Guyana, Suriname agree to substitute vessel for Corentyne crossing as Canawaima goes into drydock

Last Updated on Thursday, 5 November 2026, 21:24 by Written By Denis Chabrol

Suriname has agreed that Guyana would provide a barge, MB Sandaka, to ply the Corentyne River crossing while the ferry,MV Canawaima, goes into drydock.

The MV Canawaima  is expected to undergo major repairs from September 7.  Guyana’s Public Works Minister Juan Edghill, when contacted, said how long the MV Canawaima would be out of service depends on examination of the vessel and procurement of supplies.

“The Government of Guyana will provide a vessel, the MB Sandaka, to ensure the
continuous movement of people and goods between Moleson Creek, Guyana, and
South Drain, Suriname,” the Public Works Ministry said in a statement. The barge begins operations on November 7, the ministry said.

The Ministers responsible for the relevant portfolios in both Guyana and Suriname
have engaged in discussions aimed at finding a solution to ensure the continuity of
this essential service, the Public Works Ministry said.

“The maritime authorities of both countries have also been working collaboratively to address the matter,” the Ministry added. Earlier this year, the Maritime Aurhority of Suriname ordered the Canawaima to cease operations due to wide-ranging safety concerns. The vessel resumed operations days later because passengers were stranded at the stellings in both countries but did not undergo much-needed repairs and rehabilitation.

Through a European Union-funded project, the MV Canawaima ferry was purchased and began operations in 1998.

Due to expected heightened economic activity due to oil and gas discoveries in Suriname, the government there has floated the idea of replacing the MV Canawaima with two new ferries.