BC Ferries Crew Demonstrates Swift Response in Passenger Overboard Rescue Near Tsawwassen

Emergency Response on Vancouver Island Route

A passenger went overboard on a BC Ferries vessel traveling from Metro Vancouver to Vancouver Island on Wednesday. The incident occurred shortly after the Spirit of Vancouver Island departed on its 1 p.m. sailing from Tsawwassen.

Swift Rescue Operation

The emergency was announced over the vessel’s intercom system with three ringtone sounds followed by a “Man overboard” announcement. While many passengers initially thought it might be a drill, the situation became apparent as the vessel slowed down and crew members were seen running back and forth outside.

The vessel immediately stopped after receiving reports of a passenger in the water. Another ferry joined the rescue effort, and BC Ferries crew members successfully brought the person to safety. The rescued passenger was reportedly in stable condition and was subsequently transported to hospital by ambulance.

Investigation and Impact on Service

Delta Police are actively investigating the incident to determine the circumstances that led to the passenger going overboard. The man was taken to hospital with what are believed to be minor injuries.

BC Ferries emphasized that passenger and crew safety remains their highest priority, acknowledging the distressing nature of the incident for those onboard while commending the swift actions of their crew and emergency responders. As a result of the rescue operation, the 1:00 pm sailing from Tsawwassen experienced an approximately one-hour delay in arriving at Swartz Bay.