Port Vila: A ferry has sunk in rough seas between two islands in northern Vanuatu, leaving at least one person dead and more than 30 missing as rescuers continue searching for survivors.

The MV Matui was carrying 45 people, including 34 passengers and 11 crew members, when it sank on Friday while travelling between the islands of Ambae and Santo, according to Vanuatu authorities and local reports. Fifteen people have been rescued alive and one body has been recovered.

Search teams initially focused on open waters around the area where the vessel went down. Authorities are now reducing the offshore search and concentrating efforts along the southeastern coast, where ocean currents may have carried survivors or people from the wreck.

Local communities have also been asked to watch the coastline and assist if survivors are found. At least one survivor reportedly managed to reach shore after swimming through the rough conditions, while rescuers have continued using boats and aircraft to locate others.

Vanuatu’s government said the sinking appeared to have occurred amid strong winds and after marine warnings were not heeded. It also raised the possibility of negligence, including overloading of the vessel, but stressed that a full investigation would be conducted to establish what happened.

The incident has prompted an international search effort. The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in New Caledonia and French military aircraft have provided assistance, while local rescue teams continue efforts along the coast.

Vanuatu is an island nation in the South Pacific where ferries and other vessels play an important role in connecting communities spread across its many islands. The accident has therefore renewed concerns about maritime safety, particularly when vessels operate during dangerous weather.

For families still waiting for news, the search has entered a critical phase. With rescuers moving from open water to the coastline, the coming hours could determine whether more passengers are found alive.