Filo Jet Survivors Describe Fight for Survival as Kyrenia Ferry Disaster Leaves Eight Dead

Passengers aboard the Filo Jet described a desperate struggle after the catamaran began taking on water off Kyrenia, with survivors alleging that the crew failed to provide life jackets.

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We are used to it, this is normal

The latest reported toll stands at eight dead and 241 rescued, while 267 people were reportedly aboard. Survivors have been taken to hospitals. Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhürman said their health condition was not seriously concerning.

Passenger İbrahim Kanbolat said the crew responded to warnings that water was entering the vessel by saying, “We are used to it, this is normal.” He said the flooding worsened, part of the side broke, and the vessel quickly began to list. An employee reportedly instructed passengers to run toward the rear, but Kanbolat said no one received a life jacket.

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Everyone should run toward the rear

Kanbolat, who was rescued by a private boat, said passengers had to save themselves even though children and people unable to swim were on board. Another survivor, Efe Multici, told CNN Türk that some passengers jumped into the sea without life rings or life jackets. “It was literally a fight for survival,” he said.

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Each person survived by their own efforts

Multici said the vessel began taking on water about 20 to 25 minutes after leaving Kyrenia, around noon local time. The departure had already been delayed because of strong winds. The catamaran has been located at a depth of 514 metres, and investigators consider recovering its black box important to clarifying the cause of the sinking.

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It was literally a fight for survival