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James Nunan, a 34-year-old sailor from Colchester, has not been seen since he vanished in Gran Canaria on 19 August 2025, while on an ambitious sailing journey around the globe. His family has raised concerns about potential foul play, and a private investigator has suggested that evidence discovered aboard Nunan’s boat hints at unlawful activity. Recent investigation reports, which have come to light, provide a troubling glimpse into the circumstances surrounding his disappearance.
Timeline of Disappearance
Nunan, affectionately known as Jemsie to his family, embarked on his sailing adventure in March 2025, with aspirations of eventually reaching Brazil. After dining in the Las Palmas area on the evening of 19 August, he disappeared without a trace. According to his family, he had docked his boat before heading into the city with his miniature Jack Russell, Thumbelina. Witnesses claim that he mentioned plans to sail to Lanzarote that night.
In a Facebook Live broadcast shortly before he was last seen, Nunan filmed himself walking along Playa del Confital beach. Six days later, his boat, Kehaar, was discovered adrift approximately 100 miles from Las Palmas, with Thumbelina found on board but no sign of Nunan.
The Search Efforts
Initial efforts to locate Nunan began five days after he was reported missing. Authorities were notified on 25 August when it was revealed that his boat had not arrived at its intended port. A surveillance aircraft quickly located Kehaar at sea, empty and floating around 50 miles south of Gran Canaria. After alerting nearby vessels, crews found Thumbelina but confirmed that no humans were aboard.
The search intensified with the deployment of patrol planes and checks at local ports, but Nunan remained elusive. Weather conditions during this period were challenging, with strong winds and high currents reportedly complicating the search operations.
Disturbing Findings Aboard the Boat
A report from the Guardia Civil details the condition of Nunan’s boat, revealing evidence that has raised alarm bells. Blood stains were identified in multiple locations, and several electronic devices belonging to Nunan were found severely charred, suggesting potential foul play. The disarray within the cabin, with belongings scattered haphazardly, has led investigators to consider the possibility of a violent incident.
Additionally, damage to the boat’s sail has been attributed to suspected knife cuts, although this detail was notably absent from official reports. A private investigator engaged by Nunan’s family has expressed skepticism regarding the likelihood of an accident, stating that the combination of evidence points towards something more sinister.
Official Response and Family Concerns
Despite the troubling evidence, the Guardia Civil has not ruled out the possibility of an accidental drowning, suggesting Nunan may have fallen overboard after drinking. This conclusion has been met with disbelief from his family, who argue that his mental state and actions leading up to his disappearance indicate a level of coherence that contradicts the notion of an accident.
Nikita Goddard, Nunan’s half-sister, has been vocal about the family’s frustrations with the investigation. She emphasises that Nunan frequently communicated with his family during his travels, raising further questions about his state of mind prior to vanishing. Goddard has called for British authorities to take over the investigation, citing a lack of transparency and urgency from local officials.
Why it Matters
The case of James Nunan highlights the complexities and dangers faced by solo sailors, especially those navigating unfamiliar waters. As investigations continue, the unresolved nature of his disappearance leaves his family in a state of uncertainty and anguish. The potential for foul play raises serious questions not only about Nunan’s fate but also about the safety of others undertaking similar journeys. The focus now lies on ensuring that thorough investigations are conducted, holding accountable those responsible for any wrongdoing, and providing closure to a grieving family.
