The Maritime Administration Department is seeking marine salvage contractors to recover the wreck of the MV Barima, the passenger and cargo ferry that sank off the Essequibo Coast on July 18.
The ferry was carrying an estimated 179 people when it capsized. The confirmed death toll has since risen to 73, with 76 people rescued and 30 still listed as missing.
The vessel lies in soft mud at a depth of about 13 to 15 metres, at approximate coordinates of 07°28′.213 North, 058°23′.443 West, MARAD said. Visibility at the site is poor, with strong currents and tidal streams requiring robust procedures and equipment.
The ferry measures about 38.6 metres in length overall, with an 8.9-metre beam and 2.9-metre depth, and is fitted with twin Caterpillar C18 diesel main engines and Caterpillar diesel generator sets, MARAD said.
MARAD said it was seeking companies with a proven track record of vessel recovery in Guyanese or wider Caribbean waters, particularly in environments with strong currents and restricted visibility.
Interested firms must submit corporate profiles, evidence of relevant experience over the past five to 10 years, and a proposed technical approach for the salvage, with emphasis on protecting and documenting forensic evidence for the Commission of Inquiry, MARAD said. Bidders should also outline environmental protection measures, key personnel and equipment, an indicative timeline, and the ability to stow the vessel upright on a barge for several weeks.
Firms must confirm their capacity to operate under “no cure, no pay” or other commercial agreements, and provide statements on insurance coverage and compliance with Guyana’s maritime, procurement and occupational safety regulations, according to the notice.
Expressions of interest, not exceeding 10 pages excluding appendices, should be submitted electronically in PDF format to procurement@marad.gov.gy by close of business on Friday, 14 August. Late submissions may not be considered.
Following its review, MARAD said it reserves the right to shortlist firms and issue a detailed request for proposals to selected companies only, and does not bind itself to accept any expression of interest.
