Key West, Fla. – A flotilla organized by the Democracy Movement left Key West on Friday morning on a mission to sail to the waters off the Cuba on a humanity mission.
The four boats carrying 50 Cuban exiles and a group of reporters sailed out of the port after a prayer service and the singing of the Cuban national anthem.
Just before they reach Cuban waters Friday evening, about 12 miles offshore, people aboard the boats plan to launch 80 fireworks as an act of solidarity with the Cuban people.
Photos: Flotilla leaves Key West
Because of the 700 pounds of fireworks aboard the boats, which would be enough to put on a two-hour show, there are reports on Twitter that the Cuban government is telling people the boats are laden with bombs. According to Twitter reports, Cuba has already shut down the seawall for three miles to prevent people from seeing the flotilla when it arrives.
Organizers said they are not worried, that they plan to stay in national waters and not to tempt Cuba into any action.
"It is very important to say to the Cuban people on the island, 'You are not alone,'" said Ramon Saul Sanchez, of the Democracy Movement. "It's important to say to the world, 'Look, put your eyes on Cuba.'"
"It is important. I think we're opening channels of communications. We're putting some pressure on the Cuban government, as well," Sanchez said.
Late Thursday, the Coast Guard inspected the boats and approved them to set sail.
The U.S. Coast Guard said it will track the flotilla, but will not interfere with it as long as it obeys U.S. laws.
A Coast Guard spokeswoman, however, said crews would not stop Cuban authorities who take action against the flotilla for "legitimate" violations of Cuban laws.