BC Ferries plans to introduce whale detection technology on select northern route vessels later this year as part of efforts to reduce collisions with marine mammals. The initiative follows several whale strike incidents in recent years, including a fatal humpback whale collision near Wright Sound in 2025. Beginning June 1, the Northern Expedition route will also reduce speeds from 18 to 10 knots, while new federal regulations will require vessels to remain at least 1,000 metres from southern resident killer whales. Researchers and conservation groups say vessel strikes remain a major threat to whales in B.C. waters and are calling for additional measures, including rerouting, education, and expanded monitoring.
