Following a major incident, the Wolfe Island ferry will see new safety features including alarms, buoy upgrades, and stricter onboard procedures.
Safety Upgrades Announced for Wolfe Islander IV
New safety measures are being introduced for the Wolfe Islander IV ferry months after a serious incident left the vessel damaged and out of service. Ted Hsu, MPP for Kingston and the Islands, confirmed the changes after meeting with Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation (MTO) in late June.
Incident Triggers Multi-Month Investigation
On December 4, 2024, the ferry is believed to have struck the bottom of the channel between Kingston and Wolfe Island, tearing a 30-centimetre gash in its hull. The damage forced the vessel out of service for several months. The MTO has remained tight-lipped about the exact cause, but the event prompted a comprehensive review of ferry operations and navigation systems.
Enhanced Navigation and Real-Time Monitoring
Among the changes being implemented are real-time course monitoring and the installation of audible navigational alarms designed to trigger sooner during adverse conditions like strong winds. Hsu emphasized the importance of these measures, noting that captains will now have access to more accurate navigational data to guide the vessel.
Buoy System and Channel Mapping Improved
A recent high-resolution hydrographic survey conducted by the Canadian Hydrographic Service revealed that several buoys marking the ferry’s path needed repositioning. As a result, the number of navigational buoys along the route has increased from five to seven. These upgraded buoys are all-weather and illuminated, improving visibility and safety year-round.
Bridge Access and Crew Training Reinforced
Changes are also being made to crew protocols. Only active duty personnel will now be permitted on the ferry’s bridge during departures and arrivals, tightening safety standards. Hsu noted that while community involvement has long been a tradition aboard the ferry, the new rules aim to minimize distractions during critical moments.
Simulator-Based Training and Stronger Alarms
To further support ferry crews, the MTO has introduced simulator-based training sessions and operational drills. These exercises are meant to bolster decision-making in challenging conditions. Additionally, early-warning alarms tied to electronic navigation systems will now alert crews more quickly when wind speeds increase or the vessel veers off course.
Concerns About Vessel’s Weather Capabilities
The Wolfe Islander IV has faced criticism from residents who question its reliability in poor weather. Historical data from Environment Canada shows winds were gusting between 40–45 km/h during the time of the incident. Hsu acknowledged that the ferry’s deeper draft compared to its predecessor makes it “less forgiving” if it strays off its intended route.
However, he remains confident. “I feel that MTO is doing everything it can to make sure the ferry can operate safely in all weather conditions,” he said. “Let’s implement these measures and evaluate their effectiveness before labeling it a fair-weather vessel.”
Outlook
With updated protocols, more accurate navigation tools, and stricter onboard regulations, the province aims to restore confidence in the Wolfe Island ferry system. While the long-term performance of these updates remains to be seen, the immediate goal is clear: safer, more reliable service for Wolfe Island and Kingston residents year-round.
