Divers join northern Cyprus ferry search as death toll rises to eight

Divers joined the search for survivors off northern Cyprus on Monday, August 31, 2026, as the confirmed death toll from a capsized passenger ferry rose to eight and officials reported that 18 or 19 people remained missing.

The double-hulled ferry, carrying 267 passengers and crew, overturned on Sunday shortly after leaving Kyrenia for Taşucu in Turkey’s Mersin province. Survivors clung to the upturned vessel before passing ships and coastguard teams reached them.

The Guardian reported that Turkish divers were assisting the operation. Authorities gave slightly different missing-person totals, with some officials citing 18 and others 19. The vessel was reported to be on the seabed at a depth of more than 500 metres, and officials had not established whether anyone remained trapped inside.

Authorities detained the captain and crew for questioning as investigators examined accounts that the ferry jolted violently before striking the water and suffering damage near its bow. No official cause had been announced.

The latest figures update earlier official accounts that six people had died and 24 were missing. Search and casualty numbers in maritime disasters can change as passenger lists are reconciled and rescue teams confirm recoveries.