MV Princess Victoria Disaster Remembered in Cross-Channel Commemorations

The 73rd anniversary of the MV Princess Victoria disaster will be marked with a memorial lecture in Larne and commemorations in Larne and Stranraer. Events are open to the public and honour the 138 lives lost on 31 January 1953.

A Tragedy That Shook the North Channel

The MV Princess Victoria disaster remains Northern Ireland’s worst maritime tragedy. On 31 January 1953, the ferry was lost in the North Channel during her regular crossing from Stranraer to Larne.
A total of 138 passengers and crew perished, leaving a lasting impact on families and communities on both sides of the channel.

Memorial Lecture in Larne

Organised by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, the Princess Victoria Memorial Lecture will take place at Larne Museum on Friday 30 January at 7pm.

Lecture Theme

The lecture will explore “The Wartime Generation of the Princess Victoria”, reflecting on the Second World War service given by many of those on board.

Guest Speaker

• Mrs Julia McDonald, Stranraer and District Local History Trust

Mrs McDonald will also represent the Stranraer community by laying a wreath at the Larne memorial the following morning.

Anniversary Commemorations in Larne and Stranraer

On Saturday 31 January, commemorations will take place on both sides of the channel.

Larne

• 11am service at the Princess Victoria Memorial, Chaine Memorial Road
• Wreaths laid in memory of those lost

Stranraer

• A parallel ceremony at the Princess Victoria Memorial in Agnew Park

Families who lost loved ones in the disaster are expected to attend both ceremonies.

Open to the Public

Both the memorial lecture and commemorative services are open to the public.
Anyone wishing to attend can register their interest by emailing:

Members.Services@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Honouring a Shared Maritime History

The MV Princess Victoria disaster continues to unite communities across the Irish Sea. These commemorations offer an important opportunity to remember the lives lost, reflect on shared history, and ensure that the tragedy is never forgotten.