First Ship to Sink in the Bermuda Triangle? No Definitive Answer

The Bermuda Triangle Myth vs. Reality

There is no historically verified "first ship" that sank in the Bermuda Triangle. The region's reputation stems from:

• Sensationalized media: 1950s–70s articles/books (e.g., Charles Berlitz) amplified ordinary maritime incidents.
• Normal accident rates: The area's heavy traffic, hurricanes, Gulf Stream, and methane hydrates explain losses statistically.
• No official boundary: The "triangle" varies by source (Miami–Bermuda–Puerto Rico is common).

Notable Early Incidents (Often Cited)

• USS Cyclops (1918): Navy collier vanished with 309 aboard—largest non-combat loss.
• Flight 19 (1945): Five TBM Avengers lost on training mission; rescue plane also vanished.
• SS Marine Sulphur Queen (1963): Tanker lost with 39 crew.

None were "first." The U.S. Coast Guard and NOAA state the Bermuda Triangle has no exceptional hazard rate. Most "mysteries" have plausible explanations (weather, human error, equipment failure).