Honduras: Yacht Reports Suspicious Activity Offshore
The captain of a catamaran that was sailing from Panama to Belize has reported suspicious activity from two fishing boats which appeared to be trying to intercept his vessel when they were approximately 95 nautical miles off the coast of Honduras.
Published 2 years ago
DATE: 2022-11-16 22:45
LOCATION: Honduras – Offshore
EVENT: Suspicious Activity
HAND: 1
STOLEN ITEMS: None
SECURED: Does Not Apply
DETAILS:
A 47′ catamaran with two (2) persons on board departed Shelter Bay marina, Panama for Punta Gorda, Belize. Moving at about 8 knots, at 2245HRS they detected a boat two (2) nm in their forward path on radar. Their position was 16° 08.560 N, 082° 05.140 W, approx. 95 nautical miles off the coast of Honduras.
The captain determined there were 2 fishing boats, one heading directly (bow to bow) at the catamaran. Course was altered, and the enclosed fishing boat (est. 12m) also altered course and continued its direct approach. Course was again altered and 2nd engine added and the yacht went dark. A second similar fishing boat was noted, also heading for the yacht. The first fishing boat had closed to within 60 feet on the port beam. With the addition of the second engine and a favorable wind angle the catamaran was moving at 12 knots, and the fishing boats were unable to keep pace but followed on the altered course for an additional 30 minutes. There were no radio communications.
The catamaran continued without further incident to Belize, and made an informal report to authorities on arrival.
CSSN NOTE: If you are a victim, please take five minutes to complete the CSSN online incident report, it’s quick, confidential and keeps our cruising community fully and factually informed.
Related to following destinations: Atlantic (Honduras), Belize, Caribbean, Honduras, Panama, Punta Gorda
Related to the following Cruising Resources: Caribbean, Piracy & Security
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