The Queen-Of-Capilano: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

A recent investigation conducted by the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) has shed light on the circumstances surrounding the 'Queen of Capilano' ferry's allision with a moored Grand Banks yacht at Snug Cove, Bowen Island. The incident occurred while the ferry was departing, carrying 34 passengers, when it collided with the stationary vessel at Bowen Island Marina. The impact was severe, with the ferry’s stern crashing through the yacht's cabin, resulting in the destruction of railings, shattered windows, and significant damage to the door and its frame. Following the allision, the yacht was propelled into the dock, causing further structural damage. Later that day, the ferry was removed from service and held at Horseshoe Bay until the evening hours. According to the investigation summary, the ferry crew reported that high wind gusts and control issues with the azimuth thrusters contributed to the mishap as they departed from the terminal. On February 20, the TSB categorized the event as a 'class 5 occurrence,' indicating that while a comprehensive investigation isn't required, the incident will be documented for potential future safety analysis and statistical reporting. Despite the classification of minor damage, the TSB may issue a safety letter if issues are identified. Additionally, BC Ferries is conducting an internal investigation to examine the causes behind the collision, with a focus on the impacts of weather and mechanical factors. The company is committed to collaborating with the TSB and other stakeholders to glean critical insights for future safety improvements.

On the morning of February 2, 2025, the 'Queen of Capilano' ferry experienced a mechanical malfunction, leading to a collision with three moored yachts at the Bowen Island Marina dock located in Snug Cove. The incident occurred shortly after the ferry's departure at 7:30 a.m. The impact resulted in extensive damage to the dock and raised concerns among crew members. Prioritizing safety, the captain opted to navigate the vessel into open water to assess the situation, avoiding further complications within the constrained marina area. Despite the earlier mishap, the 'Queen of Capilano' successfully completed its route to Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver before being sidelined for further inspection. The ferry was unable to operate after the 10:15 a.m. sailing from Horseshoe Bay, leading to the cancellation of 14 sailings to and from Bowen Island over the course of more than eight hours due to propulsion system issues. Transport Canada mandated sea trials for the vessel before it could return to service, which took place in the evening. In the interim, passenger-only water taxis were deployed to facilitate transport between Bowen Island and Horseshoe Bay while the ferry was out of commission. An investigation is currently underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident. For detailed reports with multimedia coverage, visit: https://www.nsnews.com/local-news/bc-ferries-vessel-collides-with-moored-boats-at-bowen-dock-10174745 and https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/bc-ferries-bowen-island-hits-boats-1.7450625.

On December 20, 2018, the Queen of Capilano departed Horseshoe Bay at 6:50 p.m. on schedule, following a tumultuous earlier sailing. The afternoon journey at 2:20 p.m. was marked by extreme conditions, with relentless waves crashing over the car deck, causing the front gates to unexpectedly open. After this harrowing experience, the ferry remained docked for approximately an hour before making a return to Horseshoe Bay without any passengers on board. This incident led to the cancellation of several afternoon sailings, leaving many passengers, including local high school students, stranded on the North Shore. While Environment Canada had issued a gale wind warning for Howe Sound, winds had diminished from a peak of 45 knots per hour down to 17. For more details, check out the full report with accompanying photos and video: https://www.bowenislandundercurrent.com/news/the-queen-of-capilano-is-back-in-business-but-she-had-a-dramatic-afternoon-1.23552214.