SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — July 2026 — A journey intended to honor the memory of Maria Boisa has become a heartbreaking tragedy for her family and friends after a boat accident in the waters near San Francisco claimed additional lives and left loved ones devastated.
The gathering was meant to be a peaceful tribute to Maria, who passed away in 2015 at the age of 32. Family members and friends came together to celebrate her life and fulfill a meaningful farewell by returning her ashes to the ocean she loved.
Instead, the memorial outing became a day marked by unimaginable grief.
A Memorial Journey Turned Tragic
On Tuesday morning, family and friends departed from San Francisco’s northern waterfront aboard the three-deck cruiser Volare. Under clear skies, the group traveled beneath the Golden Gate Bridge and into the Pacific Ocean for an ashes-scattering ceremony in honor of Maria.
Maria was remembered as someone who had a deep connection with the water. An avid surfer, she found joy and peace in the ocean, making it a fitting location for loved ones to gather and remember her life.
After the ceremony, the group began their return journey toward San Francisco. However, the peaceful trip quickly turned into a disaster when the vessel encountered dangerous conditions.
The Boat Accident
Authorities reported that a powerful wave struck the boat as it was returning, causing the vessel to tilt sharply and begin taking on water.
The Volare was carrying 20 people at the time of the incident. Some passengers were thrown into the water, while others became trapped inside the cabin as the vessel sank.
Emergency crews responded to the scene and launched rescue efforts. Officials later confirmed that two people died in the accident, while two others remained missing after being last seen inside the cabin.
The circumstances surrounding the sinking continue to be reviewed as authorities work to understand what caused the tragic incident.
Losses Within the Boisa Family
Among those lost was Clifford Boisa, who died following the accident. His sister Carol and his wife Jackie were also inside the cabin and are presumed to have drowned.
For the Boisa family, the tragedy has brought another devastating loss during what was already an emotional time of remembrance.
Ralph Boisa, 77, who was unable to attend the voyage from his home in Washington State, expressed his heartbreak over the loss of multiple family members.
“This makes no sense. Half of my siblings are gone,” he said, reflecting the overwhelming grief felt by the family.
A Family Facing Unimaginable Grief
The memorial gathering was intended to provide comfort and closure as loved ones honored Maria’s memory. Instead, the family now faces another painful chapter filled with sorrow and loss.
Those who knew Maria continue to remember her for her love of the ocean, her adventurous spirit, and the memories she created with the people around her. Her life remains a meaningful part of the family’s story, even as they mourn the additional losses caused by the accident.
Reflection
The tragic sinking of the Volare serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the sea and how quickly circumstances can change. A day meant for remembrance became a moment of profound heartbreak that will forever remain part of the Boisa family’s history.
As loved ones grieve, they are holding onto memories of those they lost and finding strength through the bonds that remain.
Heartfelt condolences are extended to the Boisa family, their friends, and everyone affected by this devastating tragedy. May they find comfort in cherished memories, strength in one another, and peace as they honor the lives of those they have lost.
Rest in peace, Maria Boisa, Clifford Boisa, and all those affected by this heartbreaking accident. 🕊️
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