Passenger Ferry Slammed By Rogue Wave

The Provincetown IV ferry, pictured right, alongside its sister ferry, Provincetown III. Photo courtesy Bay State Cruises

A passenger ferry became disabled Wednesday off Massachusetts after allegedy being hit by a “rogue” wave.

The U.S. Coast Guard says its crews assisted the crew and passengers aboard the Provincetown IV Ferry which had suffered an engine failure and was unable to make way near Scituate, Massachusetts.

According to reports, the Provincetown to Boston ferry lost power after being struck by a large wave, large enough in fact to break two of some of the pilot house windows and send passengers flying across the cabin.

“It sounded like the ferry hit another ferry or something. It was so bad,” said passenger Christian Harijanto, reports CBS Boston. “I really thought I was going to die.”

The ferry was eventually able to regain power and made its way into port with an escort from the U.S. Coast Guard. The ferry docked in Boston at about 7:40 p.m., more than three hours after the incident was reported, the Coast Guard said.

“We confirmed they were no injuries, ensured everyone aboard was safe, and made sure they made it back home,” said Lt. j.g. Ed Costa the command duty officer at Sector Boston.

gCaptain sources indicate that operator error may have attributed to the incident however.   The captain of the vessel was a temporary fill-in and that the vessel may have been operating too fast for the conditions.  Waves at the time were 5 feet every 6 seconds according to our source.

The incident is under investigation.

The Provincetown IV is operated by the Bay State Cruise Company and has been in operation since July 2013.

Unlock Exclusive Insights Today!

Join the gCaptain Club for curated content, insider opinions, and vibrant community discussions.

Sign Up