Dover ferry accident: Four in hospital after ship ploughs into dock

Passengers were left shaken after the Dover Seaways ferry crashed into the sea wall

Dover Seaways Ferry (Getty)

Four ferry passengers have been taken to hospital after the ship they were travelling in ploughed into a wall in Dover harbour.

All passengers and crews were immediately evacuated when the Dover Seaways vessel hit the dock, which was leaving the harbour for the 8am crossing to Dunkirk.

Pictures posted on social media showed upturned chairs and shop stock strewn across the floor.

One passenger, Joan Tiernan, tweeted: "On DFDS ferry. Just crashed into harbour wall. Back in Dover."

She later wrote: "On Ferry. Car reg bingo now. Shop looks like it's been ram-raided. Disabled woman knocked unconscious."

An ambulance spokesman said some people were treated at the scene for bumps and bruises while four adults were taken to William Harvey Hospital in Ashford, Kent, as a precautionary measure.

He said: "None of them are thought to have suffered life-threatening or serious injuries."

According to the port authorities, sea conditions in the English Channel were slight to moderate and visibility was good just before the ferry set off on its journey.

The port spokeswoman said: "All passengers and vehicles have now been discharged from the vessel.

"A small number of passengers and crew were dealt with by South East Coast Ambulance Service at the scene.

"Our first priority is to ensure safety of all those involved and we are supporting DFDS (Seaways) and emergency services in supporting passengers affected by this incident.

"The crew of the Dover Seaways and our own team have immediately put emergency plans into practice to ensure the safety of those on board.

"The vessel, Dover Seaways, is safely berthed in the eastern docks. We praise all concerned for their swift response.

"Naturally, the incident will be subject to our own internal investigation and that of the appropriate statutory authorities."

DFDS Seaways, the ship’s owner, said all passengers and crew had been accounted for and some were being treated for minor injuries.

A spokeswoman said: "All passengers have now disembarked the vessel and those who would like to continue their journey are being accommodated on other DFDS Seaways ferries.

"The Dover Seaways ferry is currently being assessed for repairs.

"We would like to underline that passenger safety is of paramount importance to us and we're working hard with all passengers and relevant authorities to provide assistance to those involved."

While Kent police were informed of the incident, Port of Dover police are leading the investigation.

Additional Reporting by PA