Elevator outage on Northern Adventure highlights accessibility gaps for disabled passengers

PRINCE RUPERT – Passengers with disabilities have been forced to crawl up stairs or pay others to carry them aboard BC Ferries’ Northern Adventure, which has been operating without a functioning elevator for nearly 10 weeks.

The vessel came out of refit and resumed service February 22 but with the elevator non-operational. The elevator was briefly returned to operation on April 26 but failed again within 24 hours. BC Ferries has not completed repairs due to challenges sourcing parts for the European-made lift.

“This is a clear human rights failure,” said Eric McNeely, president of the BC Ferry & Marine Workers’ Union. “This shouldn’t be happening in 2025. Delays sourcing a part are not an excuse. When people’s dignity and safety are on the line, you find a solution fast.”

Front-line ferry workers are facing daily tension and conflict as travelers requiring assistance are left without safe or dignified ways to reach upper decks.

The Northern Adventure serves remote coastal communities and for many passengers, it’s their only route to medical care, family and essential services. The union is calling for urgent repairs, immediate accommodations for passengers requiring assistance and a plan to prevent future failures.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Rachel Garrick | Communications Officer | 604-561-3703 | rachelgarrick@bcfmwu.com

The BC Ferry & Marine Workers’ Union represents more than 4,500 ferry and marine workers across British Columbia. From deckhands and terminal workers to engineers and stewards, we keep the coast moving.