Today in History: 100 years later, possible reason for ship’s disappearance is uncovered
A number of theories have developed as to what might have caused the disappearance of the SS Waratah.
The SS Waratah was a luxury steamer that disappeared on its way from Cape Town to Durban, South Africa, on 26 July, 1909.
The ship was built in Scotland and was meant to serve as a passenger and cargo liner to Australia.
After her second trip to Australia, the SS Waratah set sail for Durban, and arrived in this harbour on 1 July, 1909.
With 211 passengers and crew on board, she left for Cape Town and was expected to reach her destination by 29 July.
However, the SS Waratah did not reach her destination, and no trace of the wreckage was found.
A number of wrecks similar in shape to the outline of the steamer were spotted along the cost of South Africa between 1925 and 1999, but none of them proved to be the Waratah.
A number of theories have developed as to what might have caused the disappearance of the SS Waratah. The most popular theory, publicised on 15 July, 2009, was supported by research on sonar imaging, and revealed that a freak wave may have capsized the boat, causing her rudder to malfunction.
Although maintained as the most likely explanation for the disappearance of the SS Waratah, the mystery of this luxury steamer’s disappearance remains unsolved.
Information sourced from: South African History Online.
