HMS Roedean (Wreck)

United Kingdom / Scotland / Stromness /
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HMS Roedean was built at Barrow and completed in 1897. She displaced over 1000 tons and was 280 feet long.
History: At the start of WW1 the Royal Navy took her over and converted her into a minesweeper. Ironically, it was a mine in the entrance to Scapa Flow - the Sound of Hoxa - that finished her off in 1915.
Diving: The Roedean is unfortunately quite badly damaged owing to clearance blasting. Furthermore she lies in a sheltered and somewhat muddy spot so it is all too easy for divers to stir the silt up. Nonetheless, she is a good second dive as she lies in 15 meters and there is a lot of wreckage on the sea bed to greet the diver. With care, there is still a lot to see and piece together.
Nearby cities:
Coordinates:   58°48'46"N   3°9'42"W

Comments

  • HMS ROEBUCK was not sunk by a mine. In a storm she either dragged her anchor or the anchor cable parted allowing her to rapidly drift onto the bow ram of HMS IMPERIEUSE. Roebuck was badly holed in the engine room and rapidly filled and sank. This was confirmed at the Naval Court of Enquiry held on HMS BLAKE on 18.01.1918
This article was last modified 4 years ago