Scottish Sunday

After 60 years, final resting place of ‘Hitler’s lost fleet’ is discovered

Turkish engineer pieces together 'one of the most fascinating stories of the second world war'

The Discovery

Turkish marine engineer Selcuk Kolay has made an extraordinary discovery more than 60 years after "Hitler's lost fleet" disappeared overnight in 1944. Using sonar technology and after interviewing surviving German officers, including a former U-boat commander, Kolay has successfully located the three notorious U-boats at the bottom of the Black Sea.

The Story

The three submarines, U-19, U-20, and U-23, were part of the 30th flotilla which caused havoc in British waters during World War II. In 1941, the Germans decided to move the submarines to the Romanian seaport of Constanta to disrupt Russian shipping in the Black Sea. For three years, they were responsible for sinking 45,000 tonnes of Soviet cargo. However, in 1944, when Romania joined the Allies, their reign of terror came to an end. Stuck in the Black Sea with no safe land base, the commanders of the submarines were ordered to scuttle the boats and row ashore. The exact location of the submarines remained a mystery until Kolay's recent discovery.

The Findings

Kolay and his team have successfully completed dives around the wreck of U-20, which is incredibly well-preserved. They plan to explore the remains of U-19 in the near future, and bad weather has postponed a dive to U-23 until spring. The successful discovery of the first world war U-boat U-12 last month off Eyemouth, Berwickshire, by a local dive team, has shown that there are still more wartime wrecks to be found.

The Significance

The discovery of "Hitler's lost fleet" is not only a remarkable achievement but also a significant piece of history. It sheds new light on the strategies employed during World War II and the lengths to which the Germans went to disrupt Allied shipping. The existence of these U-boats in the Black Sea challenges the narrative of their disappearance and adds a new chapter to the history of naval warfare.

Hotels: Perfect for History Enthusiasts

Experiencing History Firsthand

If you're a history enthusiast and fascinated by World War II, visiting the Black Sea region where "Hitler's lost fleet" was discovered is an ideal opportunity to immerse yourself in the past and witness history firsthand. There are several hotels in the area that can provide a comfortable stay while you explore the rich historical sites.

Accommodation Options

When planning your visit, consider staying at one of the hotels near Zonguldak, the Turkish city located just three miles from the pinpointed location of U-19. These hotels offer convenient access to the area and its historical significance. Additionally, there are hotels available in Constanta, the Romanian seaport where the U-boats were transported across Europe. By staying in Constanta, you can explore the city's history and understand the context of the submarines' presence in the Black Sea.

Make a Reservation

To make your trip smooth and enjoyable, it is recommended to book your hotel in advance. Many hotels offer online reservation services, allowing you to secure your accommodation with ease. Prepare to be captivated by the incredible history of "Hitler's lost fleet" and indulge in a memorable stay in the Black Sea region.