BC Ferries is under fire after passengers with disabilities were forced to crawl up stairs or pay to be carried aboard the Northern Adventure—because the ship’s elevator has been out of service for nearly 10 weeks.
The vessel resumed service on February 22 following a refit, but its elevator was non-operational.
It briefly worked on April 26 before breaking down again. BC Ferries says it’s struggling to source parts for the European-made lift.
Eric McNeely, president of the BC Ferry and Marine Workers’ Union, called it a human rights failure, saying,
This shouldn’t be happening in 2025.” He says delays aren’t a valid excuse when people’s dignity and safety are at risk.
Front-line workers are dealing with growing frustration as passengers needing support have no safe or dignified access to upper decks.
The Northern Adventure is a critical link for remote coastal communities—connecting people to medical care, family, and essential services.
The union is demanding immediate fixes, proper accommodations for those affected, and a long-term plan to prevent this from happening again.
Comments