A US-based ferry operator has issued a formal apology after mistakenly raising the Canadian flag upside down aboard the MV Coho while approaching Victoria’s inner harbour on Sunday morning.
The incident, which occurred on March 23rd, quickly drew attention, as an inverted national flag is traditionally seen as a distress signal or symbol of protest.
The timing was particularly sensitive, with tensions between Canada and the United States already heightened due to an ongoing tariff dispute spurred by policies introduced by US President Donald Trump.
In an official statement, Black Ball Ferry Line, which operates the Coho service between Port Angeles, Washington and Victoria, said the mistake was unintentional and corrected immediately upon discovery.
“Earlier this morning on Sunday, March 23, the Canadian flag was unintentionally raised upside down as part of our routine practice of raising the Canadian flag as we approach the Inner Harbour of Victoria,” the statement read.
“As soon as we became aware of our mistake, it was fixed immediately so that the flag flew correctly.”
The ferry line, which has connected the two cities for over 60 years, emphasized that the mishap was not meant as a slight to Canada or its people.
“We sincerely apologize for any unintended disrespect or confusion this has caused. We deeply value our strong connections on both sides of the water, and we have the utmost respect for the communities we serve,” the statement continued.
Though the company has expressed regret, the incident sparked debate on social media, with some residents questioning whether the error was accidental given the current political climate. Others, however, accepted the apology and commended the company for responding quickly.
The Coho remains a vital transportation and tourism link between Vancouver Island and the Olympic Peninsula, and officials on both sides of the border have historically praised the ferry service for fostering cross-border relationships.
As of now, no further action is expected beyond the public apology.
