SPECIAL EDITION: Mia Wrecked on Baja

We can think of few worse ways to end 2010 than to lose your boat. Sadly, it appears that B.C.-based Paul Smulders and Julie Newton, who were interviewed for October’s Passing Thru article, lost their beloved — and beautiful — 43-ft Laurent Giles-designed woody Mia II on a remote Baja beach the night before last. Julie’s brother John emailed last night with the few details he had:

"Mia suffered mechanical troubles as the weather came up near San Jose and was driven first onto a beach, then onto rocks. Julie and Paul, with the aid of local fishermen, have been salvaging as much gear as possible from the boat but require assistance."

Paul and Julie, who call Mia home, have sailed together for many thousands of bluewater miles — from B.C. to Cape Horn and back — and are undoubtedly in shock. They’re currently at a loss for how to move their salvaged gear back north. If you are in the area, or know anyone who is, and can help ferry gear to San Diego, please email John.