A drifting raft was found off Long Key in the Florida Keys, according to a video posted on Instagram by the verified account @pesca_en_los_cayos.
In the images recorded on October 11, the boat can be seen capsized about eight miles offshore. "Look, my people, this is a capsized raft, the swell turned it over (...) let's hope everyone is okay," says the author of the video as he approaches the boat, which he describes as "another shipwreck of Cubans."
The man points out that the raft did not have the yellow markings with the message "OK" that the U.S. Coast Guard usually places on intercepted vessels, including the date of the rescue and confirmation that the migrants were found alive. "There’s no sign saying OK anywhere, of course, it’s upside down, it’s been turned over by the swell, but well, let’s hope everyone is okay," he comments.
The finding occurs in a context of significant decline in attempts to reach the United States by sea. According to official data from the Customs and Border Protection (CBP), during the last fiscal year, 857 migrants arrived by sea, a significantly lower number than in previous years. Since February 2025, interceptions have steadily decreased: in January, there were 139 and in August, only 39, the lowest monthly figure in years.
The decline coincides with the tightening of immigration policies following the rise to power of President Donald Trump, who ended humanitarian entry programs and strengthened maritime and border controls. Irregular crossings at the southern border of the United States have also dropped to their lowest level in half a century, according to data from federal agencies cited in recent reports on the implementation of new restrictions at the border and the closure of the asylum system.
The posting of the video on social media has raised concerns among Cuban users who fear that it may be one of the many failed journeys of migrants leaving the island in search of reaching Florida. On Instagram, the creator requested to share the images "in case there are missing family members or someone recognizes the vessel."
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Migration and U.S. Immigration Policies
Why was a raft found adrift near the Florida Keys?
The raft found near Long Key in the Florida Keys is an example of the dangerous journeys undertaken by Cuban migrants in their attempt to reach the United States. The discovery was made on October 11, and the vessel was overturned, without the "OK" markings that indicate the U.S. Coast Guard rescued the occupants.
How have U.S. immigration policies changed under the administration of Donald Trump?
Since Donald Trump took office, U.S. immigration policies have tightened significantly. This has resulted in a sharp decline in attempts at illegal crossings, both by sea and land. Stricter controls have been implemented and humanitarian entry programs have been eliminated, leading to a dramatic decrease in the arrival of Cuban migrants to the U.S.
What is the current situation of Cuban migration to the United States?
Cuban migration to the United States has significantly decreased due to stricter immigration policies. During the last fiscal year, only 857 migrants arrived by sea, a low figure compared to previous years. Despite the risks, some Cubans continue to attempt to reach the U.S. in search of better living conditions.
What risks do Cuban migrants face when trying to reach the U.S. by sea?
Cuban migrants attempting to reach the U.S. by sea face numerous risks, including shipwrecks, dehydration, and hunger. The journeys are extremely dangerous due to sea conditions and the precariousness of the rafts used. The U.S. Coast Guard conducts rescue operations, but many migrants face the possibility of being repatriated if intercepted.
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