UPDATE: Search Intensifies After MV Barima Sinks Off Guyana’s Coast

GEORGETOWN, Guyana (July 20, 2026) – The search for survivors has intensified after the passenger ferry MV Barima sank off Guyana’s North Atlantic coast late Saturday, with authorities now fearing that dozens of people may have died in one of the country’s worst maritime disasters.

The ferry, which was travelling from Georgetown to Port Kaituma, was carrying 133 people—116 passengers and 17 crew members—when it capsized about seven miles offshore after issuing a distress call at approximately 11:01 p.m.

Officials say 67 people, including 15 children, have been rescued, but no additional survivors had been located as of the latest updates. Search teams, supported by the Guyana Defence Force, Coast Guard, private vessels, aircraft, helicopters, divers, and assistance from oil and gas operators, have expanded the search area to more than 1,000 square kilometres.

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill confirmed that the captain and several crew members are in police custody as investigators examine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. Authorities are also investigating reports of an inaccurate passenger manifest, after officials disclosed that many of those rescued were not listed on the vessel’s official passenger manifest. Initial reports also indicate that the captain and at least one crew member tested positive for marijuana.

Prime Minister Mark Phillips said the government remains committed to locating everyone who was aboard the vessel and pledged a full investigation into the incident, including any failures in safety procedures or oversight. Family support centres have been established in Georgetown and Port Kaituma to assist relatives awaiting news of loved ones.

The MV Barima is a vital transport link between Georgetown and communities in Guyana’s North West District. The cause of the sinking remains under investigation.

Sources: Reuters, Associated Press, News Room Guyana.