Ep 3. Queen of the North

On episode 3 of season 2 of Disasters at Sea titled "Queen of the North," the series explores the tragic sinking of the BC Ferries passenger vessel on the night of March 22, 2006. The Queen of the North was a popular ferry that traveled between Prince Rupert and Port Hardy in British Columbia, Canada, and had been operating without any significant incidents for almost 40 years. However, on the night in question, the ship hit a rocky outcrop and foundered, sending 101 passengers and crew members into the chilly waters of the Inside Passage.

The series begins by recounting the events of this tragic night and introduces viewers to some of the passengers and crew members who were on board the ferry. The episode features interviews with survivors, witnesses, and experts such as marine investigators and naval architects, who provide their insights into what happened.

As the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that a major factor in the accident was the lack of adequate navigation equipment on board the Queen of the North. Despite the crew’s efforts to correct its course and avoid the rocks, the ship hit the submerged Gil Island and began to take on water. The episode highlights the pressing need for navigational tools such as electronic chart systems in modern-day ships to prevent incidents like this from occurring.

The show also delves into the rescue operation, which was mounted by the Royal Canadian Navy, the Canadian Coast Guard, and local fishermen who braved the rough waters to save those in need. It highlights the incredible heroism of the rescue team, who risked their lives to save others as they searched the remote, rocky coastline for survivors.

Throughout the episode, viewers are taken through the painstaking investigation into the sinking of the Queen of the North. The series looks at the role of human error in the incident and the various safety procedures in place, or lack thereof, which contributed to the tragedy. It also examines the repercussions, including the impact on BC Ferries and the changes that have been implemented since then to improve safety.

The episode concludes with a look at the legacy of the sinking of the Queen of the North and the lessons that have been learned. It serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of marine disasters and the need for continued vigilance and improvement in the areas of safety and navigation.

In summary, Disasters at Sea season 2 episode 3, "Queen of the North," is a gripping and thought-provoking episode that delves into the causes and repercussions of one of Canada's worst maritime disasters. It is a compelling showcase of the human element involved in such incidents and a stark reminder of the need for constant vigilance and improvement in safety measures to prevent future tragedies.