The Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) has invited qualified marine salvage contractors to submit expressions of interest for the recovery of the wrecked MV Barima.
The state-owned ferry capsized on July 18 while it was travelling from Georgetown to Port Kaituma. The disaster claimed dozens of lives and prompted the government to establish an international commission of inquiry to examine the circumstances that caused the tragedy.
According to the invitation issued by MARAD under the Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation, the passenger and cargo ferry is lying in soft mud at a depth of approximately 13-15 meters (42-49 feet). The department said the wreck site is characterized by poor visibility, strong currents and tidal streams, requiring robust salvage procedures and specialized equipment.
The MV Barima measures approximately 38.6 meters (127 feet) in length, with a beam of 8.9 meters (29 feet) and a depth of 2.9 meters (9.5 feet). It is fitted with twin Caterpillar C18 diesel main engines and Caterpillar diesel generator sets.
MARAD is seeking companies with a proven track record of successful vessel salvage operations in Guyanese or wider Caribbean waters, particularly in environments with restricted visibility and strong currents.
Interested firms must provide details of their corporate profile, evidence of relevant salvage experience over the past five to 10 years, proposed technical methodology, environmental protection measures, key personnel and equipment, and an indicative timeline for the operation.
The successful contractor will also be expected to outline measures for protecting and documenting forensic evidence that could be used by the commission of inquiry investigating the tragedy. Companies must additionally demonstrate the ability to store the recovered vessel upright on a barge for several weeks.
The government said it has already received some international salvage offers.
