The Pleasure of Traveling Aboard the MV Torani

Published: 13th of March, 2025 by Patrick Carpen.

Last updated: March 13, 2025 at 21:33 pm

Having been born on the eastern end of the county of Berbice, I’ve had to travel on many occasions to the capital city of Georgetown, or other locations on the western side of the Berbice River. The Berbice river separates East Berbice from West Berbice. To reach Georgetown from my hometown of Rose Hall Town in the Corentyne, one had to cross the Berbice river. Up to the time of completion of the Berbice River Bridge in late 2008, crossing the Berbice River meant boarding the majestic MV Torani.

The MV Torani was a classical riverboat built by British engineering and shipbuilding firm, Sprostons Ltd, in the late 1950s. It was completed and took to the waters in 1960s. Sprostons also built the very similar MV Malali which was completed a few years later, among many others.

These classic boats, relics of British colonial rule, hold a special place in the hearts of many people. They were strong, durable, sturdy, and can carry heavy weight. They plied the waters of Guyana’s rivers for decades, taking people, goods, and vehicles from one side of the river to the other.

Sailing across the river on the likes of the MV Torani brought unique pleasure. We often made new friends or caught up with old friends during the trip. Standing on the deck and looking down on the river below was especially soothing. With the wind in your face and the magnificent scenery all around you, a special joy swept through the heart. Traveling on the Torani in the evening was especially enjoyable. One looks down on the mysterious waters and outward to the lights of the city beyond the harbor and felt a sense of pure joy.

Traveling on the big boat did come with its setbacks. You’d have to join a long line and sometimes wait hours to board. But the pleasure of riding aboard the Queen of the waters made it worth the while.

Today, there are just a few of these classic boats left plying the waters of Guyana. They have been replaced by faster modes of transportation such as bridges, or inferior, newer boats. Hop on the likes of the Torani and Kimbia while you still can, and enjoy a timeless pleasure that might soon be lost in the rivers of time.

The Ultimate Fate of the MV Torani

The introduction of the Berbice River Bridge in December 2008 marked a turning point, rendering the Torani and similar ferries less essential. Consequently, the vessel was redeployed to the Essequibo River to continue its service.

By 2012, the Torani experienced significant mechanical issues, leading to its decommissioning and mooring at the Mazaruni dock. There, it was cannibalized for spare parts to maintain other vessels, such as the MV Makouria and MV Malali.

In August 2017, the Torani began taking on water due to a leak, causing it to partially sink near the left bank of the Mazaruni River, close to the Timehri docks. Efforts were initiated to salvage the vessel, but its deteriorated condition posed challenges.

The Torani holds a cherished place in the memories of many Guyanese, symbolizing an era when river ferries were integral to daily life and commerce. Its legacy reflects the evolution of transportation infrastructure in Guyana and the enduring connection between its people and waterways.