The 'Bau bau', a sailboat seized from a narco who ran aground and became a tourist attraction in Xàbia, has its days numbered

The Bau bau, a 19-meter sailing vessel seized during a drug trafficking operation, has become an unexpected tourist attraction in Xàbia, Spain, before its fate is sealed. The boat, which ran aground after a severe storm on July 24, 2025, now rests on a fossilized dune in the Primer Montanyar area of the bay. Its presence has drawn visitors, photographers, and even artists who have turned it into a canvas for their work. Located near Jávea, the municipality already sees more than enough annual tourists, yet the sight of the ship has sparked conversations among locals and visitors alike. The Bau bau was originally seized by authorities during a narcotics operation and later sold through a public auction held by the Ministry of Justice’s Office of Asset Recovery and Management. According to reports from Levante, the Polish buyer paid nearly 85,000 euros for the vessel. However, his ownership was brief. Just two months after acquiring the boat, a powerful storm pushed it onto the beach. Since then, the vessel has remained stranded, becoming a symbol of both tragedy and curiosity. Efforts to refloat the Bau bau have faced numerous challenges. Successive storms have further driven the boat inland, making it increasingly difficult to retrieve via water. Administrative hurdles have also delayed progress, with local officials noting that the responsibility lies with the Spanish Coast Guard. Despite this, the municipal government took steps to ensure safety by draining fuel and other hazardous materials from the vessel. The town council worked closely with national authorities to determine the best course of action. Officials confirmed that the General Directorate of Coast Guard has approved plans to remove the boat starting October 13, once the peak tourist season ends. This decision was based on safety considerations, as outlined by local sources. While details of the removal process remain undisclosed, there is speculation that the boat may need to be dismantled to facilitate transport. If no new storm intervenes during the operation, the Bau bau will soon be gone. The vessel's current state reflects the unpredictable nature of coastal life and the unintended consequences of law enforcement actions. Once a tool of illicit trade, it has now found itself in an unusual role, both a relic of past operations and a subject of public fascination. Locals say the boat has become part of the community’s identity, though they acknowledge the eventual necessity of its removal. As preparations for the removal begin, the Bau bau continues to draw attention. Tourists still gather around it, taking photos and leaving messages of appreciation. Some have even created small artworks on the hull, adding to its story. For now, the boat remains a silent witness to the intersection of human activity and natural forces, a fleeting moment of intrigue in a place known for its beauty and history. Whether it will be fully restored or simply removed without further incident remains uncertain. What is certain is that its time as a tourist attraction is drawing to a close.