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VIDEO

Photo: 27A

Ferry Capsizes Off Cyprus With Hundreds Aboard

Golan Israel

By: Itzhak Abuhatzeira

Editor: Golan Israel

17 Elul 5786 (30.08.26)

The fast ferry Filo Jet overturned shortly after leaving Kyrenia port in northern Cyprus en route to Turkey. Hundreds of passengers and crew were on board as rescue operations continue.


A maritime emergency is unfolding off northern Cyprus: The fast ferry Filo Jet, which departed today (Sunday) from Kyrenia port bound for Taşucu, Turkey, capsized shortly after setting sail, about 1.2 miles from shore.

According to initial reports, more than 250 people were on board. Various reports put the number between 258 and 270 passengers and crew, though no official confirmation of the exact count has been released.

Footage from the scene shows the vessel overturned in the water with passengers waiting to be rescued. Coast guard boats, civilian vessels, and private company craft have been dispatched to the site and are working to evacuate passengers. Medical teams and ambulances have been placed on standby on shore.

According to one local report, the captain noticed water entering the front section of the vessel after leaving port and attempted to return, but the ship capsized during the attempt to get back to shore. The circumstances of the incident are still under investigation.

According to the company’s official sailing schedule, the Filo Jet was scheduled to depart today at 12:00 p.m. from Kyrenia to Taşucu.

No official or verified information on casualties or the number of people already rescued has been released. The rescue operation is ongoing and the situation continues to develop.