Visiting the Catalina crash on Vatersay was an experience I’ll never forget. The Outer Hebrides islands are known for their wild beauty, and Vatersay, the westernmost inhabited island, is no exception. But tucked away on a hillside near the island’s only road lies a sobering reminder of the perils of wartime aviation.
The Fate of the Catalina Plane
The Catalina plane, a long-range patrol aircraft, was one of the most versatile of its time. Built in the 1930s and 1940s, these flying boats were known for their ability to take off and land on water, making them invaluable for maritime reconnaissance missions.
On May 12, 1944, an RAF Catalina took off from Oban on a training exercise. The plan was to fly over Barra Head, but somehow, the crew lost their bearings. Flying at low altitude, the aircraft slammed into the slopes of Heishavel Beag, a rugged hill on Vatersay island. Of the nine crew members onboard, three lost their lives, while six survived with injuries and the harrowing memory of that night.
Discovering the Wreck
After the RAF crash, recovery teams attempted to remove the aircraft wreckage, but their efforts didn’t get far. Today, pieces of the Catalina plane remain scattered across the hillside, some partially buried in the rugged landscape. Walking among the remnants, I found it incredible how these twisted metal fragments had been left untouched for nearly 80 years. It’s a true time capsule of history.
One of the quirkiest things about this site is that it remains completely open—no fences, no barriers, no warning signs. In a world where historical sites are often sanitized and restricted, this felt raw and real. The Outer Hebrides of Scotland have a strong sense of community, where people trust each other, and that trust extends even to visitors respecting the site.
Honoring the Fallen
A black stone memorial marks the crash site, listing the names of Flight Sergeant David Clyne, Sergeant Fred Basset, and Sergeant Patrick Hines—the three crew members who perished in the accident. I was surprised to learn that David Clyne had been an international footballer before the war, playing for Queens Park F.C. and even earning two caps for Scotland at the amateur level. Football and aviation aren’t often connected, but here on Vatersay, history finds unusual ways to intertwine.
A Journey Through Time
While standing near the Catalina wreckage, the weather shifted dramatically—a common feature of the Outer Hebrides Scotland. One minute, the sun illuminated the turquoise waters of the nearby beaches, and the next, a thick mist rolled in, reducing visibility to mere meters. It made me think about how difficult it must have been for WWII pilots navigating these unpredictable skies, especially without modern technology.
My visit to Barra island added another layer to my appreciation of these aviators. I flew in on one of the famous Barra beach landing flights, where the plane lands directly on the sand. Even with today’s instruments, it was a nerve-wracking experience. I couldn’t imagine doing it in a WWII-era flying boat with limited navigation tools.
Remembering the Legacy
With the 80th anniversary of the Catalina crash on Vatersay approaching, more people are taking an interest in this forgotten wartime tragedy. Recently, a motion in the UK Parliament (Early Day Motion 755) highlighted the Catalina flying boat’s role in WWII, particularly in protecting merchant ships from U-boats.
For history enthusiasts, aviation buffs, or those simply drawn to the eerie beauty of wartime relics, the Catalina crash site is an unforgettable place. If you ever find yourself on a Outer Hebrides vacation, take the detour to Vatersay island. It’s not just a walk through history—it’s a moment of reflection on the lives, the sacrifices, and the quirks that history sometimes leaves behind.
FAQ:
1. What happened during the Catalina crash on Vatersay?
On May 12, 1944, an RAF Catalina flying boat crashed into Heishavel Beag on Vatersay island due to navigational errors. Of the nine crew members onboard, three tragically lost their lives, while six survived.
2. Where is the Catalina crash site located?
The Catalina plane crash site is on Vatersay island, part of the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. It lies just below the island’s main road, easily accessible to visitors who want to see this haunting WWII relic.
3. Can visitors explore the Catalina wreckage?
Yes! Unlike many historical crash sites, the remains of the Catalina plane are freely accessible. There are no barriers, allowing visitors to explore and reflect on this WWII tragedy in the stunning Outer Hebrides islands.
4. Who was Flight Sergeant David Clyne?
Flight Sergeant David Clyne, the pilot of the Catalina plane ww2, was an accomplished footballer before the war. He played for Queens Park F.C. and was twice capped for Scotland at the amateur level.
5. What makes Vatersay island unique?
Vatersay, the westernmost inhabited island of the Outer Hebrides Scotland, offers pristine beaches, rugged landscapes, and rich history. The Catalina crash site adds a compelling wartime story to its natural beauty, attracting history buffs and travelers alike.
6. Why were Catalina flying boats important in WWII?
Catalina flying boats were crucial for maritime reconnaissance, hunting U-boats, and long-range patrols. The RAF crash on Vatersay reminds us of their role in protecting Allied shipping routes during the war.
7. How can I reach Vatersay and the Catalina wreck?
You can reach Vatersay island by road from Barra, crossing the causeway. Flights land on Barra beach, one of the world’s only tidal airports, making the journey as unique as the destination itself
