Vasa: The Ghost Ship

Original version

BBC Four

BBC 4

BBC Four HD

Charlotte Nottegham

Documentaries

Factual: History

BBC Four - Vasa: The Ghost Ship

The Vasa, the majestic Swedish galleon, sank just after setting off on her maiden voyage.

Film following the work of archaeologists, divers and historians as they make new discoveries about a remarkably well-preserved 17th-century galleon raised from the Baltic in 1961.

The Vasa, one of the most majestic galleons ever to put to sea, sank 18 minutes after leaving Stockholm harbour on her maiden voyage in 1628.  

The loss of the Vasa was a major setback for Sweden’s ambitions to become a power in the Baltic during a turbulent period of European history. Three centuries later, in 1961, the wreck of the Vasa was raised.  Remarkably well-preserved by the mud and water in the Baltic Sea, she is a 17th-century time machine.  

Following the work of archaeologists, divers and historians, Vasa: The Ghost Ship plunges into Stockholm harbour to make new discoveries and reveal more about the lives of those who built, sailed and died on one of the most powerfully armed warships of her time.

Knowledge, arts, music and culture from the UK and the world.

BBC Four reflects arts, music and culture with an ambitious range of intellectually and culturally enriching programmes, taking an expert and in-depth approach to its subjects.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

Vasa: The Ghost Ship

Contributors

Genres

Formats

BBC Four

About BBC Four