A video making the rounds on social media has sparked widespread concern and triggered a police investigation after it showed a jet skier performing a reckless stunt dangerously close to a moving BC Ferries vessel.
The clip, which was posted to Instagram and has already been viewed nearly a million times, shows a person on a personal watercraft speeding underneath the stern of a ferry while it was actively sailing.
The act, described by ferry officials as “extremely dangerous,” appears to have taken place in the Strait of Georgia.
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Commenters on the video have identified the BC Ferries vessel in question as likely being the Queen of Coquitlam, built in 1976. The Queen of Coquitlam is a C-class ferry that runs between Horseshoe Bay and Langdale, and can carry more than 300 vehicles, moving at speeds of up to 20.5 knots.
In a statement to Victoria Buzz, BC Ferries said it is taking the incident seriously and has reported it to the Sunshine Coast RCMP, who have launched an investigation.
“Regardless of the vessel involved, operating a personal watercraft that close to a ferry is extremely dangerous and puts both the rider and others at serious risk,” said Shiryn Sayani, senior communications advisor for BC Ferries.
“This type of behaviour is illegal under federal marine safety regulations.”
The company confirmed it is reviewing the footage internally and emphasized that safety is a top priority.
“We urge all watercraft users to keep a safe distance and follow marine navigation rules at all times,” Sayani added.
Sunshine Coast RCMP confirmed they’ve reviewed the video, but the exact date or location of the incident has not been confirmed. Investigators have liaised with BC Ferries and Transport Canada.
“Operating a personal watercraft beneath the stern overhang of a moving ferry is extremely dangerous and could result in serious injury or death,” said Cpl. Philip Atoui.
“Risking your life for social media content is reckless and irresponsible, luckily no one was injured in this instance.”
The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with more details about this incident are encouraged to contact the Sunshine Coast RCMP at 604-885-2266 & reference file # 2025-4280
