Five Britons killed as whale watching boat with 27 on board capsizes

Five Britons have died after a Canadian whale-watching boat carrying 27 passengers sank off the coast of British Columbia. A military rescue helicopter and plane were sent to the waters off the coast of Tofino after the vessel sent a distress signal around 5pm local time. Coast guard vessels and paramedics were also involved in the major rescue operation. One person remains missing. Earlier, a spokeswoman confirmed there were survivors, and many had been discharged from hospital.

It has been a tragic day. Our entire team is heartbroken over this incident and our hearts go out to the families, friends and loved ones of everyone involved.

A spokesperson for Jamie’s Whaling Station and Adventure Centres

The vessel, named the Leviathan II, was operated by Jamie’s Whaling Station and Adventure Centres. In a statement, the company wrote: “We are cooperating with investigators to determine exactly what happened. In the meantime, we want to extend our most sincere thank you to the first responders, rescue personnel, and everyone from Tofino and the local First Nations communities who assisted with the response efforts.” The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) says it will send a team to investigate the incident. Tofini is a community with a population of around 2,000 people and is located on the west coast of Vancouver Island.

Thoughts & prayers are with passengers, crew, emergency responders & their families.

Tofino Mayor Josie Osborne

Americas Whale Watching