World War IIDS Ariadne
The Norwegian DS Ariadne was, under orders from the Norwegian authorities, traveling with the coastal express vessel Prins Olav from Finnmark. Initially, they set course for Tórshavn in the Faroe Islands, and then to the United Kingdom. The vessel had been converted into a hospital ship during the Norwegian campaign and was painted in accordance with international regulations.
On 8 June 1940, Ariadne departed Tromsø with 54 people on board. On 9 June 1940, the ship, along with Prins Olav, was attacked by German aircraft. Ariadne was hit and caught fire. Two of the lifeboats were severely damaged, and two others were launched. Ten people struggled to survive in the sea under gunfire from the German aircraft. The survivors were rescued by the British destroyer Arrow and brought to Scapa Flow. Eight people lost their lives in the sinking, including five crew members.
About DS Ariadne
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Nationality
Norway
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Built
1930
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Wrecked
09.06.1940
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Carrier
Det Bergenske Dampskipsselskap, Bergen
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Tonnage
2000 dvt
