A tourist passenger boat sinks on February 13, 2026, on the Amazon River near Manaus in Brazil’s Amazonas state, killing 2 people and leaving 7 others missing as emergency crews rescue dozens of survivors and launch a large-scale search operation.
The vessel goes down near the Meeting of the Waters, where the Rio Negro and Rio Solimões converge, while traveling from Manaus toward Nova Olinda do Norte, prompting responses from the Brazilian Navy, fire brigade units, and river patrol teams amid ongoing rescue efforts.
Rescue operations continue as survivors are pulled from river
Authorities report that 71 passengers are rescued by nearby boats shortly after the vessel capsizes and sinks. Four survivors are taken to hospitals in Manaus, with two later discharged and two remaining in stable condition under medical observation.
Officials confirm that among the fatalities are a 3-year-old girl and a 22-year-old woman, while search teams continue to look for 7 missing passengers using divers, patrol boats, and aircraft scanning the river corridor.
The Brazilian Navy coordinates river traffic in the area to support rescue operations and prevent further incidents as emergency crews search along the riverbanks and submerged sections of the vessel.
Investigation launched into cause of sinking
Authorities detain the boat’s operator as part of an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. Officials are examining whether overloading, weather conditions, mechanical failure, or navigation errors contributed to the sinking.
The Amazon River serves as a primary transportation route for both residents and tourists traveling between remote communities and river cities, with passenger boats frequently operating long-distance journeys across the region.
Accidents involving river vessels remain a recurring safety concern in parts of northern Brazil, where enforcement standards vary and waterways serve as essential transport corridors in areas with limited road access.
Officials say rescue efforts will continue until all missing passengers are located, while authorities assess safety protocols for tourist and passenger vessels operating along the Amazon River.
