Maria Asumpta was launched at Badalona in 1858, and was involved in the textile trade between Argentina and Spain; later she was used to transport slaves and salt.

Mark Litchfield and Robin Cecil Wright, who had founded the China Clipper Society, bought the Ciudad de Inca for the value of her engines.

The sinking of the barque Marques (also owned by Robin Cecil Wright) was the key trigger in a chain of events that embroiled Ciudad de Inca in a legal battle.

While sailing from Toronto to Rochester, the vessel received a radio communication informing the crew of the abrupt legal action in relation to the sinking of Marques.

[3] Litchfield later stated that the reason for sailing fairly close to shore was to enjoy the view and to benefit from the strong tidal race.

[3] The Marine Accident Investigation Branch carried out an enquiry into the loss of the Maria Asumpta, and the subsequent report was used in evidence by Mark Litchfield at his trial.

[4][a] Litchfield was charged with the manslaughter of the three crew members who died, due to his gross negligence in navigating too close to the shore, knowing that the diesel was contaminated.

[3] At the conclusion of the trial, the jury returned a majority verdict of guilty and Litchfield was jailed for eighteen months by Mr Justice Butterfield.

[7] A memorial to the three crew who died in the wreck of Maria Asumpta carved by sculptor Philip Chatfield who was also aboard the ship when it sank was erected in St Enodoc Church, Trebetherick.