The Sinking of the Marigalante: How a Puerto Vallarta Legend Epicly Submerged (2 photos + 3 videos)
In Mexico, off the picturesque shores of Puerto Vallarta, a tragedy occurred that will forever be etched in the history of local tourism: the sinking of the Marigalante galleon, an exact replica of Christopher Columbus's flagship, the Santa Maria.
Yesterday, October 11, this 700-ton, three-masted wooden giant sank in Banderas Bay off the coast of Puerto Vallarta due to bilge failure. Strong waves caused by the storm filled the hold, and a broken pump prevented the crew from saving the vessel. Despite the efforts of rescuers and the crew, the Marigalante listed and sank off Boca de Tomatlan beach, just 10 minutes from the port.
Built in 1987 at the Alvarado shipyards in Veracruz, the Marigalante was created for the 500th anniversary of the discovery of America in 1992. It crossed the Atlantic to Spain and served as a symbol of Puerto Vallarta for 30 years. Tourists adored its pirate shows with fireworks, acrobatics, and sword fights—up to 50,000 guests visited annually.
But yesterday's storm, which increased waves to 2-3 meters, proved fatal: according to the Puerto Vallarta Civil Protection and firefighters, a mechanical or electrical malfunction prevented the pumps from pumping out water, and the ship began to sink while returning to port for repairs.

Fortunately, the crew and about 100 passengers were evacuated to lifeboats thanks to the quick response of the Coast Guard – there were no casualties. The owner, Naviera Juan de la Cosa, stated: "Thanks to the courage of the crew, everyone was saved, and the Marigalante will now become a reef at 20 meters depth, living in the hearts of all who saw her."
Local authorities are mourning but looking forward: Jalisco Tourism Secretary Mariana Calderón promised that the sister galleon, the Calico Jack, will arrive in Banderas Bay in three months to continue the tradition.