Guyana welcomes modern ferry to improve travel and regional connectivity

Guyana on Thursday officially welcomed the ARIS IV, a modern passenger-and-vehicle ferry that travelled more than 5,200 nautical miles from Greece, providing a major boost to the nation’s public transport system and regional connectivity.

The vessel’s arrival represents a key step in the government’s ongoing efforts to modernise travel, enhance economic movement between regions, and improve daily life for citizens.

The ARIS IV sailed into Georgetown under the command of Captain Luigi, whose crew completed the month-long voyage powered solely by the ship’s own engines.

The ferry, described as a “game changer” for coastal and river transport, will operate on the busy Parika–Supenaam route—one of Guyana’s most heavily trafficked corridors connecting Regions Two and Three.

Public Works Minister, Bishop Juan Edghill, led the official welcome, saying the ARIS IV fulfills a promise made by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali.

“This ship is a commitment made to the people of Guyana to improve transit and the movement of goods and services between Regions Two and Three,” the minister said, emphasising that the vessel brings expanded capacity, safer travel, and modern comfort.

He added that the ferry can hold hundreds of passengers and more than 80 vehicles, easing long-standing travel delays—especially during the peak Christmas season.

Minister Edghill also credited Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) Director General Stephen Thomas for overseeing the procurement and delivery, acknowledging the logistical and technical work required to bring the vessel safely to Guyana.

Captain Luigi described the voyage as challenging but smooth overall, despite a weeklong delay caused by Atlantic weather systems.

“We were quite lucky with the weather… within one month, it’s very quick,” he said, noting the strength and stability of the vessel throughout the journey.

Officials from the Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) and MARAD toured the ship’s modern design, including upgraded passenger spaces, a bar area, crew quarters, and the bridge—highlighting features that elevate Guyana’s transport fleet to international standards.

According to the T&HD Advisory Board Chair, the ARIS IV positions Guyana to expand routes and improve overall service delivery.

A second vessel is already en route to serve Region One as part of the government’s broader modernisation push.

The ARIS IV will undergo final inspections and preparations before its official launch from the Parika terminal in the coming days.