Japanese high-speed ferry 'hits whale', injuring dozens of passengers

Dozens of passengers have been injured after a high-speed ferry crashed into what is believed to have been a whale in Japan.

The accident happened just after noon off Sado Island, Kyodo News agency reported, citing Japan's coast guard.

Five of the injuries were serious and a 15-centimeter (6-inch) crack was found at the ferry's stern.

The boat's hydrofoil wings were also damaged in the collision.

But ferry operator Sado Steam Ship Co said the jetfoil ferry still reached its intended destination on the island, located off the west coast of Japan's main island of Honshu, according to Kyodo.

The ferry, which departed from Honshu's Niigata Port, was carrying 121 passengers and four crew members.

It is propelled by a high-pressure jet of sea water and travels at around 80kph.

Kyodo said the cause of the accident was under investigation, but that coast guard officials said the ferry may have struck a whale or other sea animal.

The country's public broadcaster NHK said 13 passengers were in a serious condition but thought to be conscious.

A marine expert quoted by the website said the scale of the impact suggests the ship struck a whale, especially as mink and humpback whales are currently migrating through the Sea of Japan.

“After the sound of a bang … my throat hit the seat in front of me. People around me were moaning (because of pain),” one passenger said, according to The Japan Times.

Additional reporting by agencies