The maritime transportation in Havana is set to improve as the ferries La Giraldilla and La Coubre are back in operation after successfully completing navigation tests post-repairs.
According to a Facebook announcement by the Provincial Transportation Company of Havana on Saturday, both vessels underwent various performance evaluations at different power levels, all of which they passed with flying colors. This marks the conclusion of the repair phase for the ferries serving Havana Bay.
Official statements reveal that the necessary navigation permits, repair approvals, and fuel provisioning were arranged on the afternoon of March 1st. Consequently, La Giraldilla resumed its usual routes and schedules that same Saturday afternoon, while La Coubre is expected to join the service soon. This initiative aims to alleviate transportation congestion in the Cuban capital and ensure a more reliable maritime transit system.
The return of these ferries is a welcome development for Havana's residents, who have been grappling with significant challenges in public transportation over the past months. Passenger ferry services in Havana Bay were halted on February 20th due to a breakdown in the shaft line of the "Giraldilla" vessel, which was the sole operational ferry at the time.
Cuba's Minister of Transportation, Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, explained that machining work and mechanical adjustments to bushings, propellers, and other components were necessary for the repair. He initially announced that "Giraldilla" would be back in service by March 10th, but the timeline was expedited following successful technical reviews.
In February 2024, Minister Rodríguez Dávila disclosed that among the six vessels assigned to this service, only one was operational, with the others sidelined due to technical issues. The arrival of three new engines was anticipated by the end of March to aid in repairs, with plans to introduce a second ferry by the end of April, another during the semester, and two more at the start of 2025.
A temporary suspension of services occurred on May 20th when the only functioning ferry suffered a propeller detachment, rendering it inoperative. However, services resumed on May 25th with the reintroduction of "La Giraldilla," which had undergone comprehensive repairs.
Key Questions on Havana's Ferry Operations
What improvements have been made to Havana's ferry services?
The return of the ferries La Giraldilla and La Coubre marks a significant improvement with successful completion of repairs and navigation tests, enhancing reliability and reducing congestion in maritime transit.
Why were Havana's ferry services suspended in February 2024?
Services were suspended due to a breakdown in the shaft line of the ferry Giraldilla, which was the only operational vessel at the time, necessitating repair work.
When are additional ferries expected to join the service?
Plans include introducing a second ferry by the end of April, another during the semester, and two more at the start of 2025, following the arrival of new engines.