Guyana Ferry Disaster: 41 Dead, 77 Rescued After MV Barima Capsizes With 179 Aboard

A Guyana ferry disaster has left dozens dead and missing after the MV Barima capsized off the Essequibo coast, with authorities now estimating that 179 people were aboard, far exceeding the official passenger manifest. The tragedy occurred late Saturday during the vessel’s journey from Georgetown to Port Kaituma in northwestern Guyana.

Survivor Helena Moonsammy described the sinking as a terrifying and sudden event, saying the ferry went down within moments. She said she lost four grandchildren in the disaster and spent about nine hours in the water while trying to survive. “The boat sunk in minutes, seconds,” she recalled.

Authorities initially recorded 116 passengers and 17 crew members on the manifest, but a review of boarding records and other evidence indicated that many more people may have been on board. Officials suspect illegal passenger loading and inaccurate records contributed to the confusion surrounding the number of missing people.

The death toll has continued to rise. After 27 bodies were recovered earlier, officials later confirmed that 41 people had died and 77 had been rescued, with search operations continuing for those still missing.

The investigation has also focused on possible crew negligence. The captain and another crew member tested positive for marijuana and remain in police custody as authorities examine whether safety failures played a role in the disaster.

The 87 year old MV Barima, which had undergone repairs in 2024, was scheduled for further major maintenance later this year. Guyana has deployed vessels, aircraft and divers, including support from French Guiana, as rescue teams shift toward recovery operations.

President Irfaan Ali called the incident a national tragedy and warned citizens to prepare for difficult days ahead as families await news about their missing relatives.