Chaos on the Water: Several Injured in Shocking Florida Ferry Crash

MIAMI, FL — A ferry accident off the Florida coast left several people injured Saturday evening after the vessel collided with a dock near PortMiami, authorities confirmed.

The incident occurred around 6:00 p.m. local time as the ferry was returning from Fisher Island, a private and exclusive community accessible only by water. According to Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, the ferry struck the dock unexpectedly, causing a violent jolt that sent passengers tumbling.

At least nine people sustained injuries, officials said, including a few who were transported to nearby hospitals for further evaluation. Fortunately, none of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening.

Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with some passengers thrown to the deck upon impact. “It felt like a car crash, but we were on the water,” said one ferry rider, who declined to be identified. “People were screaming, some were bleeding — it was terrifying.”

Authorities have launched an investigation into the crash. Preliminary reports suggest there may have been a mechanical failure, but officials have not ruled out human error. The ferry’s captain and crew are cooperating with investigators.

Miami-Dade Police and the U.S. Coast Guard were both on scene shortly after the collision to assist with rescue operations and to secure the vessel. The ferry was carrying a combination of residents, workers, and delivery personnel at the time of the crash.

PortMiami operations were not significantly disrupted, but ferry services to and from Fisher Island were temporarily suspended pending safety inspections.

As of Sunday morning, officials were still working to determine the exact cause of the crash. The Coast Guard is expected to release an initial report later this week.