More than 30 missing from ferry that sank in Vanuatu
A passenger ferry, MV Matui, sank off the Pacific Island nation of Vanuatu with 47 people on board, leaving over 30 missing after 15 survivors and one body were recovered. The incident, which occurred on September 11, 2026, is attributed to strong winds, unheeded marine warnings, and possible negligence including overloading.
Why it matters
This tragic incident highlights the critical importance of maritime safety regulations and adherence to weather warnings, especially in regions prone to severe conditions, underscoring the devastating human cost when such protocols are neglected.
A search in waters off the Pacific Island nation of Vanuatu continued Monday (September 14, 2026) for more than 30 people who officials said were missing after a passenger ferry sank.
The ferry MV Matui was travelling between the islands of Ambae and Santo with 47 people on board when it sank on Friday (September 11), local news outlets reported. Searchers in boats pulled 15 survivors from the water over the weekend, a statement from the Prime Minister's office said.
One body was also recovered, according to the statement, while more than 30 people were still missing. The search would now focus on a coastline where currents might have carried survivors, rather than on open waters.
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