Guyana-Suriname ferry service resumes after suspension
Key Points(5)
- Ferry service between Guyana and Suriname resumed on Friday after authorities lifted a temporary ban on the M.V.
- Canawaima following technical inspections.
- The Guyana government said the vessel was cleared to return to service after meeting requirements set by the Maritime Authority of Suriname (MAS).
- The ferry will operate according to its regular schedule, with priority initially being given to passengers who were left stranded during the suspension.
- “The top priority today will be transporting stranded passengers,” the government said.
Ferry service between Guyana and Suriname resumed on Friday after authorities lifted a temporary ban on the M.V. Canawaima following technical inspections.
The Guyana government said the vessel was cleared to return to service after meeting requirements set by the Maritime Authority of Suriname (MAS).
The ferry will operate according to its regular schedule, with priority initially being given to passengers who were left stranded during the suspension.
“The top priority today will be transporting stranded passengers,” the government said.
The suspension had disrupted travel between the neighboring South American countries, where the ferry provides an important transportation link for passengers and vehicles.
According to the government, Guyanese and Surinamese officials worked over several days to address the safety and structural requirements necessary for the vessel to resume operations.
“Representatives worked tirelessly over the past several days with its Surinamese counterparts to ensure all safety and structural compliance were met so the ferry can return to service at the soonest possible time,” the government said.
Authorities in both countries are expected to continue discussions on plans to eventually take the M.V. Canawaima into dry dock for further work.
A replacement vessel is expected to be secured before the Canawaima is taken out of service to minimize further disruption to travelers.
“During this period, Guyana and Suriname will continue discussions for the subsequent drydocking of the M.V. Canawaima and a replacement vessel to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted flow of the ferry service,” the government said.
