A vessel belonging to a high-speed ferry service that transports passengers exclusively between Vancouver and Nanaimo collided with a humpback whale in English Bay near Vancouver, as reported by a federal agency. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) confirmed that Hullo Ferries promptly notified them about the incident and is cooperating fully. The whale was observed swimming north post-collision, but no details about its condition were provided.
According to regulations, operators of ships or fishing equipment must immediately report accidental encounters with marine mammals to the authorities. Hullo Ferries, which offers up to 14 daily trips utilizing two catamarans connecting downtown Vancouver and downtown Nanaimo, acknowledged that their vessel Spuhels likely made contact with the whale during a scheduled voyage. The crew took quick evasive measures upon spotting the mammal, following safety protocols.
The company stated that they adhered to all reporting procedures, including informing DFO, the Canadian Coast Guard, First Nations partners, and the Whale Reporting Alert System. While specifics about the whale’s well-being post-incident were not disclosed, CCTV footage and crew observations indicated that the whale moved away from the area after the collision. The company emphasized their commitment to marine life protection, highlighting strict compliance with the Whale Reporting Alert System and Canada’s Marine Mammal Guidelines.
This incident deeply impacted the crew and staff at Vancouver Island Ferry Company, underscoring their dedication to marine conservation. Notably, recent findings revealed a deceased humpback near a location where it was allegedly struck by a B.C. Ferries vessel off the northern coast of British Columbia.
