Death toll rises to 14 following ferry sinking off Kyrenia coast

A passenger ferry sank off the coast of Kyrenia, Cyprus, last Sunday, resulting in a large-scale search-and-rescue operation. As of September 6, 2026, the confirmed death toll has reached 14, with recovery teams successfully retrieving bodies from the wreckage throughout the week. Turkish Cypriot ‘prime minister’ Unal Ustel confirmed that 14 individuals remain unaccounted for, while rescue teams continue their efforts around the clock using air, sea, and underwater assets.

Following the maritime disaster, 132 victims were initially hospitalized, with all but one discharged as of September 5. The sole remaining patient is reportedly in improving condition, and no victims remain in intensive care. Authorities have acknowledged that recovery conditions inside the sunken vessel are becoming increasingly difficult, prompting officials to seek new resources and alternative methods to locate the missing persons. Families of the victims continue to gather at the new port of Kyrenia awaiting news.

Search efforts are ongoing, supported by resources from Turkey and various local services. Officials have maintained a commitment to continue operations until all missing individuals are located, despite the logistical challenges posed by the sea conditions and the state of the wreckage.