Urgent Rescue: Person Overboard from BC Ferries Vessel Today

UPDATE: A person has gone overboard from the BC Ferries vessel Spirit of Vancouver Island shortly after its departure from Tsawwassen, B.C., at 1 p.m. today, September 3, 2025. The vessel was en route to Swartz Bay when the emergency unfolded, prompting immediate rescue efforts.

According to a statement from BC Ferries, the ship halted its journey shortly after takeoff to respond to the incident. Rescue boats were deployed swiftly, and the individual was located by BC Ferries crew members.

As of 1:45 p.m., the condition of the person remains “unknown,” but around 2 p.m., it was confirmed that the individual was transferred to a waiting ambulance from BC Emergency Health Services at the Tsawwassen terminal.

BC Ferries has reported that the Spirit of Vancouver Island will experience a delay of approximately one hour as it retrieves its rescue boat before resuming operations. The Queen of New Westminster vessel also assisted in the emergency response.

“The person overboard was rescued by BC Ferries crew and brought to Tsawwassen terminal where an ambulance was waiting,” BC Ferries tweeted. “A one-hour delay is anticipated.”

This incident unfolds during a busy travel period, heightening the urgency for swift action. As rescue operations continue, authorities urge passengers to remain calm and adhere to safety protocols.

Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops. The safety of all passengers is the top priority as BC Ferries works to resolve this emergency.