Filo Jet Sinking: 8 Dead, 18 Missing Off Cyprus Coast

The Filo Jet ferry sinking off the coast of Northern Cyprus on 30 August 2026 has left at least eight people dead and eighteen others missing, according to Turkish Cypriot authorities. The catamaran, carrying 259 passengers and 8 crew members, capsized in rough seas shortly after departing from Kyrenia (Girne) for Taşucu, Turkey. Survivors described scenes of panic as water flooded the vessel and crew members fled first.

Context: Ferry Travel in Northern Cyprus

Ferry crossings between Northern Cyprus and mainland Turkey are common during summer, carrying residents and tourists. The Filo Jet belonged to Filo Denizcilik, a company operating in the region. Cyprus ferry travel safety has long been a topic of discussion among locals and authorities.

What Happened to the Filo Jet Ferry?

The voyage was originally scheduled for 29 August but was postponed due to severe weather. On 30 August, the sea remained wild when the fiberglass catamaran left Kyrenia at around 11:58 local time. Witnesses reported a huge impact as waves struck the vessel. 'There was a very big bang,' one passenger told CNN Türk. 'The shaking got worse and worse. During a second shock, water started coming through the bottom and people panicked.'

About 7.5 kilometers off the coast, the ship began taking on water. The cabin flooded, seats broke, and pressure caused the front section to explode. Passengers said the captain ignored warnings to turn back. 'They told us, You are not used to this, we are. It will be fine,' a survivor recalled.

Passengers Trapped Inside the Sinking Vessel

As the catamaran lost balance and tilted, people inside rushed toward the rear door but became trapped when the cabin submerged. One passenger who was near the door said it took 10 minutes of struggling to escape. 'I was in the water, so I was wet and heavier. My hand kept slipping. I heard screaming because many people were behind me.' After someone smashed a window, most of those trapped managed to get out.

Outside, people jumped overboard — including some who could not swim and had no life jackets. 'I saw people drowning who could not swim,' a witness said. A nearby water sports company, which had halted activities due to the rough sea, sent help. 'We did more than we could handle. People shouted take me too, but the capacity was full,' an employee said.

Crew Arrested and Investigation Launched

The captain and all seven crew members were arrested the same afternoon on suspicion of causing death by negligence. They appeared before a court in Girne on 31 August. Northern Cyprus maritime safety rules are now under scrutiny after the transport minister said the fiberglass vessel may have been old and defective.

Turkish Cypriot president Tufan Erhürman confirmed that 241 survivors were brought ashore. The ship sank to a depth of 514 meters, making recovery efforts difficult. The transport minister said specialized vessels and divers from Turkey would be needed to recover the data recorder.

Impact and Regional Reactions

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus declared three days of national mourning. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and other leaders offered condolences. The Republic of Cyprus government, through spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis, expressed readiness to assist in search and rescue. Eastern Mediterranean ferry safety has come under renewed focus following the disaster.

Ferry operator Filo Denizcilik said it was 'deeply saddened by the tragic accident.' The UN special representative in Cyprus, Khassim Diagne, also extended condolences. Search efforts continue for the 18 missing passengers, though authorities have not confirmed whether some remain inside the sunken hull.

FAQ: Filo Jet Sinking Near Cyprus

What caused the Filo Jet to sink?

Rough seas and large waves caused water to flood the catamaran. The vessel reportedly hit a wave, rolled, and capsized about 7.5 km off the coast. Investigators are also examining whether the old fiberglass boat had defects.

How many people were on board the Filo Jet?

There were 259 passengers and 8 crew members — 267 people in total. 241 survivors were rescued, 8 died, and 18 remain missing.

Where did the ferry sink?

The ferry sank off Diana Beach near Kyrenia, Northern Cyprus, at a depth of 514 meters (1,686 feet).

Was the crew arrested?

Yes. The captain and seven crew members were arrested on suspicion of causing death by negligence and appeared in court in Girne.

Why was the trip postponed?

The crossing was originally scheduled for 29 August but was postponed to 30 August because of severe weather. The sea remained rough on the day of departure.