For many Dominicans, the belief that a better life awaits in the United States remains strong. This aspiration drives individuals to leave their homes and risk a perilous journey across the Mona Channel in modest boats, seeking to reach Puerto Rico.
A Dangerous Route
This maritime route represents one of the most dangerous migration paths in the Caribbean, continuing to claim the lives of men, women, and adolescents who brave an unpredictable sea in pursuit of a better quality of life. Despite ongoing efforts, the flow of irregular maritime migration to Puerto Rico remains unchecked.
People embark on this journey by selling all their possessions and paying substantial sums of money, with no guarantee of safety. They set sail from the Dominican Republic in fragile wooden boats, toward a distant dream.
Exploitation and Violence
The risks extend beyond the 250+ nautical mile crossing. According to the International Organization for Migration (OIM), these voyages are characterized not only by illegal transport but also by incidents of murder, rape, scams, disappearances, and drug trafficking. The OIM further notes that migrants are exposed to risks of human trafficking and exploitation, including sexual and labor exploitation.
The Center for Migration Observation and Social Development in the Caribbean (Obmica) reports that women face particular hardships, with instances of being thrown overboard during menstruation or after experiencing a miscarriage. Obmica’s 2023 report, “Dominican Emigration: Figures and Trends,” indicates that women are often victims of sexual assault before and after these journeys, but many do not report these crimes.
A recent OIM survey reveals that 94.96% of migrants and potential migrants are aware of the risks involved in undertaking the journey. The most recognized risks are separation from family and friends, the danger of death, and the possibility of robbery, violence, and sexual abuse at the hands of traffickers.
Recent Interceptions
Between 2023 and mid-2025, the Dominican Armada (ARD) has rescued or detained 7,587 people attempting to reach Puerto Rico by yola. During the same period, they have retained 972 vessels.
Most yola departures originate from provinces in the eastern part of the country, including La Altagracia, El Seibo, and Hato Mayor. Municipalities like Miches and Sabana de la Mar are key departure points due to their proximity to Puerto Rico, favorable navigation conditions, and the presence of facilitators.
The practice of traveling by yola reportedly began around 1980, when two fishermen spotted the coast of Puerto Rico and began making practice runs, eventually reaching the island. This sparked a wave of similar attempts.
The cost of passage has increased dramatically over time. While fares were as low as RD$1,500 or RD$2,000 in the 1990s, today individuals may pay between US$5,000 and US$10,000 for a spot on a yola, with no guarantee of actually boarding the vessel.
Scams are common, with organizers often overselling spaces or failing to deliver on promised voyages. Individuals from other provinces arrive in towns like Sabana de la Mar, hoping to find passage, and often wait for weeks or months for an opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary motivations for taking this dangerous journey?
The primary motivation is the belief that a better life awaits in the United States, driving individuals to risk the perilous journey despite the known dangers.
What are some of the risks associated with traveling by yola?
Risks include the danger of death, separation from family, robbery, violence, sexual abuse, human trafficking, and exploitation.
How many people have been intercepted attempting this journey recently?
Between 2023 and mid-2025, the Dominican Armada has rescued or detained 7,587 people attempting to reach Puerto Rico by yola, and retained 972 vessels.
Given the ongoing risks and the continued flow of migrants, what steps might be taken to address this complex issue?
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