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Introduction
BC Ferries faced back-to-back man-overboard incidents on its busiest route between Swartz Bay (Victoria) and Tsawwassen (Vancouver) in early September 2025. The unusual occurrence involved two separate passengers entering the water on consecutive days, prompting swift rescue responses from ferry crews and the Canadian Coast Guard.
Details of the Incidents
First Incident – September 3:
- During the 1:00 p.m. sailing aboard the Spirit of Vancouver Island, a passenger fell overboard near the Tsawwassen terminal.
- Union representatives later stated the passenger was attempting to retrieve clothing from the water when they fell in.
- The crew initiated man-overboard procedures, recovering the passenger with the assistance of rescue craft. The individual was transferred safely ashore and hospitalized in stable condition.
Second Incident – September 4:
- A day later, during the 5:00 p.m. sailing on the Spirit of British Columbia, another passenger went overboard east of Active Pass, a narrow channel between Mayne and Galiano Islands.
- Rescue boats launched immediately, and the Canadian Coast Guard assisted in retrieving the passenger from the water.
- The person was safely returned to shore without further reported complications.
Union and Operator Response:
- Eric McNeely, President of the BC Ferry & Marine Workers’ Union, noted that while overboard events are rare, two in as many days is extraordinary.
- BC Ferries confirmed both incidents and emphasized that deliberate entry into the water is extremely dangerous, placing both the passenger and crew responders at risk.
- The company has warned that individuals engaging in such actions may face consequences including travel restrictions, fines, or legal proceedings.
Operational Impact:
- Both sailings experienced delays due to the rescue operations, estimated at around one hour each.
- Ferry workers’ training and professionalism were praised, as they successfully handled two separate emergencies without loss of life.