Mona Passage migration via small boats rises between Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico

Migration attempts via small boats, known as yolas, across the Mona Passage from the Dominican Republic to Puerto Rico are seeing a resurgence. Recent maritime operations involving the Dominican Republic Navy and the United States Coast Guard have rescued dozens of migrants from overloaded or sinking vessels. One recent rescue near Samaná involved 61 people, while another shipwreck in the passage resulted in three deaths and ten missing persons.

Data from the Dominican Republic Navy indicates that between July 2018 and March 2025, approximately 26,527 people were detained during illegal voyages. Of these, 18,504 were Dominican nationals and 6,253 were Haitian nationals. The U.S. Coast Guard has issued warnings that those intercepted at sea or detained on land may be ineligible for legal reentry programs and face repatriation to their country of origin.

The migration trend persists despite demographic shifts in Puerto Rico, where many municipalities are experiencing population decline. The passage remains a high-risk route, with journeys lasting anywhere from 12 hours to several days depending on weather and vessel conditions.