On this day (19th December) WW1 Shipwreckollections

SS Vinovia (1906-1917)

British cargo vessel SS Vinovia was built in 1906 by Short Brothers Ltd., Sunderland, and at the time of her loss during WW1, the steamer of 7,046 tonnes was owned by the Cunard Steamship Co. Ltd., Liverpool.

Whilst on passage from New York to London, the Vinovia became separated from the rest of the transatlantic convoy, receiving damage to her rudder and lost all of her boats due to bad weather.

On 19 December 1917, the Vinovia was struck by a torpedo from a German U-boat when eight miles South from Wolf Rock, Cornwall. With her decks awash within 40 minutes, a number crew members abandoned ship and were picked up by patrol vessels.

Sadly, nine people still lost their lives.

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