Cyprus Ferry Disaster: Boat Carrying Nearly 270 People Capsizes in Mediterranean
Kyrenia, Northern Cyprus: A major maritime accident was reported off the coast of Northern Cyprus on Sunday after a passenger ferry carrying nearly 270 people capsized in the Mediterranean Sea.
The ferry had departed from Kyrenia (Girne) Port and was heading towards Taşucu in Turkey’s Mersin province. Authorities said the vessel began taking in water shortly after leaving the port.
According to the latest reports, the ferry was carrying 259 passengers and eight crew members, bringing the total number of people on board to 267.
At least seven people have died in the accident, while dozens of others were initially reported missing. Rescue teams have managed to bring 237 people to safety, according to Northern Cyprus officials.
A large-scale search and rescue operation is underway in the area. Turkish Cypriot and Turkish coast guard vessels have been deployed to the scene.
Helicopters and civilian boats are also assisting the rescue effort. Authorities are continuing to search the surrounding waters and the overturned vessel for missing passengers.
Ferry Capsized Shortly After Departure
The ferry reportedly began taking in water about four nautical miles off Kyrenia. Some passengers were seen wearing life jackets and waiting on or near the overturned vessel.
Officials have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the accident. Adverse weather and rough sea conditions were reported in the region around the time of the incident.
Authorities have launched an emergency response and are prioritising the rescue of passengers who may still be missing.
The incident has triggered shock across Northern Cyprus, while emergency teams continue their efforts to locate survivors and establish the full circumstances surrounding the ferry disaster.
SEO Title: Cyprus Ferry Capsizes: Boat Carrying 267 People Sinks Near Kyrenia
Meta Description: A ferry carrying nearly 270 people capsized off Northern Cyprus while travelling from Kyrenia to Turkey. Seven people died and a major rescue operation is underway.
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Keywords: Cyprus ferry accident, Kyrenia ferry sinking, Northern Cyprus boat accident, Mediterranean Sea ferry accident, Kyrenia to Turkey ferry, Cyprus boat capsizes, ferry rescue operation, Taşucu ferry accident
Tags: Cyprus Ferry Accident, Northern Cyprus, Kyrenia, Girne, Mediterranean Sea, Turkey, Taşucu, Ferry Disaster, Coast Guard, Search and Rescue