1 Dead, 12 Injured After Clearwater Ferry Collision With Recreational Boat

Tragedy struck in Clearwater, Florida, on Sunday, April 27, 2025, evening when a privately owned recreational boat collided with the Clearwater Ferry, leaving one person dead and 12 others injured. The devastating crash, which occurred near the Memorial Causeway Bridge, serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers that exist on Florida’s busy waterways.

According to the Clearwater Police Department and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the incident happened around 8:40 p.m. when a 37-foot private boat struck the 40-foot ferry from behind. There were 45 people aboard the ferry at the time, including two crew members. Authorities later confirmed that all of the injured individuals were ferry passengers.

After the collision, the ferry came to rest on a sandbar just south of the bridge, allowing first responders to access and evacuate all passengers and patients. BayCare Health System reported that it received nine patients across three of its hospitals; as of Monday, April 28, all but one had been treated and released.

Cellphone footage and passenger interviews captured the chaos and fear aboard the ferry as the crash unfolded. One passenger described hearing the first mate shout “Hey, hey, hey” moments before the impact. The passenger, riding with his wife — who is 31 weeks pregnant — and two children, described the horror as a large yacht-like vessel crashed into the back of the ferry.

Authorities reported that the private boat fled the scene immediately after the crash and traveled to the Belleair Boat Ramp, where it was later located by responding agencies. Six people were aboard the recreational boat. While the captain of the vessel cooperated with authorities and submitted to a Breathalyzer test (which found no alcohol in his system), questions remain about the circumstances that led to the fatal collision.

As of Monday afternoon, no arrests had been made, but officials indicated they are working with the state attorney’s office to determine whether the incident will be classified as a hit-and-run under Florida law.

Both the Coast Guard and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission are leading the ongoing investigation. The identities of the deceased and the captain of the recreational vessel are expected to be released soon.

Legal Considerations After a Serious Boating Accident

In serious boating accidents like the Clearwater Ferry crash, determining liability is crucial. In Florida, vessel operators have a legal duty to navigate safely and avoid collisions. Key issues that often arise in investigations include:

• Failure to Maintain Proper Lookout: Boat operators must remain vigilant and attentive at all times.
• Speeding or Unsafe Operation: Operating at unsafe speeds, especially in congested areas, can lead to devastating collisions.
• Failure to Yield: Certain rules govern which vessels must yield in different scenarios.
• Leaving the Scene: Fleeing after a collision can result in additional civil and criminal penalties under Florida law.
• Negligence or Recklessness: If an operator’s careless behavior leads to injury or death, they may be held legally responsible through personal injury or wrongful death claims.

In maritime injury cases, victims (or their surviving family members) may be able to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and funeral costs, depending on the circumstances.

Navigating Boating Accident Claims in Florida

Investigations into boating accidents often involve multiple agencies, including local police, the Coast Guard, and the FWC. Key elements typically reviewed include:

• Eyewitness statements
• Surveillance and cellphone video
• Vessel damage inspections
• Alcohol and drug testing results
• Navigation rules compliance
• GPS or electronic data from the boats

Given the complexities of maritime law and personal injury claims arising from boating incidents, having a complete and thorough investigation is essential for establishing fault and protecting the rights of injured victims and their families.

This heartbreaking accident is a reminder of the importance of boating safety and accountability on Florida’s waterways. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and the Clearwater community as they navigate this difficult time.

As officials continue their investigation, passengers and their families may have questions about their rights, available compensation, and the legal process ahead. It’s crucial for those affected to stay informed, cooperate with investigators, and consider speaking with an experienced maritime or boating accident attorney who can help explain their legal options.