Ms Blackman said they were warned that the ship was sinking and people made their way inside the ferry to put on life jackets.

BBC: Hong Kong collision: Survivors' stories

Survivors of the accident said the ferry had been struck by another faster moving boat, and then sank too rapidly for passengers to put on life jackets and exit the vessel.

FORBES: Hong Kong Ferry Collision Leaves At Least 36 Dead

"We had a whole bunch of life jackets. (We) put it on top to keep the rain off, " Schreck said.

CNN: Family safe after Everglades adventure

They must deposit their life jackets on the shore when landing, in the white canvas bags provided, and put them back on when departing.

NEWYORKER: Stone Mattress