B.C. Ferries to Adjust Schedule on Northern Route to Prevent Humpback Whale Collisions
B.C. Ferries announced modifications to the timetable of its key northern route in British Columbia to mitigate the risk of humpback whale collisions. Effective June 1, the Northern Expedition route, connecting Prince Rupert, Haida Gwaii, and Vancouver Island, will be adjusted to accommodate slower travel speeds aimed at reducing the chances of whale strikes. This decision follows a tragic incident in September 2025 when a humpback whale, identified by the Gitga’at First Nation as Midnight, was struck and killed by the ferry. Midnight, a familiar presence in local waters, was regarded as a vital part of the ecosystem.
The recent fatality is part of a concerning trend involving multiple fatal humpback strikes in B.C. waters, attributed to the rising presence of both whales and vessels in the area. The Gitga’at Nation expressed deep sorrow over the loss, emphasizing the mounting pressures of maritime traffic on marine wildlife within their traditional territories.
While B.C. Ferries has been operating at reduced speeds in areas with significant marine mammal activity, such as the Wright Sound special operation zone off the North Coast, the adjustments have impacted punctuality, resulting in necessary updates to the schedules. Notably, there will be extended waiting times at McLoughlin Bay for southbound Route 28A connections, with delays expected in arrivals at Port Hardy and Prince Rupert, although onward connections remain unaffected.
Despite the efforts to decrease speeds as a preventive measure, Sean Brillant, a senior conservation biologist at the Canadian Wildlife Federation, cautioned that reduced speeds may not entirely eliminate the risk of collisions. Brillant stressed the importance of avoiding vessel presence in whale-populated areas, advocating for designated zones and advanced detection technology to enhance whale protection and minimize ship strikes.
In conclusion, the changes in the ferry schedule reflect a proactive approach by B.C. Ferries to safeguard marine wildlife, particularly humpback whales, underscoring the ongoing conservation efforts in the region.
