The Queen of Alberni was travelling between the mainland and Duke Point, south of Nanaimo, when it caught a net near Entrance Island.. File photo
BC Ferries says it will be speaking with Fisheries and Oceans Canada after a ferry snagged a partially submerged fishing net Wednesday in waters off Nanaimo.
Ferry corporation spokeswoman Deborah Marshall says the Queen of Alberni was travelling between the mainland and Duke Point, south of Nanaimo, when it caught a net near Entrance Island.
Marshall says about 75 boats were taking part in a fisheries opening in the area and although the captain slowed the ferry to ensure safe passage, one net was poorly marked and became fouled in the ship's propeller.
No one was hurt and the propeller was not damaged but Marshall says the small boat that set the net was towed backward by the ferry until the line between the boat and the net snapped.
She says the captain freed the remains of the net by reversing the ferry and the ship continued on to Nanaimo, about 20 minutes behind schedule.
Ferry travel lanes should not be obstructed and Marshall says the lanes past Entrance Island are clearly marked.
"We appreciate that (fishing crews) have a job to do, they are trying to make a living, but do stay clear of the ferry," says Marshall.
