The Real Reason Cornelia Marie Disappeared From Deadliest Catch

The Vanishing of the Cornelia Marie: What Really Happened to Deadliest Catch’s Most Beloved Vessel?

When Deadliest Catch first aired in 2005, audiences were instantly hooked by the brutal reality of crab fishing in the Bering Sea. Among the show’s fleet of fearless vessels, one quickly captured the hearts of fans: the FV Cornelia Marie, a legendary boat once captained by the unforgettable Phil Harris.

With its striking aquamarine and white hull, fierce crew, and emotional backstory, the Cornelia Marie was more than just a fishing boat—it was a symbol of endurance, family, and legacy. But when it mysteriously vanished from Deadliest Catch during Season 13, fans were left stunned. Where did it go? Why wasn’t it featured? And would we ever see it again?

After years of speculation, behind-the-scenes drama, and a trail of personal and legal struggles, the story of the Cornelia Marie’s disappearance is finally coming into focus. Here’s the truth behind one of Deadliest Catch’s most enduring mysteries.

A Legacy Forged at Sea

Built in 1989 in Bayou La Batre, Alabama, the Cornelia Marie was originally commissioned by Ralph Collins and named after his wife. Equipped for long, grueling trips and harsh conditions, the 128-foot vessel was made to haul in king crab, opilio, cod, herring, and salmon.

But it wasn’t until Captain Phil Harris took the helm that the Cornelia Marie became a household name. Known for his grit, charisma, and heart, Phil led the ship and crew through storm after storm—both at sea and in life. Fans were captivated by his bond with his sons, Josh and Jake Harris, and his fierce commitment to the sea.

Tragedy Strikes: The Loss of Captain Phil

Phil Harris’ journey came to a tragic end in 2010. After suffering a stroke while offloading crab in Alaska, he passed away surrounded by his family on February 9th, 2010. The emotional impact was profound—not only on his sons and crewmates, but also on the millions of viewers who had grown to love him.

After his passing, Josh and Jake tried to carry on their father’s legacy. Josh, in particular, stepped up to co-captain the Cornelia Marie alongside Casey McManus, working tirelessly to keep the dream alive.

Season 13: The Disappearance

When Season 13 of Deadliest Catch premiered without the Cornelia Marie, fans were shocked. Rumors swirled. Had the boat been retired? Was it damaged? Was Josh done with the show?

The real reason, as later revealed by Josh, had less to do with the crew and more to do with production decisions by Discovery Channel. According to a 2016 livestream, the Cornelia Marie was not allowed to have cameras onboard that season. The reasons for this remain vague, but Discovery’s choice left both fans and the crew disappointed.

Even though the cameras weren’t rolling, the crew continued fishing through dangerous conditions like always—unseen, but not inactive.

A Triumphant Return, Then Silence

In Season 14, the Cornelia Marie returned to Deadliest Catch, reigniting fans’ hopes. Co-captained by Josh and Casey, the vessel once again became a central figure in the series.

But behind the scenes, Josh Harris was grappling with mounting personal struggles, including the passing of his grandfather and ongoing concerns about his brother Jake’s substance abuse issues. These challenges made the return bittersweet.

Still, the Cornelia Marie fought on—until it vanished again from Deadliest Catch in Seasons 19 and 20, this time more mysteriously than before.

The Real Reason Behind the Final Exit

The Cornelia Marie’s most recent disappearance stems from a combination of legal trouble, internal show politics, and personal fallout.

In 2022, serious legal issues from Josh Harris’s past resurfaced. It was revealed that Josh had been convicted in 1999 for inappropriate behavior toward a minor—an event that occurred long before his Deadliest Catch fame. Still, the news cast a long shadow, and Discovery Channel eventually cut ties with Josh for legal reasons.

Soon after, Casey McManus confirmed on social media that Discovery chose not to renew contracts for him, Josh, or the Cornelia Marie. He called it a “bummer deal” and expressed dissatisfaction with how the show had evolved, hinting that danger was being exaggerated for drama.

With both captains out, the Cornelia Marie vanished once more, leaving a major void in the fleet.

Where Is the Cornelia Marie Now?

Despite being off-camera, the Cornelia Marie isn’t gone for good. In 2022, the vessel was spotted in Dutch Harbor, Alaska, and in June 2024, former deckhand Taylor Jansen posted a photo on Instagram featuring the Cornelia Marie—sparking rumors of a potential comeback.

Fans speculate whether Jansen, known for enduring everything from ankle sprains to falling crab pots, could partner with the vessel’s owners or even return as its captain. While nothing is confirmed, the sight of the Cornelia Marie docked and ready stirs hope that the legendary boat might sail again—perhaps with a new crew, a new mission, and another chapter to write.

Conclusion: A Legacy That Endures

From fierce storms to heartbreaking farewells, the Cornelia Marie has weathered more than most. Through it all, it has remained a symbol of heart, hardship, and hope on the high seas. While it may be absent from our screens for now, its story is far from over.

As longtime fans wait and wonder, one thing is clear: the Cornelia Marie isn’t just a boat. It’s a legend—and legends never truly disappear.