On a recent Sunday, the MV Harbour Princess, a popular cruise vessel in Vancouver, faced a troubling incident when it ran aground near Point Atkinson. The Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) Victoria was informed of the situation late in the morning, specifically around 11:30 a.m. The vessel is operated by Harbour Cruises and is designed to accommodate up to 275 passengers. Eyewitness accounts from those on board described a sudden collision with rocks, leading to chaos during what was supposed to be a leisurely lunch on the cruise.
Passengers recounted a sudden and abrupt stop that resulted in broken glass and a sense of alarm on the vessel. Although the exact number of passengers onboard remains unclear, reports indicate that many experienced fear as the ship hit the rocks. One passenger noted the scary reality of hearing a loud crash while enjoying their meal, highlighting the unexpected nature of the incident. The cruise vessel, known for offering scenic views around Vancouver, transformed from a serene experience to one filled with uncertainty in a matter of seconds.
In the wake of the grounding, a large rescue operation ensued. The JRCC deployed a hovercraft along with multiple Coast Guard boats and the Vancouver Police marine unit to assist in the effort. Civilian vessels also joined the response, indicating the seriousness of the situation. Passengers remained on the boat while specialized teams worked to free the MV Harbour Princess from the rocks, demonstrating a coordinated response to ensure everyone’s safety during the ordeal.
As the vessel was safely navigated back towards Coal Harbour, passengers were instructed to proceed to the lower deck and put on life jackets, which they did without panic. Despite the tense situation, passengers reported feeling reassured by the crew’s instructions and the swift action of the rescuers. The experience, although frightening, did not escalate to a life-threatening situation, with the vessel not taking on any water.
After the vessel arrived back at port, some passengers shared their harrowing experiences with local news outlets. Many expressed their relief that the situation hadn’t turned disastrous and noted the distress that arose from the incident, including broken glass and distressed children. One passenger detailed feeling an impending sense of doom as the ship ran aground, affirming the emotional impact the experience had on them.
In the aftermath, British Columbia Emergency Health Services noted that one individual was taken to the hospital in stable condition, underscoring that while the incident could have been more severe, appropriate medical precautions were in place. Efforts to gather insight into the cause of the grounding were underway, with inquiries made to Harbour Cruises; however, the company opted not to comment on the situation at that time. This incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of maritime operations and the importance of emergency preparedness on passenger vessels.
