Queen of Sidney Ferry Goes Up In Flames

Troy Tyrell – Columnist, WBN News | Email: Troy@tsquaredtraining.com Mission, B.C. — A fiery end came for one of British Columbia’s most iconic ferries this morning as the Queen of Sidney—a cornerstone of BC Ferries history—was consumed by flames while moored in derelict condition on the Fraser River near Mission. At approximately 5:00 AM, thick black smoke erupted from the vessel, now known as Bad Adventure, prompting the City of Mission to activate its Emergency Operations Centre. Nearby residents were told to shelter in place due to concerns about hazardous air quality. Emergency response teams from Mission, Abbotsford, and the surrounding region worked to contain the blaze by land and water. Authorities have deemed the incident suspicious, and a RCMP-led investigation is underway.

A Ferry Full of History—and Memories

Commissioned in 1960, the Queen of Sidney was one of the first two ferries to serve BC’s coastal network. For four decades, she faithfully transported vehicles and passengers between Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, and the mainland before being retired in 2000 and sold in 2002. I remember her well. She was one of my all-time favorite ferries. We’d take her to Mayne Island, and I’d run wild across her breezy decks, grinning into the salty wind. She was more than transportation—she was freedom, adventure, and part of what made living on the coast magical.

Longtime Hazard Now a Tragic Loss

Over the years, the ship’s deteriorating condition sparked numerous complaints and environmental concerns. Mission resident Claudia Nystrom wasn’t surprised: “We knew this would happen. It was just a matter of when.” Environmental monitoring is ongoing as officials determine whether toxic materials entered the river system during the blaze. The ship's demise underscores growing concerns about derelict vessels left unregulated across BC waters.

A Legacy That Won’t Be Forgotten

While the Queen of Sidney may be gone, she remains anchored in the hearts of those who rode her, worked aboard her, or watched her cross the Salish Sea. Though her final voyage ended in smoke and ruin, her legacy still sails strong. WBN will continue coverage as more information becomes available.

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Troy Tyrell – Columnist, WBN News | Email: Troy@tsquaredtraining.com