Here is a very interesting account provided to us by one of our board members, Meredith Hoppe. Recently, while on a trip to Europe, Meredith had a chance to visit another very famous Fleet: the SS Nomadic and the most ill-fated of the White Star Line, the RMS Titanic. The Titanic was built in Belfast and therefore, a fitting home for a Titanic Museum. In addition to the museum is the refurbished SS Nomadic which was a tender of the White Star Line built to transfer passengers and mail to the Titanic. She is the last remaining vessel of the White Star Line in existence today.
The museum boasts over 10 interactive galleries. Ticket purchasers are taken through the story of Belfast’s linen trade which played a key role in the economic and social development of Belfast. The linen trade eventually transformed the city into the linen capital of the world and one of the largest cities in Ireland. Another key industry was shipbuilding. It was here, in Belfast, where the Titanic was built and launched, sailing to her appointment with destiny. The aftermath of the sinking and race to find Titanic where she ultimately was laid to rest are also covered. The ticket also allows entry to the SS Nomadic, where you can walk her decks and learn what her guests saw and experienced on the journey to their unsuspecting fate.
The museum lives up to its name: it is quite an experience – as you navigate multiple floors to see artifacts, reenactments, soundscapes, stunning visuals and even an amusement park style ride that takes you back in time to navigate the shipyard as the massive ship is constructed.
We’d like to share some photos from Meredith’s visit to give you a taste of what the Titanic Experience offers. She was particularly keeping an eye out for artifacts as she knew our membership is always interested in underwater treasures, and the Titanic Experience did not disappoint in that department!
If you are interested in learning more about the SS Nomadic and the Titanic, the museum’s website is a trove of historical information and educational resources. Be sure to check it out, and if you happen to be traveling to Northern Ireland anytime soon, it’s a must-see attraction!
