By AFP

Published July 19, 2026

Ferry accidents have historically posed significant risks in Guyana, where water transport is essential for connecting remote communities.

Rescuers in Guyana are racing to find dozens of people missing at sea after a ferry carrying 116 passengers and crew capsized off the country’s coast, according to local authorities.

The MV Barima sent a distress signal around 11 p.m. Saturday (0300 GMT Sunday) before overturning close to Iron Punt during its journey from Georgetown, Guyana's capital, to Port Kaituma.

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Guyana’s Prime Minister Mark Phillips told the AFP news agency on Sunday that 53 people had been rescued. He said authorities expected to rescue more people as the search operation progresses during daylight hours.

Guyana's coastguard and private ships are participating in the rescue operation, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill confirmed.

Edghill said the ferry was equipped with some 250 life jackets, eight lifeboats and other safety gear.

He added that a medical team was being dispatched to the search area to treat people “as soon as they are rescued”.

“There is an active search and rescue operation that is taking place, and we pray for the safety of all,” Edghill said in a video post shared on Facebook.

The circumstances surrounding the boat accident were not immediately clear.

As daylight hours expand the search window, rescue teams are working to locate any remaining survivors. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about maritime safety and emergency preparedness in Guyana's ferry services.