FV Pelican

FV Pelican was a 42-foot fishing vessel with an enclosed cabin that operated from the Fishangrila Dock at Fort Pond Bay in Montauk. The boat weighed approximately 14 gross register tons and was configured to carry passengers on fishing trips.

The vessel capsized on September 1, 1951, during a Labor Day weekend excursion near Montauk Point. The disaster claimed 45 lives and prompted the adoption of stricter passenger safety rules for commercial vessels.

The vessel served as a connection between New York City residents and recreational fishing, with visitors arriving on special trains to board for their excursions. It represented an important leisure activity for city dwellers seeking escape and outdoor recreation.

Visitors can learn about the vessel's history through local museums and memorials in Montauk. Most information about the ship is now preserved in historical records and commemorations accessible to those interested in maritime history.

The sinking of the vessel led to the adoption of passenger capacity regulations in 1957 that set strict limits for commercial ships. These rules marked a major shift in maritime safety standards and influenced vessel design practices for years to come.

Location: New York

GPS coordinates: 41.07080,-71.84210

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:05