The sinking of the MV Barima on Saturday night has left the Moonsammy family devastated, with four of Helena Moonsammy's grandchildren still missing.

Moonsammy, who survived the disaster, is still struggling to process the events that unfolded during the journey to Region One. Eight of her relatives, including young children, were travelling together when the vessel encountered difficulties and capsized off the Pomeroon coast.

Moonsammy said many passengers had already settled in for the night when panic erupted as the vessel was overwhelmed by powerful waves and began to sink within moments, forcing passengers to scramble for safety.

She said the experience reminded her of scenes from the film Titanic, as frightened passengers searched frantically for loved ones in the darkness, adding that several people became trapped inside parts of the vessel before finding a way to escape.

Moonsammy remains heartbroken over the fate of her grandchildren, four of whom have not yet been located. Family members said she has been inconsolable since arriving ashore and has sought medical treatment as she copes with the trauma.

Samantha Ramitt, whose children were travelling with their grandmother, said the family had been looking forward to spending time together in Region One. Instead, the trip ended in tragedy, leaving relatives anxiously awaiting word from rescue teams.

Ramitt said only one member of the Moonsammy family has been rescued so far, while the others remain missing. She said she continues to hold onto hope that her children will be found alive.

The family has vowed to remain near the search area as rescue and recovery operations continue.