Gov’t seeking contractors to salvage sunken MV Barima
August 1 2026
The Government of Guyana has moved to begin the salvage of the MV Barima, more than two weeks after the vessel capsized and sank on July 18, 2026, in one of the country’s deadliest maritime disasters.
More than 100 people are believed to have lost their lives in the tragedy. So far, 73 bodies have been recovered, while 30 persons remain unaccounted for as search and recovery efforts continue.
The move to salvage the vessel reportedly follows multiple calls from relatives, members of the public and other stakeholders for the wreck to be recovered and thoroughly examined.
Through the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), the Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation has invited qualified and experienced marine salvage contractors to submit Expressions of Interest for the recovery of the MV Barima.
According to the EOI notice, the vessel is currently lying as a wreck in soft mud in waters approximately 13 to 15 metres deep. MARAD has warned of poor visibility at the wreck site, as well as strong currents and tidal streams that could complicate the operation.
The salvage process is expected to be particularly significant as Guyana continues its efforts to establish exactly what led to the disaster.
Contractors have been asked to outline how they would protect and document forensic evidence during the salvage operation for use by the Commission of Inquiry established to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The MV Barima disaster has triggered widespread public concern, grief and protests, with growing calls for accountability over the circumstances surrounding the sinking.
Sections of the public and opposition groups have also called for the resignation of Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill and Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar, citing alleged failures in oversight and responsibility connected to the tragedy.
The Government has maintained that the ongoing Commission of Inquiry will independently examine the circumstances surrounding the disaster and make findings and recommendations.
Meanwhile, the search and recovery operation remains ongoing as authorities continue efforts to account for those still missing.
The deadline for submissions is close of business on Friday, August 14, 2026. Late submissions may not be considered.
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