History

The remains known today as the Inner Section formed part of HMS Erin, a 394-ton Royal Navy anti-submarine trawler that served during the Second World War.
In February 1942, while moored alongside the South Mole, the vessel was deliberately sabotaged and subsequently sank. Following the incident, much of the wreck was dismantled and removed to clear the berth, with surviving sections later deposited at separate locations on the seabed. These are now commonly referred to as the Inner and Outer sections.

The wreck has been the subject of detailed archaeological investigation and has been recorded as part of the Nautical Archaeology Society's "Adopt a Wreck" programme. Extensive survey work and historical research have significantly improved our understanding of the vessel and its wartime history.

Site Description

The Inner Section comprises the lower portion of the vessel's bow. It rests upright on a sloping seabed at depths ranging from approximately 16 to 24 metres, with the bow positioned at the deepest point.

The surviving structure rises to around 2 metres above the seabed. Towards the aft end is a relatively flat deck containing access openings through which tanks and stacks of firebricks can still be seen. Forward of this area, the hull is largely open, exposing transverse beams together with the base of a former gun mounting.

Years beneath the sea have transformed the wreck into an artificial reef. The metalwork is now heavily colonised by colourful gorgonian sea fans and other marine growth, providing shelter for numerous crustaceans, small fish and other marine species.

Further Reading

Readers wishing to learn more about HMS Erin and Gibraltar's underwater heritage are encouraged to consult Underwater Gibraltar: A Guide to the Rock’s Submerged Sites, by Phil Smith and Darren Fa, which explores the history and archaeological investigation of many of Gibraltar's submerged sites in considerably greater detail. Copies are available from the Gibraltar National Museum and selected booksellers.

HMS Erin bow piece.

HMS Erin bow piece.