The Island of Youth is at significant risk of becoming isolated due to the ongoing crisis in maritime transport that is currently affecting its connectivity with the rest of the country. According to the Minister of Transport, Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, ensuring transportation to and from the island has always been a priority, but the aging fleet and inadequate maintenance are pushing the situation to the brink.
The Maritime-Port Business Group (GEMAR) recently reported on the critical condition of the vessels responsible for covering the routes between Batabanó, Gerona, and Cayo Largo del Sur, said the official in a Facebook post. The catamarans "Río Júcaro" and "Río Las Casas", which have been in service for over 20 years, are currently out of operation due to severe deterioration and the unavailability of necessary parts and materials for their maintenance, he added.
This situation has left the ferry "Perseverancia" as the only operational vessel, leading to its overexploitation. Since August 11, passenger transportation has been exclusively carried out with the Perseverancia, necessitating extreme precautions to prevent its deterioration, said Rodríguez Dávila, who in May also acknowledged the poor service for traveling to the Island of Youth. However, this vessel cannot operate on the route to Cayo Largo del Sur due to its deeper draft, which exceeds the docking limitations in the cayo.
Authorities are now coordinating alternative air routes for the coming days, but the unavailability of the aircraft covering this route further complicates the situation. The minister noted that intensive efforts are currently underway to repair an unexpected issue in the portside main engine of the catamaran "Río Las Casas", which went out of service on August 10. The return of this vessel to operation will depend on the success of the ongoing repairs.
Additionally, there are efforts to repair two main engines in overseas shipyards, which could provide greater operational stability and allow for the repair of the catamaran "Río Júcaro".
Understanding the Maritime Transport Crisis in Island of Youth
The following questions and answers aim to provide further insight into the ongoing maritime transport crisis affecting the Island of Youth.
What is causing the maritime transport crisis in the Island of Youth?
The crisis is primarily due to the aging fleet of vessels and inadequate maintenance, which have led to severe deterioration and the unavailability of necessary parts and materials.
Which vessels are currently affected by this crisis?
The catamarans "Río Júcaro" and "Río Las Casas" are both out of operation due to their advanced state of deterioration. The ferry "Perseverancia" is the only vessel currently in service.
What measures are being taken to address the crisis?
Efforts are being made to repair the catamarans and alternative air routes are being coordinated. Specifically, repairs are underway for the "Río Las Casas" and two main engines are being repaired in overseas shipyards.