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Maritime transport in Havana will receive a boost with the reintroduction of the boats La Giraldilla and La Coubre, which have successfully passed navigation tests following a period of repairs.
The Provincial Transport Company of Havana reported this Saturday on Facebook that both vessels underwent performance tests at different power levels, which they passed successfully.
With this, the repair of the boats providing service in the Bay of Havana was concluded, the agency emphasized.
According to official information, the navigation permits, approval for repairs, and fuel supply were managed on the afternoon of March 1st.
This allowed La Giraldilla to resume its operations on Saturday afternoon, adhering to its usual routes and schedules.
On its part, La Coubre will soon be added to the service, a measure aimed at easing congestion in transportation in the Cuban capital and providing greater stability in maritime transfers.
The return of these boats represents an improvement in mobility for the people of Havana, who have faced serious challenges in public transportation in recent months.
Since February 20, the passenger ferry service in the Bay of Havana has been suspended due to the breakage of the shaft line of the "Giraldilla" vessel, the only one that had been operational in recent weeks.
The Minister of Transport of Cuba, Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, outlined that work would be carried out on turning and adjustments to the bushings, the propeller, and other mechanical elements for their repair.
In addition, it was announced at that time that the "Giraldilla" could be reinstated for service on March 10, a date that was moved up following technical reviews.
In February 2024, Minister Rodríguez Dávila reported that out of the six boats designated for this service, only one was operational, while the other five were out of service due to technical issues.
The arrival of three new engines was expected by the end of March to facilitate repairs, with the goal of incorporating a second boat by the end of April, another in the semester, and two more at the beginning of 2025.
In May, the service was temporarily suspended on the 20th due to a malfunction in the only operational vessel, when the propeller detached and fell into the water.
After repairs, the service resumed on May 25 with the addition of "La Giraldilla," which had undergone a major overhaul.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Reintroduction of Boats in Havana
What boats are returning to service in Havana?
The boats "La Giraldilla" and "La Coubre" are returning to service in Havana after successfully completing their repairs. This return aims to ease maritime transportation in the Cuban capital, which has faced serious difficulties in recent months.
Why was the boat service in Havana Bay suspended?
The service was suspended due to the breakage of the shaft line of the vessel "Giraldilla", the only one operational at that time. The breakdown left users who rely on this mode of transportation without service for their daily commutes between Regla, Casablanca, and Old Havana.
When is the boat "La Coubre" expected to begin operating again?
The boat "La Coubre" will soon be back in service after completing the necessary repairs. It is estimated that it could start operating on March 1, according to official forecasts.
What improvements were made to the boats "La Giraldilla" and "La Coubre"?
The boats underwent lathe work, adjustments to bushings and propellers, and interventions in the electrical and structural areas. These improvements aim to ensure greater stability in maritime transfers and to alleviate transportation congestion in the Cuban capital.
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