News release

TSB launches investigation into the accident involving the passenger vessel Leviathan II near Tofino, British Columbia

Richmond, British Columbia, 26 October 2015 – Today, the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) launched its investigation (M15P0347) into the 25 October 2015 accident near Tofino, British Columbia, involving the passenger vessel Leviathan II.

The passenger vessel Leviathan II departed Tofino at 1:30 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time (PDT) on a whale watching tour. There were 24 passengers and 3 crew members on board. Around 3:45 p.m. PDT, the vessel experienced problems and took on water. There were five fatalities and one person is still missing.  The TSB offers its condolences to the friends and families who lost loved ones in this accident.

Next steps

A team of investigators has arrived on site and is beginning the Field Phase of the investigation. In the coming days, the team will:

• Collect any available data
• Conduct interviews with crew members and passengers
• Review meteorological conditions
• Examine and photograph the wreckage
• Examine the maintenance history of the vessel
• Review the operation of the equipment
• Review operational policies
• Examine the regulatory requirements

Communication of safety deficiencies

Investigations are complex and we take the time we need to complete a thorough investigation. However, should the investigation team uncover safety deficiencies that present an immediate risk, the Board will communicate them without delay so they may be addressed quickly.