Marine conservation authorities are currently in search of an injured humpback whale that was hit by a B.C. Ferries vessel in Howe Sound over the weekend. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) reported that the incident involving the Queen of Surrey ferry occurred between Grace Point and Keats Island. While two humpbacks were seen near the ferry, one of them was struck.
Passengers on board the ferry traveling from Langdale on the Sunshine Coast to Horseshoe Bay felt the impact of the collision and witnessed the distressed whale trailing behind the vessel. Aspen Wing, accompanied by her son, described feeling the collision at 1:33 p.m. PT. They learned about the whale’s presence from a group of girls and spotted the injured humpback near the back of the ferry.
Wing expressed how many passengers were deeply saddened and disturbed by the distressing sight of the whale. She captured a video showing the whale splashing in the water and blowing blood into the air after being struck.
B.C. Ferries emphasized its serious concern about the incident and its potential effects on the whale. According to spokesperson Kit Billings, initial reports suggest that the whale emerged directly in front of the vessel, giving the crew little time to react.
Efforts are underway to respond to the incident, notify the relevant authorities, and gather accurate information on the incident’s impact on the whale. DFO confirmed that B.C. Ferries is cooperating, and a DFO team is currently in Howe Sound attempting to locate the injured whale.
The incident revives memories of a similar event a year ago when a humpback whale was struck by a whale-watching company near Keats Island in Howe Sound, resulting in the death of a four-year-old humpback whale found in the same area a few days later. DFO identified the deceased whale as BCY1464, also known as Wisp, and initiated an investigation.
In light of recent whale strikes in various coastal regions, including one involving a B.C. Ferries vessel in Wright Sound, calls are being made for reduced vessel speeds in areas known to be frequented by humpbacks. The aim is to prevent such tragedies and promote positive changes in marine conservation practices.