Ride the Ducks was a well-known national duck tour operator, offering unique amphibious vehicle tours in various U.S. cities and Guam. The company used vehicles based on the World War II DUKW design, providing both land and water tours. However, the company faced significant challenges over the years, culminating in the tragic Table Rock Lake accident in 2018. This article delves into the history of Ride the Ducks, its operational challenges, and the impact
of the 2018 accident on its legacy.
The Rise of Ride the Ducks
Founded as a tourist attraction, Ride the Ducks quickly gained popularity for its unique tours using amphibious vehicles. These vehicles, affectionately known as "ducks," were designed to transition seamlessly from land to water, offering tourists a novel way to explore cities. The company operated in several locations across the United States, providing tours that combined sightseeing with historical narratives.
The vehicles used by Ride the Ducks were either custom-built or modified from original DUKW chassis, known as "stretch ducks." These vehicles incorporated advances in marine design and safety, and drivers were certified by the Coast Guard. Despite these measures, the company faced several incidents over the years, raising questions about the safety of duck boats.
Challenges and Incidents
Ride the Ducks experienced multiple incidents that highlighted the inherent risks of operating amphibious vehicles. In 2015, a Ride the Ducks vehicle in Seattle broke an axle and collided with a charter bus, resulting in five fatalities. The vehicle had not undergone a recommended repair, leading to a $1 million fine for the Missouri-based manufacturer. This incident was a precursor to the more devastating accident at Table Rock Lake in 2018.
The 2018 accident was a turning point for Ride the Ducks. The boat capsized during a severe thunderstorm, resulting in 17 fatalities. The NTSB investigation revealed vulnerabilities in the design of the duck boats, particularly their low freeboard and fixed canopies, which impeded passenger escape. The accident led to widespread scrutiny and legal challenges, ultimately forcing the company to shut down its operations.
The Aftermath and Legacy
Following the Table Rock Lake accident, Ride the Ducks announced the permanent closure of its Branson operation. The company faced overwhelming legal issues and public backlash, leading to its decision to cease operations entirely. The Branson location was replaced by a new attraction, Top Ops, in 2019.
The legacy of Ride the Ducks is marked by both its innovative approach to tourism and the tragic accidents that highlighted the risks of amphibious vehicle operations. The 2018 accident served as a catalyst for change, prompting calls for stricter safety regulations and design modifications. While Ride the Ducks is no longer in operation, its impact on the tourism industry and the lessons learned from its challenges continue to resonate.
