Guyana formally opens backtrack route to Suriname due to ferry’s absence

Last Updated on Tuesday, 25 August 2026, 20:40 by Writer

The Guyana government on Tuesday indicated that it has officially opened the backtrack route from Springlands to Nickerie, after the Maritime Authority of Suriname (MAS) refused an offer of an alternative vessel to ply the Corentyne River route.

“Immigration service is still provided to persons travelling to Suriname by small boats. Such persons are required to report to the immigration office at the Moleson Creek Terminal for immigration processing upon departure,” the Guyana government said in a statement.

The government further advised travellers that on arrival in Suriname, they must report to the immigration office in New Nickerie.

When departing Suriname, persons must report to the respective immigration offices there and in Guyana, the government further said.

The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) had more than one year ago reinforced the closure of the Guyana end of the back-track route although Suriname recognises New Nickerie as a legal port of entry and exit.

The decisions by the Guyana government to relax prohibition of the back-track route followed MAS’ order last Friday that the joint venture-owned MV Canawaima ferry must be taken into drydock for mandatory maintenance.

That was despite advice by experts, according to the Guyana government, that the vessel could have remained in operation a little longer.

“In recent days two technical inspections were carried out by maritime experts from both Guyana and Suriname on the M.V. Canawaima. Both countries’ experts concluded that the vessel can remain in operation until it goes into drydock within the next three months. Despite these assurances which were provided in writing the Maritime Authority in Suriname (MAS) insisted that certain matters which would have been addressed during drydocking, should be undertaken immediately.”

Guyana says responsibility for maintenance and drydocking of the M.V Canawaima falls under Suriname.

The Guyana government on Tuesday did not say if MAS gave any reasons for turning down this country’s offer of an alternative vessel, but said another boat would be proposed or that the MV Canawaima resume work temporarily.

“Thus far, the proposal of an alternative vessel to operate the route was turned down by MAS. Despite this, the Government is seeking to propose another alternative vessel to the Surinamese authorities, even as engagements continue simultaneously with MAS to ensure the current service can resume even on a short-term basis,” the Guyana government said.

Assuring the public that since the beginning of the MV Canawaima’s suspension, Guyanese officials have been in constant and daily contact with their Surinamese counterparts to resolve the issue and have the service resume operations.

The government said it supports safe travel of the public and maintains that public safety is priority.

At the same time, the inconvenience this situation is causing to users of the service is fully understood, government said.