One dead and more than 30 missing after ferry sinks off Vanuatu coast in rough seas

Prime minister's office tells families of those missing the nation stands with you' as search and rescue efforts continue

One person has died and more than 30 are missing after a ferry sank off the coast of Vanuatu, the country's government says.

The vessel, MV Matui, had set sail with more than 40 passengers and crew on Friday from the island of Santo to Ambae island in very rough seas, but did not arrive.