30.08.2026 14:50
A catamaran-type passenger vessel carrying 267 people capsized off Kyrenia in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus after taking on water. All hospitals and ambulances in the region have been put on alert, while the Coast Guard and nearby boats are conducting a critical search and rescue operation against time at sea. Helicopters are also supporting the search and rescue efforts.
Off the coast of Girne in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, a catamaran-type passenger ship carrying 267 people took on water and capsized. Coast Guard teams, civilian boats, and helicopters are continuing an intensive search and rescue operation at sea. The teams are racing against time.
BEGAN TAKING ON WATER FROM THE BOW
The catamaran-type passenger ship belonging to Filo Denizcilik company began rapidly taking on water from its bow for an undetermined reason while sailing approximately 2 to 2.5 kilometers off the coast of Girne. Noticing the adverse situation, the ship's captain quickly turned the course toward the port and made an emergency return maneuver. However, due to the vessel losing its balance, the captain's efforts were futile, and the ship sank and capsized.
RACING AGAINST TIME WITH HEARTS IN THEIR MOUTHS
While Coast Guard search and rescue teams quickly arrived at the scene, numerous civilian boats of various sizes in the vicinity also rushed to the area to rescue passengers from the sea. As multifaceted search and rescue efforts involving teams and volunteer sailors continue unabated, helicopters have also joined the operations.
159 PASSENGERS RESCUED
Girne Mayor Murat Şenkul, speaking via phone on CNN Türk, announced that 159 passengers have been rescued so far and that search and rescue efforts for the remaining passengers are ongoing.
The moments when rescued passengers were brought to shore were reflected on camera moment by moment.