Edmonton Queen Riverboat Stranded on Mother’s Day, 200 Evacuated
The Edmonton Queen riverboat became stuck in the North Saskatchewan River on Sunday, May 10, 2026, during a Mother’s Day cruise, resulting in the evacuation of approximately 200 passengers. This incident occurred just days into the start of the riverboat's operating season. The vessel ran aground between the James MacDonald and Connors Road bridges after crew members attempted to turn the boat around using the current and anchor, following reports of loud noises from one of the paddles shortly after departure. Edmonton Fire Rescue Services responded to the scene and successfully assisted in evacuating all passengers via a bridge extended to the shore. No injuries were reported. This event marks the second significant grounding for the Edmonton Queen, which previously became stuck at Accidental Beach in July 2019, stranding 300 people overnight and requiring three years of repairs before returning to service. Global News has requested comments from both the fire department and the riverboat operator regarding this latest safety incident.
Wire timeline
Edmonton Queen Riverboat Stranded on Mother’s Day, 200 Evacuated
The Edmonton Queen riverboat became stuck in the North Saskatchewan River on Sunday, May 10, 2026, during a Mother’s Day cruise, resulting in the evacuation of approximately 200 passengers. This incident occurred just days into the start of the riverboat's operating season. The vessel ran aground between the James MacDonald and Connors Road bridges after crew members attempted to turn the boat around using the current and anchor, following reports of loud noises from one of the paddles shortly after departure. Edmonton Fire Rescue Services responded to the scene and successfully assisted in evacuating all passengers via a bridge extended to the shore. No injuries were reported. This event marks the second significant grounding for the Edmonton Queen, which previously became stuck at Accidental Beach in July 2019, stranding 300 people overnight and requiring three years of repairs before returning to service. Global News has requested comments from both the fire department and the riverboat operator regarding this latest safety incident.
global news canada