Vancouver Collision: A Watercraft and a Gray Whale

A Sea-Doo collided with a gray whale near Vancouver on May 4, 2026, in an event that was captured on video by people on the seawall. The collision occurred near Siwash Rock off Stanley Park around 7:30 p.m. and the watercraft was thrown into the air. Witnesses described the scene as sudden and frightening, while nearby boaters assisted the rider after the crash. Since the whale had been feeding close to shore for several days, many people had gathered to watch it.

Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue responded to a mayday call and helped the injured operator. The rider was taken to hospital in serious but stable condition and paramedics treated him on shore. Federal fisheries officers have opened an investigation and experts inspected the whale; they could not see obvious injuries and the animal appeared active. Officials have reminded recreational boaters to keep at least 100 metres from whales and to reduce speed when marine mammals are nearby. Although investigators are still assessing details, Vancouver police have identified the operator and spoken to multiple witnesses.