List of shipwrecks in February 1940

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The list of shipwrecks in February 1940 includes all ships sunk, foundered, grounded, or otherwise lost during February 1940. Most of the ships listed here were lost in connection with World War II.

February 1940
Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun
1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10 11
12 13 14 15 16 17 18
19 20 21 22 23 24 25
26 27 28 29 Unknown date


1 February

List of shipwrecks: 1 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Ellen M  United Kingdom World War II: The coaster was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-59 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all nine crew.[1][2]
Fram  Sweden World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea off New Aberdour, Morayshire, United Kingdom (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-13 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of six of her 19 crew. The survivors were rescued by HMS Khartoum and HMT Viking Deeps (both  Royal Navy)[1][3]
Picardie  France The tanker struck a submerged object in the Atlantic Ocean 450 nautical miles (830 km) north west of the Azores, Portugal (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) and broke in two. The bow section sank. The stern section was towed to Oran, Algeria. Surviving wartime damage, it was sold to Norway in 1949, a new bow section was built and she returned to service as Sirefjell.[4][5]

2 February

List of shipwrecks: 2 February 1940
Ship Country Description
British Councillor  United Kingdom World War II: Convoy AN 8442: The tanker struck a mine and was damaged in the North Sea off Withernsea, Yorkshire (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.). The crew was rescued by HMS Gallant, HMS Griffin (H31) and HMS Whitley (all  Royal Navy), which took 43 survivors. The tug Yorkshireman ( United Kingdom) was despatched to tow British Councillor into port, but the tanker sank the next day.[1][6]
Creofield  United Kingdom World War II: The coastal tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea off Lowestoft, Suffolk (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-59 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 17 crew.[1][7]
Kavak  United Kingdom World War II: Convoy HX 90: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean west of Ireland by U-101 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 25 of her 41 crew.[8]
Portelet  United Kingdom World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea off Great Yarmouth, Norfolk (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-59 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of two of her 11 crew. The survivors were rescued by Oscar Midling ( Finland).[1][9][10]
Teresa 23x15px Spain The coaster ran aground at Azemmour, Morocco and was wrecked.[11]

3 February

List of shipwrecks: 3 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Armanistan  United Kingdom World War II: Convoy OG 16: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk off the mouth of the Tagus, Portugal (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-25 ( Kriegsmarine). All crew were rescued by Monte Abril (23x15px Spain).[12]
Charles  Belgium The cargo ship was driven ashore at Whitby Yorkshire, United Kingdom (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.).[13]
Pallas  Norway The coaster collided in the North Sea off Haugesund, Rogaland with Wipunen ( Finland) and sank.[14]
Reet  Estonia World War II: The coaster was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea east of the Orkney Islands, United Kingdom by U-58 ( Kriegsmarine with the loss of all 18 crew.[15]
HMS Sphinx  Royal Navy World War II: The Halcyon class minesweeper was bombed and damaged in the North Sea off Kinnaird Head, Aberdeenshire by Heinkel He 111 aircraft of KG26, Luftwaffe with the loss of 49 crew. She was taken in tow by HMS Speedwell ( Royal Navy) but the tow parted. HMS Speedwell and HMS Harrier ( Royal Navy) then attempted to take HMS Sphinx in tow but were unsuccessful. The survivors were rescued by HMS Boreas ( Royal Navy). HMS Sphinx capsized the next day and drifted ashore. She was declared a total loss.[1]
Tempo  Norway World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk in the North Sea off St Abb's Head, Berwickshire, United Kingdom Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found. by Heinkel He 111 aircraft of KG26, Luftwaffe, with the loss of five of her 14 crew. The survivors were rescued by the tug Brahmam ( United Kingdom).[1][16][17]

4 February

List of shipwrecks: 4 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Eminent  Belgium The cargo ship ran aground on the east coast of the United Kingdom.[18]
Flores  Netherlands World War II: The coaster struck a mine and sank in the North Sea east of Burnham on Crouch, Essex.[19]
Hop  Norway World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-37 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 17 crew.[1][20]
Leo Dawson  United Kingdom World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea east of the Shetland Islands (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-37 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 35 crew.[1][21]
Vid  Yugoslavia World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-21 ( Kriegsmarine).[1][22]

5 February

List of shipwrecks: 5 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Beaverburn  United Kingdom World War II: Convoy OB 84: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean south west of Cornwall (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by German submarine U-41 (1939) with the loss of one of her 40 crew. The survivors were rescued by Narranganset ( United States).[1][23][24]
Karen  Denmark The schooner was sunk in the North Sea off Methil, Fife, United Kingdom by an explosion.[25]
U-41  Kriegsmarine World War II: The Type IXA submarine was depth charged and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by HMS Antelope ( Royal Navy) with the loss of all 49 crew.[1]

6 February

List of shipwrecks: 6 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Anu  Estonia World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine off the mouth of the Tay, Scotland and sank killing the Master, his Wife and 5 crewmembers of the 19 people on board.[1][26][27]
Delfina 23x15px Spain The cargo ship ran aground at Bonanza, Spain and was wrecked.[28]
Highcliffe  United Kingdom World War II: The cargo ship ran aground at Melby, Shetland Islands and was wrecked.[29]
Veteran  Marine Nationale World War II: The auxiliary minesweeper collided with Alert ( United Kingdom) in the English Channel off Cap Griz Nez, Pas-de-Calais (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found. and sank. All crew were rescued.[1]
Verbormilia  United Kingdom World War II: The cargo ship ran aground at Fast Castle Point, Berwickshire.[30]
Wirgo  Sweden Winter War: The coaster was bombed and sunk in the Baltic Sea off the Åland Islands by aircraftof the 10th Air Brigade, Soviet Air Force.[31][32]

7 February

List of shipwrecks: 7 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Eldonpark  United Kingdom The ship ran aground and was wrecked near Port Eynon, Glamorgan. Her 37 crew were rescued by the Mumbles Lifeboat.[33]
Munster  United Kingdom [34]World War II: The ferry struck a mine and sank in Liverpool Bay (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.). All 134 on board were rescued by Ringwall ( United Kingdom).[1][6][35][36]
Zitella  United Kingdom The cargo ship ran aground at Boddam, Aberdeenshire and was wrecked.[37]

9 February

List of shipwrecks: 9 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Agnes Allen  United Kingdom World War II: The trawler struck a mine and sank in the Irish Sea.[1]
Chagres  United Kingdom World War II: The refrigerated cargo ship struck a mine and sank in the Irish Sea off Liverpool, Lancashire with the loss of two of her 64 crew. Survivors were rescued by HMT Loch Montreith ( Royal Navy).[38][39][40]
Chaumoise  France The cargo ship foundered in the Bay of Biscay off Les Sables d'Olonne, Vendée.[41]
HMT Fort Royal  Royal Navy World War II: The naval trawler was bombed and sunk in the North Sea north east of Aberdeen by Heinkel He 111 aircraft of KG26, Luftwaffe with the loss of seven crew. The survivors were rescued by HMT Ohm and HMT Thomas Altoft (both  Royal Navy).[1]
HMT Robert Bowen  Royal Navy World War II: The naval trawler was bombed and sunk in the North sea 20 nautical miles (37 km) north east of Aberdeen by Luftwaffe aircraft with the loss of all 14 crew.[42]

10 February

List of shipwrecks: 10 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Branksea  United Kingdom The cargo ship sank in the North Sea off Montrose, Angus, United Kingdom.[43]
Burgerdijk  Netherlands World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean 15 nautical miles (28 km) off Bishop Rock, United Kingdom Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-48 ( Kriegsmarine). All crew were rescued by Edam ( Netherlands).[1][44][45]
USS Monocacy  United States Navy The decommissioned river gunboat was scuttled off China.
Sea Rambler  United Kingdom The cargo ship foundered in the Atlantic Ocean north west of the Azores, Portugal.[46]
Silja  Norway World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean south west of Ireland (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-37 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 16 crew.[1][47]
Theresa Boyle  United Kingdom World War II: The trawler was bombed and sunk in the North Sea 115 nautical miles (213 km) east by north of Aberdeen by Heinkel He 111 aircraft of KG26, Luftwaffe. The survivors were rescued by HMT Almandine and HMT Brabant (both  Royal Navy).[1][48]

11 February

List of shipwrecks: 11 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Cisnell  United Kingdom World War II: The trawler was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean 70 nautical miles (130 km) off the Fastnet Rock by a German submarine.[49]
Halifax  United Kingdom World War II: The trawler struck a mine and sank in the North Sea off Aldeburgh, Suffolk (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.). All crew were rescued by Ipswich ( United Kingdom).[1]
Imperial Transport  United Kingdom
File:Build-the-ships-8a-2-001.jpg
The stern section of Imperial Transport beached in Kilchattan Bay.

World War II: The tanker was torpedoed and damaged in the Atlantic Ocean north west of the Outer Hebrides (approximately Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-53 ( Kriegsmarine). Two crew were killed. Imperial Transport broke in two. The bow section sank. The stern section was taken in tow by the tugs Englisman and St Martin (both  United Kingdom) and beached at Kilchattan Bay, Bute on 26 February. A new bow section was constructed and the ship was repaired and re-entered service in 1941.[1][50]

Linda  Estonia World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea 100 nautical miles (190 km) west of Utsira, Norway (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-9 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of one of her 15 crew. The survivors were rescued by Birgitta ( Sweden).[1][51][52]
Orania  Sweden World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea 60 nautical miles (110 km) north east of the Shetland Islands United Kingdom by U-50 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 14 of the 24 people aboard. The survivors were rescued by HMS Fearless ( Royal Navy).[1][53][54]
Snestad  Norway World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean west of the Hebrides, United Kingdom Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-52 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of two of her 40 crew. Survivors were rescued by Albert L. Ellsworth ( Norway).[1][55][56]
Togimo  United Kingdom World War II: The trawler was shelled and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean west of Cornwall (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-37 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of one of her 11 crew. The survivors were rescued by Monte Navajo (23x15px Spain).[1][57][58]

12 February

List of shipwrecks: 12 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Dalarö  Sweden World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean north west of Ireland (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-53 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of one of her 29 crew. The survivors were rescued by the trawler Jan de Waele ( Belgium).[1][59][60]
Flandres  Belgium The cargo ship collided with Kabalo ( Belgium) in The Downs, Kent, United Kingdom (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found. and sank.[61]
Nidarholm  Norway World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed, shelled and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-26 ( Kriegsmarine) The ship was split in two, with the bow section sinking that day and the stern section sometime afterwards. All 25 crew were rescued by Berto ( Norway.[1][62]
O H Bewaar Ons  Belgium World War II: The trawler struck a mine in the North Sea and sank.[1]
Sangstad  Norway World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-61 ( Kriegsmarine with the loss of one of her 29 crew.[63]
Steur  Belgium World War II: The trawler struck a mine in the North Sea 10 nautical miles (19 km) north west of the West Hinder Lightship and sank.[1]
U-33  Kriegsmarine World War II: The Type VIIA submarine was depth charged and sunk in the Firth of Clyde by HMS Gleaner with the loss of 25 of her 42 crew.

13 February

List of shipwrecks: 13 February 1940
Ship Country Description
British Triumph  United Kingdom World War II: Convoy FS 93: The tanker struck a mine and was damaged in the North Sea off Cromer, Norfolk (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) with the loss of four of her 47 crew. The survivors were rescued by British Officer ( United Kingdom) and HMS Stork ( Royal Navy). British Officer attempted to tow British Triumph. The tug Irishman ( United Kingdom) was sent out, but British Triumph sank before she arrived.[1][59][64]
Chastine Maersk  Denmark World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea 70 nautical miles (130 km) west of Norway (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-25 ( Kriegsmarine). All 30 crew were rescued by Hilda ( Norway).[65][66]
Norna  Sweden World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-52 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 18 crew.[1][67][68]
Wakama  Germany World War II: The cargo ship was intercepted by HMS Devonshire ( Royal Navy in the Atlantic Ocean off Cape Frio, Brazil (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) and was scuttled by her crew.

14 February

List of shipwrecks: 14 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Giorgio Ohlsen  Italy World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine and sank in the North Sea (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found. with the loss of 17 of her 33 crew. The survivors were rescued by Lolworth ( United Kingdom).[1][69][70]
Glendunn  United Kingdom The cargo ship ran aground at Cornaa, Isle of Man and was wrecked.[71]
Gretafield  United Kingdom World War II: Convoy HX 18: The tanker straggled behind the convoy. She was torpedoed and set on fire in the North Sea south east of Noss Head, Shetland Islands (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-57 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of ten of her 41 crew. The 31 survivors were rescued by HMT Peggy Nutten and HMT Strathalladale (both  Royal Navy). The burning wreck came ashore at Dunbeath, Caithness on 15 February and broke in two four days later. She was declared a total loss.[1][72]
Langleeford  United Kingdom World War II: Convoy HX 18: The cargo ship straggled behind the convoy. She was torpedoed and in the Atlantic Ocean 70 nautical miles (130 km) nort west of the Fastnet Rock (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.), by U-26 with the loss of four of her 34 crew.[1][73][74][75]
Martin Goldschmidt  Denmark World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean north west of Ireland (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-53 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 15 of her 20 crew. The survivors were rescued by Berto ( Norway).[1][76]
Sultan Star  United Kingdom World War II: The cargo liner was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean approximately 200 nautical miles (370 km) south west of Land's End, Cornwall (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-48 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of one of her 76 crew. The survivors were rescued by HMS Whitshed.[1][59][77]

15 February

List of shipwrecks: 15 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Aase  Denmark World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean south west of Cornwall (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-37 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 15 of her 16 crew. The survivor was rescued on 17 February by HMS Verity ( Royal Navy).[78][79][80]
Den Haag  Netherlands World War II: The tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the Bay of Biscay (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-48 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 26 of her 39 crew. The survivors were rescued by Glen Orchy ( United Kingdom).[78][81]
Maryland  Denmark World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean west of the Hebrides, United Kingdom (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-50 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 34 crew.[78][82][83][84]
Rhone  Denmark World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea east of Caithness, United Kingdom, by U-14 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of nine of her 20 crew. The survivors were rescued by HMS Kipling ( Royal Navy) and the trawler Standard ( Sweden).[78][85][86]
Sleipner  Denmark World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Moray Firth (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-14 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 13 of her 41 crew. Survivors were rescued by HMS Kipling ( Royal Navy) and the trawler Standard ( Sweden).[78][85][87][88]
Steinstad  Norway World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean 50 nautical miles (93 km)west of County Clare, Ireland by U-26 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 13 of her 24 crew.[78][89]
USS Wicomico  United States Navy The tug collided with USS Goff ( United States Navy) in Hampton Roads and sank. The wreck was later raised and scrapped.

16 February

List of shipwrecks: 16 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Altmark  Kriegsmarine World War II: Altmark Incident: The tanker ran aground in Jøssingfjord, Norway trying to evade HMS Cossack ( Royal Navy). Later refloated, repaired and returned to service as Uckermark ( Kriegsmarine).[90]
Baldur  Germany World War II: Altmark Incident: The cargo ship was intercepted west of Jøssingfjord, Norway by HMS Arethusa ( Royal Navy) and was scuttled by her crew.
Liana  Sweden World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea 20 nautical miles (37 km) north of Kinnaird Head, Aberdeenshire, United Kingdom by U-14 ( Germany) with the loss of ten of her 20 crew. The survivors were rescued by the trawler Loch Hope ( United Kingdom) and cargo ship Santos ( Sweden.[73][78][91]
Osmed  Sweden World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea 20 nautical miles (37 km) north of Kinnaird Head, Aberdeenshire, United Kingdom by U-14 ( Germany) with the loss of 13 of her 20 crew. The survivors were rescued by the trawler Loch Hope ( United Kingdom).[73][78][92]

17 February

List of shipwrecks: 17 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Baron Ailsa  United Kingdom World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine and sank in the North Sea north of Inverness-shire (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) with the loss of two of her 36 crew. The survivors were rescued by HMT Beech ( Royal Navy).[1][93][94]
Cheldale  United Kingdom The cargo ship collided with Greystoke Castle ( United Kingdom) in the Indian Ocean 24 nautical miles (44 km) off Durban, South Africa with the loss of 16 of her 35 crew.[95][96]
El Sonador  Panama World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk east of the Shetland Islands by U-61 ( Kriegsmarine).[97]
Kvernaas  Norway World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea 4 nautical miles (7.4 km) north west of the Schouwenbank, Netherlands (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-10 ( Kriegsmarine). All 20 crew were rescued by Oranjepolder ( Netherlands).[78][98][99]
Odysseus  Greece World War II: The cargo shp sank in the Atlantic Ocean off Cape Finisterre.[100]
Pyrrhus  United Kingdom World War II: Convoy OG 18: The cargo liner straggled behind the convoy. She was torpedoed and damaged in the Atlantic Ocean north of Cape Finisterre (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-37 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of eight of her 86 crew. The ship broke in two, with the stern section sinking. The bow section sank two days later. The survivors were rescued by Sinnington Court and Uskside (both  United Kingdom).[78][101][102]
Wilja  Finland World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean south west of the Isles of Scilly, United Kingdom (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-48 ( Kriegsmarine). All 27 crew were rescued by Maasdam1921 ( Netherlands) and HMS Vanessa ( Royal Navy).[78][103]

18 February

List of shipwrecks: 18 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Ameland  Netherlands World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea off the Maasbank Buoy (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-10 ( Kriegsmarine). All 48 crew were rescued by Montferland ( Netherlands).[78][98][104]
Banderas 23x15px Spain World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean 8 nautical miles (15 km) north west of Cape Villano by U-53 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 22 of her 29 crew. The survivors were rescued by the fishing vessel Tritonia (23x15px Spain).[78][105][106][107]
Bore III  Finland Winter War: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk off Mäntyluoto, Finland by Soviet aircraft.[108]
Bore IV  Finland Winter War: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk off Mäntyluoto, Finland by Soviet aircraft.[108]
HMS Daring  Royal Navy World War II: Convoy HN 12: The D-class destroyer was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea off Duncansby Head, Caithness (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-23 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 157 of her 162 crew.
Ellin  Greece World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean 25 nautical miles (46 km) north west of Cape Finisterre, Spain by U-37)  Kriegsmarine). All crew were rescued by the fishing boat Manin (23x15px Spain) and landed at Á Coruña.[78][105][109][110]
El Sonador  Panama World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea east of the Shetland Islands, United Kingdom by U-61 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 17 crew.[78][111]
Ilsenstein  United Kingdom World War II: The cargo ship was scuttled as a blockship in Skerry Sound, Scapa Flow, Orkney Islands.[112]
PLM 15  France World War II: Convoy RS 10: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean off Cape Finisterre (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-37 ( Kriegsmarine)with the loss of all 42 crew.[78][113][114]
Rigel  Finland Winter War: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk off Mäntyluoto, Finland by Soviet aircraft.[108]
Sangstad  Norway World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea east of Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, United Kingdom (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-61 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of one of her 29 crew. Survivors were rescued by HMS Brazen and HMS Diana (both  Royal Navy).[63][115]

19 February

List of shipwrecks: 19 February 1940
Ship Country Description
SS Busk  United Kingdom World War II: The Admiralty requisitioned cargo ship was scuttled in Kirk Sound, Scapa Flow as a Block Ship.[116]
MV Lycia  United Kingdom World War II: The Admiralty requisitioned cargo ship was scuttled in Skerry Sound, Scapa Flow as a Block Ship.[117]
Tiberton  United Kingdom World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Moray Firth (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-23 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 33 crew.[78]

20 February

List of shipwrecks: 20 February 1940
Ship Country Description
HMT Fifeshire  Royal Navy World War II: The naval trawler was bombed and sunk in the North Sea (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by Heinkel He 111 aircraft of KG26, Luftwaffe with the loss of 20 of her 21 crew.[78][118][119]
Fox  United Kingdom The cargo ship collided with Lord Elgin ( United Kingdom) in the Solent and sank.[120]
Hawnby  United Kingdom World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine and sank in the Thames Estuary north of Herne Bay, Kent.[121]

21 February

List of shipwrecks: 21 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Loch Maddy  United Kingdom World War II: Convoy HX 19: The cargo ship straggled behind the convoy. She was torpedoed and damaged in the North Sea east of the Orkney Islands (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-57 ( Kriegsmarine). She was taken in tow but was torpedoed and sunk the next day by U-23 ( Kriegsmarine) and broke in two.. Four of her crew were killed. Thirty three survivors were rescued by HMS Diana ( Royal Navy). The bow section sank, whilst the stern section was beached in Inganess Bay, Orkney Islands for the salvage of her cargo of aircraft, timber and wheat. She was declared a total loss.[78][122][123][124]
Tara  Netherlands World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean west of Cape Finisterre, Spain (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-50 ( Kriegsmarine). All crew were rescued by Fantasque ( Marine Nationale) and the trawler Milin (23x15px Spain).[78][125][126]
YM 49  Netherlands World War II: The trawler struck a mine in the North Sea and sank.[78]

22 February

List of shipwrecks: 22 February 1940
Ship Country Description
British Endeavour  United Kingdom World War II: Convoy OGF 19: The tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean north west of Cape Finisterre, Spain (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-50 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of five of her 38 crew. The survivors were rescued by Bodnant ( United Kingdom).[78][127]
Leberecht Maass  Kriegsmarine World War II: Operation Wikinger: The Type 1934-class destroyer was bombed and damaged by a Heinkel He 111 aircraft of X Fliegerkorps, Luftwaffe. She strayed into a minefield in the Dogger Bank, struck a mine and sank with the loss of 282 of her 342 crew. The survivors were rescued by Erich Koellner, Friedrich Eckoldt and Richard Beitzen (all  Kriegsmarine).[78]
Max Schultz  Kriegsmarine World War II: Operation Wikinger: The Type 1934-class destroyer struck a mine in the Dogger Bank whilst attempting to rescue survivors from Leberecht Maass and sank with the loss of all 308 crew.

23 February

List of shipwrecks: 23 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Benvolio  Royal Navy World War II: The naval trawler struck a mine and sank off the mouth of the Humber with the loss of ten of her 15 crew.[79][128]
Torbrand  Norway The cargo ship ran aground at Skudenes, Rogaland and was wrecked.[129]
U-53  Kriegsmarine World War II: The Type VIIB submarine was depth charged and sunk ln the North Sea off the Orkney Islands, United Kingdom (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by HMS Gurkha ( Royal Navy) with the loss of all 42 crew.[130]

24 February

List of shipwrecks: 24 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Clan Morrison  United Kingdom World War II: Convoy FN 102: The cargo ship struck a mine in the North Sea north of Cromer Norfolk (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) and sank with the loss of one of her 32 crew. The survivors were rescued by HMT Nogi ( Royal Navy).[1][131][132]
Ejjam  Denmark World War II: The fishing boat was rammed and sunk off the Dogger Bank, North Sea by M-1 ( Kriegsmarine). The German ship deliberately avoided rescuing survivors.[108]
Gerlis  Denmark World War II: The fishing boat was rammed and sunk off the Dogger Bank, North Sea by M-1 ( Kriegsmarine). The German ship deliberately avoided rescuing survivors.[108]
Jevington Court  United Kingdom World War II: Convoy FS 103: The cargo ship struck a mine and sank in the North Sea off Cromer, Norfolk. All crew were rescued by Dunoon ( Royal Navy).[1][79][133]
Merkator  Denmark World War II: The fishing boat was rammed and sunk off the Dogger Bank, North Sea by M-1 ( Kriegsmarine). The German ship deliberately avoided rescuing survivors.[108]
Polaris  Denmark World War II: The fishing boat was rammed and sunk off the Dogger Bank, North Sea by M-1 ( Kriegsmarine). The German ship deliberately avoided rescuing survivors.[108]
Royal Archer  United Kingdom World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine in the Firth of Forth (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) and sank. All 28 crew were rescued by HMS Weston ( Royal Navy).[78][134][135]
Santos  Sweden World War II: Convoy HN 14: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea off Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, United Kingdom, (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-63 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 31 of the 43 people on board, which included survivors from Liana ( Sweden), six of the eight survivors from that ship were killed. The survivors were rescued by HMS Gallant ( Royal Navy) and landed at Invergordon, Ross and Cromarty.[78][136][137]
U-63  Kriegsmarine World War II: The Type IIC submarine was depth charged, torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea south of the Shetland Islands, United Kingdom (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by HMS Escort, HMS Inglefield, and HMS Imogen (all ( Royal Navy) with the loss of one of her 25 crew. The survivors were rescued by HMS Inglefield and HMS Imogen.[78]

25 February

List of shipwrecks: 25 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Castlemoor  United Kingdom World War II: Convoy HX 20: The cargo ship was last seen in the Atlantic Ocean 800 nautical miles (1,500 km) west of Ouessant, France. No further trace, presumed foundered with the loss of all 42 crew.[78][138][139]

26 February

List of shipwrecks: 26 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Elos  United Kingdom The cargo ship collided with some flotsam in the North Sea and sank. All 18 crew were rescued.[132]
Ida  United Kingdom The coaster sank in the Irish Sea 30 nautical miles (56 km) south south west of the Smalls Lighthouse, Pembrokeshire, United Kingdom with the loss of four crew.[140]
Nordia  Sweden World War II: Convoy ON 15: The cargo ship collided with HMS Imperial ( Royal Navy) in the North Sea (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) and sank with the loss of two crew.[78]
Orizaba  Nazi Germany World War II: The blockade runner ran aground off Skjervøy, Norway (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) and was wrecked.[78] The survivors were rescued by Margareta ( Finland).[78][141][142]

27 February

List of shipwrecks: 27 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Ben Attow  United Kingdom World War II: The trawler either struck a mine or was bombed/torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea off the coast of Fife by Heinkel He 111 aircraft of KG26, Luftwaffe with the loss of all nine crew.[78][143][144]
Orion  Finland The coaster foundered in the North Sea east of the Shetland Islands, United Kingdom.[145]
PLM 25  France World War II: Convoy FS 106: The collier struck a mine and was damaged in the North Sea (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.). She was taken in tow by HMS Flamingo ( Royal Navy) but struck another mine and sank with the loss of four of the 43 crew. The survivors were rescued by HMS Wallace ( Royal Navy).[1][143][146]
Storfors  Sweden The cargo ship collided with HMS Jackal ( Royal Navy) in the North Sea 12.8 nautical miles (23.7 km) off the Longstone Lighthouse, Northumberland, United Kingdom and sank. All 14 crew were rescued by HMS Jackal.[78]

28 February

List of shipwrecks: 28 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Stofoss  Sweden The coaster sank in the North Sea off Craster, Northumberland.[147]
Ulster Queen  United Kingdom The passenger ship ran aground off Ramsey, Isle of Man. All on board were rescued. She was refloated on 27 March.[148][149]

29 February

List of shipwrecks: 29 February 1940
Ship Country Description
Maria Rosa  Italy World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea south east of Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, United Kingdom (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) by U-20 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 12 of her 29 crew.[150][151][152]

Unknown Date

List of shipwrecks: Unknown Date 1940
Ship Country Description
U-54  Kriegsmarine World War II: The Type VIIB submarine departed from Wilhelmshaven, Lower Saxony on her first patrol. No further trace. Presumed to have struck a mine in the Skagerrak (Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.) on or about 12 February with the loss of all 41 crew.[1]

References

  1. 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 1.13 1.14 1.15 1.16 1.17 1.18 1.19 1.20 1.21 1.22 1.23 1.24 1.25 1.26 1.27 1.28 1.29 1.30 1.31 1.32 1.33 1.34 1.35 1.36 1.37 1.38 1.39 1.40 1.41 Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  2. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  3. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  4. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  5. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  6. 6.0 6.1 "Passenger Ship Sunk" The Times (London). Thursday, 8 February 1940. (48534), col G, p. 8.
  7. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  8. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  9. "Two Killed In Mined Steamer" The Times (London). Tuesday, 6 February 1940. (48532), col F, p. 8.
  10. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  11. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  12. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  13. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  14. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  15. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  16. "Norwegian Ship Sunk By Bombs" The Times (London). Monday, 5 February 1940. (48531), col E, p. 6.
  17. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
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  19. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  20. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  21. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  22. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  23. "Canadian Liner Sunk" The Times (London). Tuesday, 6 February 1940. (48532), col F, p. 8.
  24. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  25. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  26. "Twelve Hours Adrift On A Raft" The Times (London). Thursday, 8 February 1940. (48534), col G, p. 8.
  27. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  28. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  29. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  30. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  31. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  32. "Swedish Ship Sunk By Red Bombers" The Times (London). Wednesday, 7 February 1940. (48533), col D, p. 8.
  33. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  34. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  35. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  36. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  37. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  38. "Glasgow Steamer Sunk" The Times (London). Saturday, 10 February 1940. (48536), col G, p. 6.
  39. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  40. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  41. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  42. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  43. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  44. "Dutch Steamer Torpedoed" The Times (London). Tuesday, 13 February 1940. (45838), col C, p. 5.
  45. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  46. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  47. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  48. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  49. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  50. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  51. "Estonian Ship Sunk" The Times (London). Tuesday, 13 February 1940. (45838), col C, p. 5.
  52. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  53. "Swedish Ship Sunk Without Warning" The Times (London). Wednesday, 14 February 1940. (48539), col G, p. 3.
  54. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  55. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  56. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  57. "28 Hours In Boat" The Times (London). Wednesday, 14 February 1940. (48539), col G, p. 3.
  58. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  59. 59.0 59.1 59.2 "Two U-boats Sunk" The Times (London). Thursday, 15 February 1940. (48540), col G, p. 8.
  60. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  61. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  62. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  63. 63.0 63.1 Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  64. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  65. "Danish Ship Sunk By U-boat" The Times (London). Thursday, 15 February 1940. (48540), col G, p. 8.
  66. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  67. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  68. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  69. "Italian Ship Sunk By Mine" The Times (London). Friday, 16 February 1940. (48521), col C, p. 8.
  70. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  71. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  72. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  73. 73.0 73.1 73.2 "Norwegian Protests To Germany" The Times (London). Saturday, 17 February 1940. (48542), col G, p. 6.
  74. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  75. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  76. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  77. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  78. 78.00 78.01 78.02 78.03 78.04 78.05 78.06 78.07 78.08 78.09 78.10 78.11 78.12 78.13 78.14 78.15 78.16 78.17 78.18 78.19 78.20 78.21 78.22 78.23 78.24 78.25 78.26 78.27 78.28 78.29 78.30 78.31 Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  79. 79.0 79.1 79.2 "Naval Trawler Sunk By A Mine" The Times (London). Monday, 26 February 1940. (48549), col B, p. 3.
  80. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  81. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  82. "Danish Ship With Crew Of 34 Feared Lost" The Times (London). Wednesday, 28 February 1940. (48551), col B, p. 7.
  83. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  84. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  85. 85.0 85.1 "Two Danish Ships Torpedoed" The Times (London). Saturday, 17 February 1940. (48542), col G, p. 6.
  86. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  87. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  88. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  89. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  90. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  91. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  92. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  93. "Three Steamers Sunk" The Times (London). Monday, 19 February 1940. (48543), col F, p. 2.
  94. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  95. "British Ship Sunk In Collision" The Times (London). Monday, 19 February 1940. (48543), col A, p. 8.
  96. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  97. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  98. 98.0 98.1 "Two Neutral Ships Sunk" The Times (London). Monday, 19 February 1940. (48543), col B, p. 5.
  99. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  100. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  101. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  102. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  103. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  104. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  105. 105.0 105.1 "22 Lives Lost In Spanish Ship" The Times (London). Tuesday, 20 February 1940. (48544), col D, p. 7.
  106. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  107. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  108. 108.0 108.1 108.2 108.3 108.4 108.5 108.6 Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  109. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  110. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  111. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  112. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  113. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  114. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  115. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  116. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  117. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  118. "Naval Trawler Sunk By Aircraft" The Times (London). Friday, 23 February 1940. (48547), col D, p. 8.
  119. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  120. "Ship Attacked By Bombers" The Times (London). Wednesday, 21 February 1940. (48545), col F, p. 8.
  121. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  122. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  123. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  124. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  125. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  126. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  127. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  128. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  129. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  130. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  131. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  132. 132.0 132.1 "Trapped In Sinking Steamer" The Times (London). Wednesday, 28 February 1940. (48551), col C, p. 8.
  133. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  134. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  135. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  136. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  137. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  138. "Oil Tanker Sunk In North Sea" The Times (London). Thursday, 28 March 1940. (48575), col B, p. 8.
  139. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  140. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  141. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  142. "Blockade-runner Goes Aground" The Times (London). Tuesday, 27 February 1940. (48550), col B, p. 7.
  143. 143.0 143.1 "French Ship Lost In North Sea" The Times (London). Friday, 1 March 1940. (48553), col F, p. 5.
  144. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  145. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  146. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  147. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  148. "Belfast Motor-liner Aground" The Times (London). Thursday, 29 February 1940. (48552), col F, p. 8.
  149. "Ulster Queen Refloated" The Times (London). Thursday, 28 March 1940. (48575), col C, p. 5.
  150. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  151. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  152. Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
Ship events in 1940
Ship launches: 1935 1936 1937 1938 1939 1940 1941 1942 1943 1944 1945
Ship commissionings: 1935 1936 1937 1938 1939 1940 1941 1942 1943 1944 1945
Ship decommissionings: 1935 1936 1937 1938 1939 1940 1941 1942 1943 1944 1945
Shipwrecks: 1935 1936 1937 1938 1939 1940 1941 1942 1943 1944 1945