Overview
- The MV Matui capsized while traveling between Santo and Ambae, sinking on Friday morning with about 47 people reported aboard.
- Rescuers have pulled roughly 14–15 people from the water and recovered one body while more than 30 remain unaccounted for as searches continue.
- Authorities say strong winds and ignored marine warnings likely contributed to the disaster and they have opened a formal investigation that will examine loading, the passenger manifest and crew decisions.
- Search-and-rescue efforts have moved from open water to the southeastern coastline on the view that currents may have carried people ashore and the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in New Caledonia plus a French aircraft are assisting local teams.
- Two young siblings who swam toward Santo were rescued by the superyacht Lunaris and are recovering in Luganville hospital as families and survivors receive medical and emotional support.