The ferry Perseverancia and the trio of catamarans providing transportation to Isla de la Juventud have emerged largely unscathed following the passage of Hurricane Rafael. According to the Minister of Transport, Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, although details are still being confirmed, initial reports suggest that both the port of Gerona and the vessels docked there are in good condition.
"The ferry Perseverancia, crucial for transporting passengers and rolling cargo to and from Isla de la Juventud, was sheltered in the Siguanea inlet and is also reportedly in favorable condition," Rodríguez Dávila shared on Facebook.
Disruptions in Marine Transport
On Wednesday, as the Civil Defense issued a cyclone alert for the western region, including the Special Municipality of Isla de la Juventud, Rodríguez Dávila announced transportation cancellations. The maritime traffic between the ports of Batabanó and Nueva Gerona was halted until weather conditions permitted safe navigation.
Passengers with reserved tickets were advised to stay in touch with the commercial offices of Empresa Viajero to reschedule their trips once maritime services resume.
Challenges Facing Maritime Operations
The maritime link keeping Isla de la Juventud connected with the main island is facing a severe crisis due to aging vessels and inadequate maintenance. In August, the Maritime-Port Business Group (GEMAR) reported the dire condition of the ships servicing routes between Batabanó, Gerona, and Cayo Largo del Sur.
A GEMAR official indicated that the catamarans Río Júcaro and Río Las Casas, both in service for over two decades, are out of operation because of advanced deterioration and a shortage of necessary parts and materials for repairs. This situation has left the ferry Perseverancia as the sole operational vessel, leading to its overuse.