VICTORIA — A BC Ferries vessel sailing from Vancouver Island to Metro Vancouver faced a significant delay this past weekend after six passengers fell ill on board, with two of them needing to be hospitalized. The incident occurred on Saturday, March 22, 2025, during a sailing set to leave from Swartz Bay, situated north of Victoria, bound for Tsawwassen in Metro Vancouver at 1 p.m.
According to a spokeswoman from BC Ferries, the sickness struck while the passengers were in a stairwell, prompting immediate medical attention. Police and paramedics were called to the scene to assist, highlighting the seriousness of the situation. Among the six affected passengers, four were able to remain on the ferry, where they were treated for their ailments. Unfortunately, two individuals required more extensive care and were subsequently transported to a local hospital.
As confirmed by B.C. Emergency Health Services, a total of three ambulances were dispatched to the Swartz Bay ferry terminal around 12:10 p.m. that Saturday. While the emergency services did confirm that two passengers were taken to the hospital, specific details regarding their conditions post-treatment have not been disclosed. Neither BC Ferries nor B.C. Emergency Health Services have offered any information regarding the cause of the illness, which continues to remain a mystery.
BC Ferries issued a statement via social media, confirming that the medical emergency led to a delay of approximately 55 minutes before the sailing was able to continue its journey. The unexpected turn of events disrupted travel plans for not only those directly involved but also for other passengers on the vessel.
This incident serves as a reminder of the crucial importance of medical readiness on public transport systems, as well as the swift response from emergency personnel in potentially life-threatening situations. While the causes of the illnesses remain unknown, the reactions from both the ferry service and health authorities illustrate a commitment to passenger safety and health.
As investigations continue to unravel the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate occurrence, many are left asking whether additional measures can be put in place to prevent similar incidents in the future.
This report was originally published by The Canadian Press on March 23, 2025.
