🔥 Trending Guyana Ferry Capsizes: What We Know So Far

On Saturday, July 19, 2026, a government-owned passenger ferry, the MV Barima, capsized off the coast of Guyana in South America ⁵⁷. The incident occurred while the ferry was en route from the capital, Georgetown, to Port Kaituma ¹⁷.

Details of the Incident

The MV Barima, an 86-year-old vessel, was reportedly struck by a large wave, causing it to overturn near Iron Punt ¹²⁴. A distress call was received at 11:01 p.m. local time ⁷.

Passenger and Crew Numbers

There are conflicting reports regarding the exact number of people on board:

• Some sources state the ferry was carrying 116 passengers and crew ¹³⁶⁷⁸.
• Other reports indicate 133 people were on board ²⁴⁵¹⁰.
• One source mentions 116 passengers and 17 crew, totaling 133 ⁹.

Rescue Efforts and Missing Persons

A large-scale search and rescue operation was immediately launched ³⁵⁸. As of Sunday, July 20, 2026, the number of rescued individuals also varies across reports:

• 53 people were rescued according to some authorities ¹⁷.
• Other reports state 67 people have been rescued ⁵⁹¹⁰.

Consequently, the number of missing persons also differs:

• News reports indicate 66 people were missing based on a total of 133 on board and 67 rescued ⁴.
• Dozens of people remain missing as rescue efforts continue in rough seas ³⁵¹⁰.

The vessel was reportedly equipped with 250 life jackets, two rigid lifeboats, and six inflatable life rafts ⁶. Guyana's Prime Minister Mark Phillips confirmed the incident and the ongoing rescue mission ³⁷.