Passenger Retrieved After Falling Overboard from Spirit of Vancouver Island Ferry – 3 September 2025

On 3 September 2025, a man-overboard emergency was declared aboard the Spirit of Vancouver Island ferry shortly after departing from Tsawwassen Terminal bound for Swartz Bay. The passenger fell overboard around 1:00 p.m. local time; quick action by crew and assistance from the nearby Queen of New Westminster ferry resulted in successful retrieval within minutes. The individual was transferred to paramedics upon return to Tsawwassen and reported in stable condition.

BC Ferries commended the professionalism of crew members and first responders for their effective emergency response. The incident caused approximately one hour's delay to the Tsawwassen–Swartz Bay service.

The man-overboard incident occurred shortly after the vessel departed Tsawwassen. Emergency procedures were immediately enacted, including a full stop of the ferry and deployment of crew to coordinate recovery efforts. The nearby Queen of New Westminster ferry assisted in the search and rescue operation. The passenger was located and retrieved from the water by ferry crew within a short timeframe. Upon return to Tsawwassen, the individual was transferred to paramedics who provided immediate medical care.

Fatalities

• None reported.

Injuries

• None reported.

Rescued

• 1 passenger retrieved from the water and transferred to paramedics in stable condition.

Upon the man-overboard declaration, the ferry was brought to a full stop and crew were deployed to coordinate recovery efforts. The Queen of New Westminster, a nearby BC Ferries vessel, assisted in the search and rescue operation. Paramedics provided immediate medical care to the passenger upon return to Tsawwassen. Witnesses reported seeing staff move quickly to slow the vessel, position themselves along decks, and deploy life-saving equipment.

"BC Ferries acknowledges the incident and thanks passengers for their composure during the emergency response. The professionalism of crew members, first responders, and support staff handled the situation effectively." — BC Ferries

The passenger was reported in stable condition following paramedic care. The incident caused approximately one hour's delay to the Tsawwassen–Swartz Bay route. Normal service operations have resumed.