On the morning of October 9, 2023, an accident occurred on the 141-year-old schooner, Grace Bailey, just off of Maine’s coast. The ship’s main mast unexpectedly collapsed onto the deck as the vessel returned from a four-day Fall Foliage cruise carrying 33 passengers and crew members.
In the incident, Dr. Emily Mecklenburg, a 40-year-old medical doctor from Rockland, was fatally injured. Three other individuals sustained critical crush injuries to their head, spine, and other areas. Medical assistance was provided to the wounded: one was airlifted and the others were transported by ambulance to nearby medical facilities.
Despite the calm weather conditions reported at the time, questions have arisen about the ship’s structural integrity, especially considering its age. It’s worth noting that while the Grace Bailey was constructed in 1882, it underwent multiple renovations and refurbishments over the years.
The Coast Guard is investigating the cause. This investigation may continue for weeks or even months. Both the ship’s owner and the captain have expressed deep concern about the event, emphasizing that the safety of passengers has always been their top priority.
Mecklenburg was associated with the MaineHealth system and was a respected Pen Bay Medical Center member in Rockland.