B.C. Ferries Adjusts Schedule to Prevent Collisions with Humpback Whales
B.C. Ferries is modifying the timetable for the Northern Expedition route in northern B.C. to mitigate the risk of humpback whale collisions. Effective June 1, the schedule for the route connecting Prince Rupert, Haida Gwaii, and Vancouver Island will be adjusted to accommodate slower travel speeds aimed at reducing the likelihood of whale strikes, according to a B.C. Ferries representative.
The schedule changes come following a tragic incident in September 2025 when a humpback whale was struck and killed by a ferry. The Gitga’at First Nation identified the deceased whale as Midnight, a well-known visitor to the local waters and a significant part of the ecosystem.
The unfortunate event is part of a concerning trend of fatal humpback whale collisions in B.C. waters, attributed to the increasing presence of both whales and vessels in the region.
Acknowledging the challenges, B.C. Ferries revealed that they have been implementing reduced speeds in areas with significant marine mammal activity, such as the Wright Sound special operation area on B.C.’s North Coast, following consultations with local First Nations. However, the operator noted that this adjustment has affected the punctuality of arrivals in Prince Rupert, with on-time arrivals occurring only 30% of the time, necessitating updates to the schedules.
While decreasing speeds can help lower the risk of collisions, Sean Brillant, a senior conservation biologist with the Canadian Wildlife Federation, cautioned that it may not entirely prevent such incidents. Brillant emphasized the importance of avoiding whale-populated areas with vessels and highlighted the value of restricted zones and detection technology in mitigating the risks of vessel-whale encounters.
In response to the recent tragedies and in collaboration with local communities, B.C. Ferries continues to explore solutions to protect marine wildlife and enhance safety measures during maritime operations.