Sailing Vessel Escapes Armed Skiff Approach Southwest of Yemen’s Hodeidah

A sailing vessel successfully avoided a suspected armed boarding attempt 54 nautical miles southwest of Al Hudaydah, Yemen, after its crew deployed a flare, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).

The incident, reported on Sunday, involved a small skiff carrying approximately 10 to 12 individuals, with around 4 to 5 of them reportedly armed with automatic weapons. The skiff approached the sailing vessel and instructed it to stop, raising immediate security concerns in the busy maritime corridor.

When the vessel’s master refused to comply, the skiff attempted to maneuver alongside the sailing vessel in an apparent effort to board it. In response, the crew deployed a flare as a defensive signal, after which the skiff broke off the attempt and moved away toward the southeast.

UKMTO confirmed that the vessel and its crew remained safe following the incident. Maritime authorities have since launched an investigation to determine the nature and intent of the approach.

The area southwest of Al Hudaydah is considered a sensitive maritime route due to ongoing regional security risks, prompting regular advisories for commercial and private vessels to exercise heightened caution.

United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations has urged all vessels transiting the region to remain vigilant, report any suspicious activity immediately, and follow established maritime security protocols.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation as part of broader efforts to ensure safe navigation in international waters near Yemen.