The book was the subject of criticism in Larry Kusche's 1975 work The Bermuda Triangle Mystery—Solved, in which Kusche cites errors in the reports of missing ships, and has also said "If Berlitz were to report that a boat were red, the chance of it being some other color is almost a certainty.

"[2] Lloyd's of London has determined the Triangle to be no more dangerous than any other piece of the ocean, and does not charge unusual rates of insurance for passage through the area.

However, tales of missing ships, although promoted by Berlitz, existed prior to the book's publication.

He first heard of these tales at his travel agency, wondering why his customers requested to avoid flying over this region.

The book was produced with the collaboration of J. Manson Valentine, who provided photos and illustrations.