Quick facts
| Thrill | 3 of 5: |
|---|---|
| Can you do it too? | 3 of 5: |
| Family-friendly | – |
| Guy's verdict | – |
Guy hasn't said yet- Location: Umm Al Quwain
Divers Down UAE Map: Diving the MV Dara, the forgotten shipwreck off Umm Al Quwain Enquire / book More episodes Related: mv dara wreck dive
Built in Glasgow in 1948, the 120-metre MV Dara carried passengers and mail between the Indian subcontinent and the Gulf for the British India Steam Navigation Company. In April 1961, during a violent storm, a bomb tore through two decks. 238 people died, the worst peacetime loss of a British ship since the Titanic.
Paris rebuilds the story from naval inquiry reports and from Ian Tew, a 17-year-old cadet on board. The inquiry suspected rebels from Oman's Dhofar region but never proved it.
The wreck lies in about 30 metres of water off Umm Al Quwain. With Divers Down, Paris plans around strong currents, then descends onto the hull.
Do it yourself
Read our MV Dara wreck dive guide.
Paris's verdict
Placeholder: Paris will add his own first-person verdict here. We do not write it for him.
Related
FAQ
How deep is the MV Dara?
About 30 metres, off Umm Al Quwain.
When did the Dara sink?
April 1961, with 238 lives lost.
Sources
Facts checked October 2026. Opening times, age limits and seasons change, so confirm with the operator before you go.
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