Guyana has taken a major step in improving its transportation network with the arrival of the country’s first double-ended ferry, the MV ARIS IV, which will operate on the Parika-Supenaam route. The vessel arrived at the Demerara Sugar Terminal on Thursday evening, sailing from Piraeus, Greece, and is expected to enhance travel efficiency and reduce congestion on one of the country’s busiest waterways.
The MV ARIS IV is expected to alleviate long-standing congestion on the route, particularly during the Christmas season. Capable of carrying 81 cars or 19 large European-type trucks and over 300 passengers, the vessel travels at 10 knots and offers air-conditioned crew quarters, restrooms, a bar, and new seating areas.
“The Guyanese people are able at this time to be ready for the Christmas season in terms of travel in our waterways, in the air and on land, that their woes of waiting for the next ferry because of an inadequate amount of space are being resolved…” Minister Edghill stated.
Highlighting the vessel’s condition, the minister noted that the MV ARIS IV, though five years old, is “practically brand new” compared with much of the existing fleet, many of which are between 20 and 40 years old. Apart from the MV MA Lisha, delivered two years ago, the new ferry represents a significant upgrade for the Parika-Supenaam route.
Minister Edghill also commended Maritime Administration (MARAD) Director General Steven Thomas for his role in procuring, shipping, and delivering the vessel to Guyanese citizens.
