When the coast guard isn’t there, we are

Ferry crews don’t set out to be first responders, but when trouble hits the water, they often are.

It doesn’t happen every day, but when it does, training and quick action save lives.

Recently, two passengers went overboard on back-to-back days on the Tsawwassen–Swartz Bay route. Crews launched rescue boats within minutes. Another ferry and the Coast Guard hovercraft helped, and both people were brought out of the water safely.

In March, Hullo Ferry crews launched their rescue boat to reach people stranded on Snake Island near Nanaimo after their vessel ran aground. Working with RCMSAR, everyone made it back safe despite rough seas.

From overturned canoes to motor boats taking on water, our members use their skills and training to ensure everyone gets home safe.

Every crew runs regular drills for fire, evacuation, man overboard and medical calls. They know their rescue boats inside out. When the alarm goes, they don’t hesitate. That takes skill, discipline and dedication. It’s the kind of quiet professionalism that keeps people safe.

When the unexpected happens at sea, it’s our members who step up. That kind of skill and dedication deserves recognition every day.