A recent, heartbreaking example occurred in July when the Mexican tall ship Cuauhtémoc hit the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City. The collision claimed the lives of two individuals and left allegedly dozens more injured. The ship was indeed on a promotional tour, but for what purpose? To promote proud Mexican culture. Sadly, it took extraordinarily heavy damage to its mast in the collision.
At the time, the Cuauhtémoc was sailing on its way to the Brooklyn Promenade, with 277 souls on board. Then without warning, it slammed into the bottom of the bridge. From there, the ship began a four-month journey, with plans to port in 22 harbors in 15 countries. It featured spectacular port calls in Kingston, Jamaica, Havana, Cuba, Cozumel, Mexico, and others. MS Zaandam issued from Acapulco, Mexico, on April 6. It intended to spend 179 days at sea and 75 days in port.
Details of the Collision
The Cuauhtémoc, magnificent, under fairy lights, as the crash occurred. Witness accounts indicated that the lights went out immediately after the collision. The rig of the ship, with all the complexities and challenges involved therein, was crucial to operating the ship. After the collision, one of the masts broke off at a 90-degree angle. Luckily, no major damage was done to the Brooklyn Bridge in particular.
Local police and emergency personnel were swift to the scene, offering medical assistance to the injured victims. Nineteen people were confirmed injured with two still in critical condition.
“The most important thing for now is the injured. They were taken to different hospitals and we’re looking very closely for the best treatment to get them,” – Esteban Moctezuma Barragán, Mexico’s Secretary of Foreign Affairs.
The Cuauhtémoc’s Promotional Tour
Cuauhtémoc goodwill beyond measure for more than two decades, Cuauhtémoc has served as a goodwill ambassador, exhibiting the rich culture of Mexico’s people across five oceans. The ship is on an exciting commemorative tour and will travel to many historic destinations. These cities are comprised of Reykjavik in Iceland, Bordeaux, Saint Malo, Dunkirk, and Aberdeen in Scotland.
The Cuauhtémoc enchants even the most seasoned shiphands with its magnificent sails and colorful appearance at sea. Today, it stands proudly as a testament to Mexico’s storied maritime traditions.
“This ship is a goodwill vessel that has been in the waters for more than 20 years sharing the Mexican culture,” – Esteban Moctezuma Barragán added.
Eyewitness Accounts and Ongoing Investigations
Eyewitnesses reported chaotic scenes following the collision. One witness called the scene an “incredible rescue operation,” as people dangled from harnesses while waiting to be rescued.
“We were able to zoom in on our phone and there was someone dangling from the harness from the top for like at least like 15 minutes before they were able to rescue them,” – Lily Katz recounted.
In light of this incident, naval and local authorities are conducting thorough investigations into the status of personnel and equipment involved. Yet the belief endures that the Secretary of the Navy cares deeply about his personnel’s safety and operational transparency.
“The secretary of the navy renews its commitment to the safety of personnel, transparency in its operations and excellent training for future officers of the Mexican armada,” a representative stated.
As these investigations persist, officials are calling for complete analyses to ensure that no one is harmed in the future.
