Danish east indiaman · lost 1738 · Shetland, United Kingdom
The loss of the Wendela had significant financial implications for the Danish East India Company, which was already struggling in its early years. The Wendela, a Danish East Indiaman, was carrying a valuable cargo, including silver bars and coins, from Copenhagen to Tranquebar in 1737 when she disappeared.
Her loss was first indicated by debris and bodies found along the coast of Unst, and she was confirmed wrecked at East Fetlar. The wreck site, scattered among rocks, contained remnants of her cargo, including coins and metal. Despite salvage efforts, much of her treasure remained unrecovered. In 1971, a modern investigation found debris and a few silver coins, but the site remains largely unexplored.
The Wendela's remains are scattered, and the exact amount of treasure still on the seabed is unknown.
4 of 5 facts above are cited in Sources below.
Lost January 13th, 1738.
A reference and a starting point, not a dive plan. Plan any dive with a local professional who knows the site and the conditions on the day.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Water temp | 8.5° | 7.8° | 7.5° | 7.9° | 8.9° | 10.6° | 12.4° | 12.9° | 12.3° | 11.4° | 10.4° | 9.3° |
| Visibility | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
A further 3 fields were derived from the wreck’s recorded position rather than taken from a source.
WENDELA is a danish east indiaman wreck located off Shetland, United Kingdom at a depth of 8 metres. The wreck is diveable.
WENDELA lies at 5.5 to 8 metres depth, North Sea, Shetland.
As reported, diving the WENDELA is rated beginner and is suitable for newly certified Open Water divers. Minimum certification: Confirm with a local operator. A reference and a starting point, not a dive plan. Plan any dive with a local professional who knows the site and the conditions on the day.
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