Dozens missing after passenger ferry sinks as rescuers scour South Pacific coastline

A desperate search is underway in the South Pacific after a passenger ferry carrying dozens of people sank between two islands in Vanuatu, an island nation east of Australia.

At least one person has died and more than 30 others remain missing as search-and-rescue operations continue, according to a statement shared on Facebook by Vanuatu's Ministry of the Prime Minister.

MOM LOSES GRIP ON DAUGHTER AS PASSENGER FERRY CAPSIZES WITH 20 PEOPLE STILL MISSING The MV Matui was traveling between the islands of Ambae and Santo when it sank Friday, according to The Associated Press (AP).

It had 47 people on board.

Searchers rescued 15 survivors and recovered one body — but local authorities have now shifted their efforts toward the coastline as the hunt for the remaining passengers continues, AP reported.

Search efforts are being scaled back in open waters and shifted toward Vanuatu's southeastern coastline, where currents may have carried survivors, according to Matai Seremaiah, Parliament member for Luganville, the ministry said.

"Our hearts and prayers are with the families who have lost loved ones," the ministry wrote.

"To the survivors, we pray for your strength and recovery.

To the families of those missing and those we have lost, please know that the nation stands with you in this time of grief." CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER Retired Coast Guard Capt.

Aaron Davenport, based in Virginia, told Fox News Digital that several factors could determine the survival chances of those still missing.

Water temperature, injuries and access to flotation or other lifesaving equipment could all affect how long someone can survive after entering the water, Davenport said.

"They may be clinging to debris.

But as the days go on, the chances of survival are less and less," he said, adding that a lack of food and water, along with the risk of hypothermia, could reduce the chances of survival.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ The ministry noted that the tragedy likely resulted from ignored marine warnings about strong winds, along with the possibility that the vessel was overloaded.