THE Breda is a 4387nt steel steamship built by the New Waterway Shipbuilding Co in 1921.
The SS Breda was requisitioned for war duties during the early days of World War Two and was enroute for India but first steamed north towards the Lynn of Lorn to join a convoy assembled at Southend.

She was carrying valuable cargo including three Hawker Bi-planes, 30 De Havilland Tiger Moths, military vehicles, building materials and assorted general cargo including 10 horses belonging to the Aga Khan.
As the Breda awaited transit in Oban Bay and the departure of the convoy to the Atlantic, a German Heinkel bomber dropped a stick of bombs which straddled the ship before her crew could even man the anti-aircraft guns.

Although there wasn't a direct-hit, the explosions on either side produced a shock wave which damaged the water intake pipes causing the Breda to start shipping water quickly.
As the engines and electrics were cut Captain Fooy put 12 passengers ashore then tried to save the ship by running her aground in Ardnamurknish Bay, pulled by an Admiralty tug.

The Breda was heavily salvaged during the 60s and 70s but still remains one of the most popular wrecks for divers.
She sits upright on a gently sloping beach at 24 to around 30 metres and her five cargo holds are still brimming with artefacts.

Diving on the Breda is easy and as safe as any wreck could be with the bay sheltered from the worst of the weather, isn't subject to strong tides and the only problem is overcrowding because of its popularity.

Please click here to return to the wrecks directory page