A Boston Duck Tours vehicle overturned while exiting the Charles River in Cambridge on Saturday afternoon, leaving 11 people injured and prompting a large-scale emergency response. Authorities are investigating the incident, which occurred near the boat ramp at Museum Way, as officials work to determine what caused the amphibious tour vehicle to tip onto its side.
According to Cambridge Police and the Massachusetts State Police, the duck boat had experienced a mechanical problem while on the Charles River and was being towed back to shore by another vessel. As the disabled duck boat was being pulled up the boat ramp, the towing line reportedly snapped, causing the vehicle to roll backward before overturning onto its side. There were 32 passengers and crew members aboard at the time of the accident.
Emergency responders from Cambridge Fire, Cambridge Police, Massachusetts State Police, and Boston EMS quickly arrived at the scene to assist passengers and secure the area. Officials confirmed that all occupants were safely accounted for following the incident. Eleven people sustained injuries ranging from minor to serious and were transported to nearby hospitals for evaluation and treatment. Hospital officials later reported that several patients had already been treated and discharged.
Witnesses described a frightening scene as the duck boat struck rocks near the ramp before tipping over. Several passengers were thrown against one another because the vehicle was not equipped with seat belts. Bystanders nearby immediately rushed to help those onboard while first responders carried out rescue operations.
Following the accident, Boston Duck Tours voluntarily suspended all operations for the remainder of the day as a precaution. The company stated it is fully cooperating with investigators, including the U.S. Coast Guard and Massachusetts State Police, to determine exactly what caused the mechanical failure and subsequent rollover. Tours resumed the following day after the company completed its initial safety review.
Investigators continue to examine the disabled vehicle, review maintenance records, and interview witnesses to establish the sequence of events that led to the accident. At this stage, authorities have not indicated that weather played a role, focusing instead on the reported mechanical issue during the recovery operation.
The incident has renewed attention on the safety of amphibious “duck boats,” which have been involved in several high-profile accidents across the United States over the years. Boston Duck Tours has stated that passenger safety remains its highest priority and that it will continue working with investigators as the review progresses.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are expected to release additional information as they complete their review of the accident and determine whether any further safety measures are necessary.