One of PNG’s Worst Maritime Tragedies Since 2012

Boats Capsize off East New Britain, Leaving 27 Missing

“This is one of the most tragic maritime incidents we have seen since the Rabaul Queen disaster.”
— East New Britain Governor Michael Marum

The Incident

On July 18, 2023, two boats carrying 27 people — including families with young children — capsized in rough seas off the coast of East New Britain, Papua New Guinea. The vessels were returning from Pangpang Beach Resort to Kokopo when they overturned in the Bismarck Sea.

Nine bodies have since been recovered in New Ireland Province. Authorities have shifted from search-and-rescue to recovery operations.

Survivors and Desperate Drift

Two boat operators survived the capsizing. They drifted for six hours before reaching the shore at Baai village, exhausted but alive.

Brutal Conditions Hamper Recovery

Governor Byron Chan reported that dangerous conditions — including strong winds and rough seas — are severely complicating the recovery effort. The Papua New Guinea Defence Force Navy has been formally requested to assist with larger, more seaworthy vessels.

The PNG National Weather Service has issued strong wind warnings for the Bismarck Sea.

Outrage and Demands for Action

Fisheries Minister Jelta Wong has called for an immediate and strict enforcement of safety regulations, including:

• Compulsory GPS tracking devices on all passenger boats
• Mandatory life jackets for every person onboard

Authorities have ruled out piracy as a factor in the disaster.