DATE: 2022-05-25 23:30
LOCATION: Venezuela – Offshore01
EVENT: Suspicious Activity
HAND: 1
STOLEN ITEMS: N/A
SECURED: Does not apply
DETAILS: Two yachts transited together from Grenada to Bonaire, with lights and AIS ON, on a planned course 80-100 miles off the mainland and well north of the offshore Venezuelan islands. At about 2130HRS they had an unusual VHF communication initiated by a passing cargo vessel, warning them of “bad weather ahead” and inquiring about their destination and the number of persons onboard (POB). The yacht responded that they were 2 boats traveling together to Bonaire, ignoring the POB question.
Shorty thereafter, at position 13-14N 65-35W, about 120 miles NW of Isla Blanquilla they observed 2 small fishing type boats following, and over a 2 hour period the suspect boats had closed to within about 100 meters, and between the 2 yachts, which had been traveling on parallel courses about 1 mile apart. The yacht notified their buddy boat by VHF, both powered up their engines, put on speed and made a course change, moving closer together. Both yachts continued onto Bonaire without further incident.
ID: 2805