessels had set sail on March 20 from Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo, as part of a convoy with humanitarian aid. Their arrival was expected between March 24 and 25; however, as their arrival was not confirmed nor communication maintained, the corresponding protocols were activated. As part of the operation, Semar deployed air and naval units, in addition to coordinating actions with national and international authorities, including Maritime Rescue Coordination Centers (MRCC) of various countries. President Claudia Sheinbaum had previously indicated that the loss of contact occurred after a vessel had maintained communication with the catamarans, which led to the start of the search process. Semar reiterated that these actions are part of its responsibility to safeguard human life at sea, while highlighting international cooperation in the development of the operation. The convoy to which the vessels belonged was transporting about 30 tons of humanitarian aid, including food, medicine, hygiene products, and solar panels.
