The Secret History of the Estonia. podcast starts with a warning, as some listeners may find the topic distressing. It concerns the shipwreck of a ferry in 1994 that cost 852 lives. Investigative journalist Stephen Davis leads this eight-episode series. Why did the authorities try to conceal the wreckage? What hides in the depths of the Baltic Sea that they don’t want people to find? Suspicion surrounds this story. As Stephen investigates, tales of smugglers and Cold War secrets come to the surface.

The MS Estonia left the Port of Tallinn on September 27, 1994. It’s the biggest port in Estonia, accounting for large volumes of cargo and passenger traffic. The ferry was on its way as part of a routine Baltic crossing to its destination in Stockholm. The first podcast episode starts during the storm that sank the ship. There are sounds of Mayday calls, and listeners can hear accounts from survivors. One had no choice but to jump. Another noticed a lack of life jackets and rafts as water flooded the ship. News reports talk of waves up to 30 feet high. The boat took less than an hour to sink.

As survivors share their horrific experiences, the podcast explores the aftermath. Family members of some of the victims talk about their search for answers. Stephen reveals how a secret meeting with an MI6 officer started his investigation. He talks about the fall of the Soviet Union and how it might relate to what happened in 1994. Then, Stephen shares significant evidence discovered by a journalist in 2020. How does it impact the investigation? What happened as a result?

The Secret History of the Estonia. podcast explores the secrets behind this tragedy. In each episode, Stephen shares new insights and evidence that provide possible answers. It’s like a true crime podcast steeped in grief, mystery, and intrigue. The full series is available, with update episodes arriving periodically.