Into The Blue

The Tragic Fate of the HMS Hood—Revealed at Last

Into the Blue by historian and diver Alexander McKee, published by Grafton Books in 1983, is a riveting account of one of the most haunting naval mysteries of the 20th century—the sinking of HMS Hood. With a compelling blend of historical research, first-hand accounts, and underwater exploration, McKee reconstructs the dramatic final moments of Britain’s most famous battlecruiser.

In May 1941, during a fierce battle with the German battleship Bismarck, HMS Hood was destroyed in a catastrophic explosion, taking 1,415 lives with her. Only three men survived. The event stunned the world and left behind unanswered questions—until McKee took on the mission to uncover the truth.

Drawing on official records, survivor testimonies, and his own diving expeditions to the wreck site, McKee pieces together what really happened that fateful day. His dedication to preserving naval history and solving long-standing wartime enigmas makes Into the Blue a compelling read for history enthusiasts and naval buffs alike.

This is not just the story of a ship, but a tribute to the men who served aboard her and a deep dive—literally and figuratively—into one of WWII’s most enduring maritime tragedies.