Tragedy Strikes BC Ferries: Two Passengers Go Overboard in Consecutive Days

On September 4, 2025, a passenger went overboard from the Spirit of British Columbia ferry during the 5 p.m. crossing between Swartz Bay and Tsawwassen. This incident, occurring east of Active Pass, was notably the second such event on the same route within two consecutive days. Eric McNeely, the provincial president of the BC Ferry & Marine Workers’ Union, reported the incident and confirmed that a rescue boat was dispatched, successfully recovering the individual and transferring them to a Canadian Coast Guard vessel.

Just a day prior, on September 3, another passenger had fallen into the water during the 1 p.m. sailing near the Tsawwassen terminal. This incident was reportedly prompted by an attempt to retrieve a piece of clothing that had fallen overboard.

Company representatives for BC Ferries remarked that while one overboard incident is already unusual, experiencing two in such a short timeframe is particularly rare. Both cases are currently under investigation. The ferry service cautioned that entering the water intentionally can be extremely dangerous, posing life-threatening risks for the individual and additional dangers for rescuers, which may lead to severe consequences, including travel restrictions, fines, or legal actions.

McNeely emphasized the extensive training that ferry workers undergo, which includes responsibilities that extend beyond navigation and operations. This training is critical for ensuring passenger safety during emergencies, a critical component of their profession that is often unseen by the public.

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