Travellers at sea off Solomon Islands await supplies as MV Awka rescue mobilised

More than 70 passengers are stranded at sea in Solomon Islands aboard the vessel MV Awka after the ship's engine failed. Aircraft and vessels have been mobilised to deliver essential supplies to those on board as rescue efforts continue.

Key facts

• Vessel involved: MV Awka
• More than 70 passengers are on board
• The ship's engine failed, leaving it stranded at sea in Solomon Islands
• Aircraft and vessels have been mobilised to deliver essential supplies
• Rescue efforts were under way on 11 October 2026

What happened?

The MV Awka suffered an engine failure while at sea in Solomon Islands, leaving more than 70 passengers stranded aboard the vessel. Rescue efforts were under way as of 11 October 2026, when the incident was reported.

What response is under way?

Aircraft and vessels have been mobilised to reach the MV Awka and deliver essential supplies to the passengers on board. No details were given on which aircraft or vessels are taking part in the operation.

What has not been disclosed?

The report does not state where the MV Awka is located, how long the vessel has been stranded, whether anyone on board has been injured or is unwell, how many crew members are aboard, or when passengers are expected to be brought ashore. No official body or spokesperson is named in connection with the rescue operation.

What this means for travellers

Anyone planning inter-island sea travel in Solomon Islands may wish to check for service updates before departure, as vessels in the area are being used in the response to this incident. The source provides no information on any wider disruption to ferry services.

No timeline for the passengers' return to shore has been announced.