On this day (15th February) WW1 Shipwreckollections

SS San Rito (1916-1918)

SS San Rito was a British merchant steamer built in 1916 by Workman, Clark & Co. Ltd., Belfast. Two years later, at the time of her loss, the San Rito was owned by United Fruit Co., Glasgow.

On 15 February 1918, travelling on a voyage from Salonica to Port Said in ballast, the British ship of 3,310 tonnes was torpedoed without warning by a German U-boat under the command of Otto Kumpel. The attack caused the San Rito to sink 23 miles SW of Cape Mastiko, Khios Island.

Sadly, three people lost their lives as a result.

The Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society has offered assistance for fishermen and mariners in need since 1839. The maritime charity provides help for mariners, retired seafarers and their dependants, through financial help including welfare grants, as well as assistance and support.

Photo credit: wrecksite.eu