Honduras, Offshore: Catamaran Menaced by Three Boats
The crew of a catamaran on passage from Honduras to Panama were able to ward off a potential piracy incident by executing their previously agreed plan.
Published 3 years ago
LOCATION: Honduras – Offshore
EVENT: Suspicious Activity
HAND: 1
STOLEN ITEMS: None
SECURED: Does Not Apply
DETAILS: A 38′ catamaran traveling from Utila, Bay Islands, bound for Shelter Bay Marina, Panama, was approached on the port stern by 3 launches at 0930HRS, at position 15⁰ 41.020`N and 082⁰ 40.975′ W, approximately 50 miles off the coast of Honduras.
The captain was sleeping in the cockpit, a crew member stepped into the cockpit, saw the launches approaching approximately 50 yards off and alerted all hands, who immediately executed their previously agreed plan.
The three crew presented themselves on deck with the intent to show menace, displaying what appeared to be a rifle and a barking dog. No weapons were evident in the lead launch and it fell back, continuing to match the yacht’s speed on the starboard side for a few minutes, then it turned and left on a beam run, followed by the other two launches. The 3 launches carried a total of 11-13 men.
The crew continued their passage to Panama without further incident and planned to make official reports to officials there with the aid of marina personnel, as well as to their consulate.
Take the time to Know Before You Go!
Having a well thought out and “agreed amongst the crew plan” is the best way to ensure a best possible outcome.
Check out the CSSN dedicated Piracy Zoom-Tap, Know & Go maps to understand the facts about what has happened previously in the region and be sure to review the helpful Piracy Precautions information which you’ll find on the CSSN website
Related to following destinations: Bay Islands, Caribbean, Honduras, Panama, Utila
Related to the following Cruising Resources: Caribbean, Piracy & Security