Titanic Voyage in Real Time Tweets via @TitanicRealTime
#Carpathia We have set course for New York with the lost liner’s survivors – we estimate around 700.
#Carpathia The captain has not been found. The officers say the last they saw of him was entering the bridge shortly before she went under.
#Officer It barely seems real, so many lost…
#Carpathia We await the arrival of the other vessels but it is just too late. No one could have survived the ice cold water for this long
#crew Those who could have been saved have been saved – the rest haven’t survived the bitter cold water.
#Carpathia Twenty boats have now been rescued and passengers on board, we are tending to them as best we can…
#Carpathia More boats continue to be brought on board, although some are now being set adrift due to space restrictions.
#Carpathia Message received from the ship Birma, now only 30 miles off our position.
#Carpathia The second boat is now on board. The true gravity of what has happened hasn’t hit home yet, but give them time…
#firstclass Thank God! We are saved at last; it seemed like an eternity…
#Carpathia We begin the process of bringing the lifeboats on board. Those in the life rafts are alive, but only just. It is bitterly cold.
#Carpathia This is a terrible scene – bodies litter the ocean surface, others cling to drift while those on lifeboats call for help.
#Carpathia We have reached Titanic’s location but the ship is gone. How could this have happened?
#Officer Success! I think we have been spotted!
#Carpathia Unless my eyes deceive me, I can spot a single green light floating in the distance. It’s dim, but definitely there…
#Carpathia Calling Titanic with zero response, we can only hope their wireless is damaged and nothing worse has happened.
#Caronia We have picked up a message from a ship saying they are firing rockets. No communication as to who however.
#officer Burning green pyrotechnic lights in my lifeboat. My hands are so cold I can barely hold the flame. Someone must see us…
#firstclass The ocean is awash with screaming people and bodies – it is an unimaginable sight.
#firstclass Those poor souls floating in the ice cold water, I want to pull them into the boat but others resist. Why?
#officer Turn back, turn back, we must search for survivors!
#officer No one knows what to say or do. Some sit quietly, others weep, some are inconsolable. I can barely believe it…
#BoatNo1 She is gone…The unsinkable ship….Lost in the depths….All around check their watches 2.20a.m. – exactly.
#BoatNo1 The stern has pitched straight up, dear Lord it sounds like thunder! All the boats are quiet, and all we can see are people falling
#crew Here we go…the ship took a huge plunge and righted herself again. Everyone is panicking, what do I do??
#BoatNo1 Good God, the stern came well out of the water then and the ship is pitching – Look at those poor people…
#BoatNo1 She has split in two abaft the expansion plate! The stern has righted itself but the bow is lost, sinking quickly…
#BoatNo1 All the lights have now dimmed, pure darkness. Only screams can be heard…
#officer The ship took an enormous dive then, something must have buckled. The water is now up to the crow’s nest and into the forebridge.
#crew Did you hear that? An enormous crash as if the iron is parting from the ship. I must get on deck as soon as possible!
#captain I retire to the bridge. She cannot be saved, but I will go down with my ship. I have told the crew – Be British.
#bandmaster Gentlemen, the end I fear is fast approaching, what to play next… Nearer My God To Thee I think.
#quartermaster Fortunate enough to be on boat C as boat D is also launched. The well deck is completely submerged. I hope they got out…
#crew Good God, people are jumping from the ship into the sea. They will all perish in the ice cold water…
#crew Collapsible boat C has been launched with the quartermaster in charge. I fear I will never be able to leave this ship…
#captain I have told all those in the wireless cabin to leave and look out for themselves. There is nothing more they can do.
#officer Women and children in boats cannot last much longer. What else can be done?
#Olympic We are lighting up all possible boilers to make haste to Titanic’s location, please say we will make it there in time…
#engineering The engine room is now beyond saving, it is severely flooded with more water coming in by the minute. We need to save ourselves
#officer The ship is now listing noticeably to port – lifeboat 10 has only a 2.5ft gap between the side of the rail on the Boat Deck!
#crew Boat No. 14 overwhelmed by a sudden rush of gentlemen trying to board the lifeboat. A warning gunshot has been fired!
#thirdclass Why won’t they let my wife and son on board a lifeboat? They have as much right as those in first class!
#officer Major panic is beginning to set in and guns being pulled out by officers to control the crowds. Women and children first!
#captain All the boats are being lowered but there simply aren’t enough. No one planned for this circumstance…
#crew Another boat launched, No. 14. Numbers 13 and 15 are also preparing to be lowered with people scrambling to get aboard…
#officer We are going down fast at the head, the captain’s predictions may not turn out to be accurate. God help us all.
#engineering All that could have been done has been done…
#crew Boat No. 16 has launched with the Master-at-Arms in charge. The ship is starting to pitch violently and water levels are rising.
#officer This is not looking good, the water level is up to the second row of ports just under Titanic’s name at the bow…
#Olympic Finally a message from Titanic, they have struck an iceberg and require assistance. Our position is 505 miles away…
#quartermaster Boat No. 6 has been launched, and I am in charge of it. I feel relief but also pity for those who will not be as lucky…
#thirdclass Did you see that? That woman just fell from right up there! They saved her though, pulled her back in on deck.
#engineering We have finally received some portable suction pipes, but I feel it is too little too late. Four brave men are in boiler room 4
#crew Boat No. 1 now safely launched. Things are starting to get very heated amongst passengers; it is only a matter of time…
#Olympic We can now clearly hear their distress call but we need a position, currently trying to answer but with no response.
#Ypiranga We hear Titanic’s SOS-CQD and her position. We are on our way to assist.
#officer Boat No. 8 launched on the port side forward. There is no way we will be able to fit all these people on the boats…
#crew Boat No. 3 has now been launched with chaos still overwhelming on deck. The panic is becoming more apparent.
#Olympic We are trying to contact Titanic to confirm – we need to know their position and get there quickly if reports are true.
#Carpathia We have called Titanic to confirm both positions – we must come to their aid.
#Olympic I think we intercepted Titanic’s communications, it says they have struck an iceberg and are sinking. That can’t be right…
#firstclass No sir, I will not put on a lifejacket, we are dressed in our best and prepared to go down like gentlemen!
#steward The water on E Deck is up to the second funnel casing by the main first class stairway port and starboard sides. It’s unstoppable.
#bandmaster Land of Hope and Glory next I think.
#officer There is water flowing down the stairs from E Deck to F Deck, there can be no saving her…
#firstclass My darling, the band are still playing, there is plenty of time for me to get on another lifeboat.
#firstclass On to the lifeboat my dear, don’t worry there will be one for me later. Come along now, don’t get upset.
#crew Boat No. 5 is launched but it is chaos on deck. Everyone is pushing and shoving to get their children or themselves on a boat.
#captain Both the Mount Temple and Frankfurt have heard our calls. I have instructed the crew to find out Frankfurt’s position.
#officer Captain Smith will not leave deck – he insists on overseeing the loading and lowering of the boats.
#firstclass I say, watch it! A fellow with a cello just pushed passed in a real hurry.
#first class I don’t see why I should get on that lifeboat, it is much safer on the ship surely.
#bandmaster We are needed on deck, fetch your lifejacket and report back to the port-forward first class entrance.
#crew The first lifeboat has been launched, No. 7, starboard side forward. We have a crew member on board and in charge.
#Carpathia Titanic has sent a distress signal, they have struck an iceberg and require immediate assistance!
#Caronia Distress call received from the Titanic. Why would she require assistance? She is unsinkable.
#Ypiranga We have received a distress call from Titanic, she requires immediate assistance!
#crew I can’t make it out but I may have seen a light off Titanic’s port bow. I hope to goodness I have, we may then have a chance.
#officer First CQD transmitted with distress coordinates sent – we wait to see who responds…
#captain 1 and a half hours is nowhere near long enough, how can we save everyone?
#crew Captain has told us to signal for assistance and report our current position, please God let someone hear this….
#captain The decision has been made; boats are to be loaded with women and children first. No man is an exception to this rule!
#firstclass This is tiresome, but I suppose one has to show willing. Come along darling, out on deck, as they say.
#bandmaster Gentlemen, let us move up to the foyer, I believe that is where we are needed most.
#ThomasAndrews I cannot believe this. The ship cannot be saved, she only has 1 to 1.5 hours at most before she goes under…
#passenger Everyone is being ordered up immediately for boarding onto the lifeboats. They will never take all the passengers on board!
#captain I have told the two Marconi operators that they may need to send a CQD – but not to do so until I give the order.
#firstclass The band has started to play in the lounge, at this late hour!
#officer 13 men have been ordered up to place 4 loaves of bread in each lifeboat, who knows how long it will be until we are found?
#crew How can this be happening? This ship is unsinkable!
#officer The captain has returned to give the order. All lifeboats to be swung out and passengers brought on deck with lifebelts on.
#bandmaster Just going down to give them a tune, cheer them up a bit.
#passenger All this water…it is only within a few feet of reaching the E Deck staircase. How can this be?
#thirdclass Water is beginning to build up, this is not looking good! Where is my wife God damn it?
#captain How can holds 1, 2 & 3 be gone already? This ship is supposed to be unsinkable and those holds watertight!
#crew The chunks of ice in the well deck are enormous! Someone needs to investigate the damage under the forecastle head as well.
#officer Now inspecting the line of boats being readied on the port side, the men are working as fast as they can!
#officer Water is only 2ft off F Deck, although it seems to have slowed down. Nevertheless it is still rising and we have to abandon ship.
#engineering The lights have come back on in the stokeholds thank God. Boiler room 5 gauges are low, we need to get men to draw fires!
#officer Clocks did not need to go back this time due to the accident – more pressing issues at hand!
#captain The boatswain has given the order ‘All hands up and about the boats’, we need to muster the list for loading the passengers…
#passenger Why are the lifeboats being readied? This ship is unsinkable, this cannot be happening!
#bandmaster No questions, I have received an order to play, and play we will.
#bandmaster Come along chaps, get your stuff together, the captain has requested our presence in the first class lounge.
#fireman I was woken with a shout from someone and had to wade through water to get to the staircase. What on earth has happened?
#captain I have returned to deck and given the order to the boatswain, all lifeboats need to be ready for lowering immediately!
#crew Lights are out all through engineering, we have been tasked to get some lamps to the stokeholds immediately.
#captain Heading down the working staircase onto E Deck and the engine room, I need to see this damage for myself.
#engineering All the lights have suddenly gone off in the stokeholds – we need lamps for boiler room 5 quickly!
#crew Water coming in from starboard side as I look down from G Deck – someone needs to tell engineering.
#engineering The floods are now 8ft over the stokehold plates in boiler room 6. Someone just said they are at 7ft in hold 1 to. Good God….
#firstclass Everyone is rushing up on deck to see what the problem is…it is just me or are we tilting?
#crew Just reported to the captain that holds 1,2 and 3 are flooding quickly – he has gone below deck to meet up with an officer.
#crew An officer has come out of his quarters and quickly decides the collision was nothing serious, has he not heard up from engineering?
#officer All men have been ordered to return to stations – we need to assess the damage sustained.
#carpathia Sending out our final communication with Titanic – apparently some mishap has taken place but I assume it isn’t serious.
#captain Engines now set to full stop – we are clear from the iceberg. It has disappeared off the starboard quarter.
#captain Ismay has come up on deck on and is asking what happened – all we know is that we struck an iceberg. Damage yet unknown.
#firstclass What on earth was that?? It felt like the very earth was moving!
#crew The iceberg off the starboard quarter is disappearing into the night – we are still moving but not by much. Ice all over the well deck
#officer The ship is still moving around 4-6 knots through the water – it will take a while to stop this immense vessel.
#passenger Everyone is up and talking about what they heard. I am more worried about the enormous jolt, ice perhaps?
#engineering The forepeak tank is filling quickly; air is coming out and water coming in!
#officer Was that a ‘half speed ahead’ sign from the captain? I must have mis-understood amidst all this chaos…
#engineering Are the ship’s engines moving again? I can’t understand why that would be, we need to stop!
#crew The ship’s engines have stopped – I need to investigate. What on earth was that?
#engineering A terrible hissing sound coming from the forepeak tank – must be the air escaping. Engines now in full reverse!
#officer Captain has ordered us to close the WTDs – already closed. The ship is swinging hard to starboard!
#captain Just entered the bridge to see chaos. Mr Murdoch – what have we struck?
#captain *COLLISION WITH ICEBERG* Just been woken by a tremendous crashing sound, what is going on out there?
#quartermaster Entering the bridge to see a flurry of activity – the peak of an iceberg has just passed the bridge!
#engineering Coal is falling around everyone’s feet along with the water – I have no idea how to save us…
#engineering Water pouring in 2ft above stokehold plates in boiler room 6 and in the empty starboard side forward bunker of boiler room 5!
#officer 3 gongs coming from the lookout and a report on the telephone – Iceberg Right Ahead. Hard-a-starboard!!
#officer The ship’s head is swinging over to port as the tiller is now hard over to starboard – surely not….
#engineering Boiler room telegraph bell ringing, red light on the illuminated telegraph – FULL STOP!
#crew Keeping a sharp lookout but no icebergs at all on our current route. Visibility is becoming more of an issue however…
#firstclass The lights in the lounges have been extinguished and have been moved from the reading & writing room on A Deck. Time to turn in.
#passenger I was just climbing into my top berth to read when I noticed the ship vibrating much more than usual. Is this normal?
#officer More messages from Californian – they are still at full stop. Titanic would have no problem cutting through.
#officer Californian ATS has just informed us she has had to stop due to a field of pack ice – I’ve informed the lookouts.
#passenger I’ve noticed the engines running faster than at any other time during the trip – no doubt they want to beat Olympic’s record.
#engineering We’ve made good time in the last 2 hours. 45 nautical miles through water averaging 22.5 knots. No problems at all.
#officer Message received from Mesaba reporting further heavy pack ice and large icebergs; weather is clear to spot them however.
#crew We need to look after the fresh water – it is getting very cold and it may freeze if we are not careful.
#officer Another message from the Amerika regarding 2 large icebergs she has passed. Reports are coming in regularly now.
#officer Just rang up to the crow’s nest and told them to keep a sharp lookout for ice and growlers – too many reports to risk it.
#officer The captain has entered his quarters but given me instructions to let him know immediately if conditions become doubtful.
#captain Becoming a little bit more concerned about the conditions and visibility – just had a discussion with Lightoller.
#officer Just intercepted a message from the Californian to Antillian – 3 large bergs 5 miles south of them…
#officer A final signal exchanged between us and Carpathia– things are beginning to get dark and difficult to see clear ahead now.
#crew The temperature has dropped another 4 degrees since I went for dinner – I can see Lightoller taking a set of star sights.
#officer Just exchanged TRs with the Carpathia, one passenger message was also sent across.
#firstclass Sitting down to what I am sure will be a lovely dinner with friends. Everyone is dressed spectacularly.
#firstclass The sea is like a millpond, what a beautifully starlit night.
#engineering The double-ended boilers lit this morning have finally been put to use – this should help increase our speed.
#captain Calfornian ATS has messaged us about 5 large icebergs sighted 5 miles to their south. We should be well out of their path.
#firstclass Just been shown a worrying note by Mr Ismay, the Baltic has given us an ice warning. However I am sure everything is in hand.
#captain Course correction made in order to head towards the Nantucket Shoals light vessel.
#crew Just chalked up an rpm rate of 77 – this means we will be making about 22.3 knots through the water!
#officer Quickly responded to a note from the Baltic, made them aware of our fine weather since leaving and wished them well.
#captain I have the note back from Ismay, apparently he was discussing it with passengers…
#firstclass Mr Ismay has just shown us a note wishing Titanic a safe voyage from a passing vessel – he seems particularly pleased.
#officer All these ice reports need to be taken more seriously – the lookouts have been made aware of the danger
#captain We have received an uplifting message from steam Deutschland wishing us and Titanic all success. I have passed it to Ismay.
#captain Yet another report – this time from Athenai about passing icebergs and large quantities of field ice.
#captain More ice reports from other ships, the number and frequency is really starting to add up.
#officer Message received from Amerika – it passed two large icebergs that may run close to our course. We need to keep a watchful eye.
#crew Looks like a delicious luncheon for the first class passengers, the Titanic truly is a ship of luxury.
#thirdclass I just caught a glimpse of the first class lunch being prepared – a far cry from what we have!
#captain I have messaged the SS Noordam back thanking them for the ice report. Given the ship’s integrity I am not particularly concerned.
#officer Course altered to avoid reported ice on our current path – simply a precaution at this stage.
#engineering A much better average speed over the last 24 hours. I still feel there is much more to be squeezed out yet
#officer The third day’s run totals at 546 miles at an average of 22.06 knots. Revolutions held steady at 75-76 on reciprocating engines
#captain Received a message from SS Noordam, they report some moderate westerly winds and general fair weather ahead.
#firstclass Delighted that the captain will be conducting the Divine Service this morning in the first class saloon.
#captain I have thanked the ‘Caronia’ for the information and informed them of the variable weather we have had.
#firstclass A very enjoyable breakfast period has come to an end. The décor is exquisite and waiters most attentive.
#captain Message received from Caronia regarding possible bergs, growlers and field ice. Nothing to be concerned about.
#firstclass A glorious morning to enjoy another fantastic breakfast, full compliments to the chef.
#engineering Finally the order is given to light the 3 remaining double-ended boilers – now we will get a true measure of her speed.
#crew The 7th bell signifies the forenoon watch will be beginning soon, they will be taking breakfast in preparation.
#officer Ordered the ballast and fresh water tanks sounded in accordance with IMM rules. Need to ensure we run a tight operation.
#crew We have finally completed the repair of the wireless transmitter – 6 hours of solid work and a job well done.
#crew 8 bells ring out as morning watch begins, nothing to report as we switch stations with our crewmates.
#officer Wheelhouse clock now set back to 3:38, thus increasing the length of the middle watch by 22 minutes.
#crew 7 bells now ring – I am glad they continue to do so or I might nod off up here…
#officer All messages will now be logged in NY mean time in accordance with Marconi Company Practice, but the transmitter is still broken.
#crew 4 bells ring as I replace my crewmate in the lookout tower.
#crew The start of the 8 bells signifying the change of watch. I hope my replacement comes soon I could do with a solid night’s sleep.
#officer Clocks on the bridge set back to 23:37. The first watch has been extended by 23 minutes.
#crew Transmitter is going to take some time to fix, so much for a restful night’s sleep…
#crew The wireless transmitter has shorted and needs mending; I have been called out of bed to make repairs.
#captain Delightful lunch with Bruce Ismay. The first class reception room is an elegant way to enjoy a drink.
#firstclass I imagine they are discussing many important things; I even overheard them say we would beat Olympic and reach NY by Tuesday!
#firstclass Just sitting down for a spot of lunch and who should walk in but Bruce Ismay and Captain Smith himself!
#officer Now up to 22.2 knots through the water, this should help us make up some lost time!
#engineering Disappointing distance figures which we need to rectify. Now running at 75rpm to help increase our average speed.
#officer A deal of disappointment regarding our progress on this second day, we were hoping for a higher average speed.
#captain Second day’s run completed and posted at 519 miles. Our average speed was 20.91 knots.
#firstclass We can’t be nearly 3 days into the voyage! Time is passing far too quickly for my liking.
#officer More clock changes on the bridge as the length of the middle watch is extended by 25 minutes. All clocks on board back in sync.
#officer Clocks on the bridge set back to 23:36. The first watch has been extended by 24 minutes.
#engineering An additional boiler has been connected up in boiler room number 2. 21 double-ended boilers now online.
#captain I have thanked the La Touraine and informed them of our fine weather. No need to be concerned at this moment.
#officer The Paris has also spotted another ice-field and two potential icebergs on course and asked for our position.
#officer Received a wireless message from La Touraine warning us of a thick ice-field, shouldn’t be a problem according to the captain.
#passenger The crew have been incredibly attentive throughout the trip, I feel truly blessed to be part of this historic voyage.
#firstclass I can honestly say I haven’t noticed any discernible problems. Titanic is a marvel of modern engineering.
#captain Currently proceeding without incident on the Great Circle route, running at 72-3rpm on her reciprocating engines.
#officer The first full day’s run has been posted at 484 miles which works out at an average speed of 20.98 knots. Quite an achievement.
#passenger There is definitely more of a chill in the air today, but that is to be expected given the cooler waters we are approaching.
#firstclass First things first, breakfast at the Café Parisien!
#firstclass Woken up to yet another marvellous morning. The weather truly has been kind to us thus far.
#captain Ship now running at 72rpm on the reciprocating engines, now making 21.2 knots through the water.
#officer Order given to light an additional boiler in room No.2, I hope to break 21 knots.
#engineering Hot and gruelling work down here, hopefully we will be able to light another boiler soon and test her true speed.
#crew Clocks have once again been set back on the bridge, now to 3.30a.m. My watch has been extended by 30 minutes.
#officer Night watch now in place – nothing to report. A good chance to reflect on a momentous day.
#officer Clocks keeping bridge time now set back to 11.3p.m. This has extended the third watch by 29 minutes.
#thirdclass Even this far below deck the living quarters are still marvellous – I hope to be enjoying a drink through to the early hours!
#crew All quiet now as people begin to settle down for the night, I can’t speak for the lower decks though…
#captain Time to retire after an enjoyable meal among our more discerning passengers. Many things to do tomorrow however.
#thirdclass I don’t expect we are having quite as refined a meal as first class, but it suits our needs down to the ground!
#firstclass We are being treated to a truly marvellous meal with excellent company. I hope all our meals are this enjoyable.
#engineering Proving to be very hot and dirty work though – I look forward to being relieved by the next shift.
#engineering Incredibly pleased with her operation and everyone down here is doing a sterling job.
#firstclass Dressed in our finest evening wear we are making our way to the dining hall. We expect a spectacular menu.
#passenger Standing at the front of the ship all I can see ahead is a horizon of water. I look forward to seeing New York.
#captain Course altered about 3 miles off the Old Head of Kinsale, now headed true for Fastnet Light. No issues thus far.
#firstclass It feels as if we are floating over the water. Such a smooth sailing vessel – we truly are blessed to be part of this voyage.
#officer 20.7 knots through the water – she is cutting through the waves like a knife!
#engineering She has worked up to 70rpm on reciprocating engines with 20 out of 24 double-ended boilers connected up.
#officer The captain has given the order and we are underway. We can be thankful we have Captain Smith leading us.
#captain All Ahead Full! Let’s see what she is capable of.
#crew Just dropping off the pilot at Daunt’s Rock, then the journey across the Atlantic begins. So much anticipation…
#engineering Daunt’s Rock in another 2 miles and then we undertake her maiden transatlantic crossing. Can’t wait to see what she can do!
#officer Looking at the passengers walking the deck fills me with pride. They are clearly as enthralled as the rest of us.
#officer The captain has ordered to turn a quarter circle and to head for Daunt’s Rock light vessel to drop off the pilot.
#crew Passengers and mail all on board, we will soon start our preparations before we set off on the final leg…
TitanicVoyage #captain More thanks to the WSL steam tenders Ireland and America – we should weigh our starboard anchor in around 2 hours.
#Queenstown Here she is entering the harbour! You can see the door on the hull open on the E Deck. http://yfrog.com/2smsbij
#crew Now anchored 2 miles off Roche’s Point outside Queenstown harbour, more passengers and mail being taken on.
#Queenstown There she is! Approaching in the distance! She looks truly magnificent in the morning sunlight.
#thirdclass I think I can make out our final stop in the distance. It won’t be long until we make haste across the North Atlantic!
#firstclass First morning of waking up aboard Titanic. I wonder what I will discover and who I will meet today?
#captain Good news. Conditions have been kind to us overnight, we will make Queenstown harbour on schedule.
#officer Project arrival time at Queenstown is 11:30 – the captain will be pleased to hear we are making good time.
#passenger Barely slept last night. The beds were comfortable but the excitement is just too much!
#officer Night watch shift changeovers have been running like clockwork. Nice to see such a dedicated crew.
#crew Everything is clear and no problems to report – let’s hope every night is as incident free as this one.
#officer The clocks have been set back 25 minutes from GMT to Dublin Mean Time, hopefully we haven’t missed any out.
#officer The captain has retired to his quarters. He has left the ship in the capable hands of the night watch.
#thirdclass No rest for any of us tonight! Time to celebrate Titanic’s maiden voyage!
#firstclass Today has been enthralling but exhausting. Time to rest and make use of our luxurious quarters.
#engineering Still tempering the engines but we’ll soon be able to put her to the test. The vast open stretches of the Atlantic are to come.
#captain I look forward to getting this final stop out of the way so we can begin the real journey.
#firstclass The new arrivals from Cherbourg are clearly as overwhelmed as us with Titanic’s size.
#crew Only one more stop then we set across the Atlantic for New York. I wonder who will be waiting to greet us there.
#firstclass Titanic is not unlike four separate towns in one, with the fourth attending entirely to the needs of the other three.
#captain Thanks to the help of the WSL steam tenders Nomadic and Traffic we have departed for our overnight trip to Queenstown on time.
#crew Boarding is going quicker than expected, although we are getting some very useful help to get us back on time.
#crew The passengers are understandably keen to board, Titanic’s magnificence is plain for all to see.
#officer A 66-nautical-mile trip at about 20.2 knots – a very pleasing start.
#crew Due to the near mishap as we left we have arrived in Cherbourg an hour later than planned – just before sunset.
#passenger Looking down at those waiting to board you can feel their anticipation build!
#Cherbourg Look at her approach, she is a sight to behold. I cannot wait to board!
#captain Cherbourg now in sight, we will attempt to make a quick turnaround to make up for time lost.
#officer We will soon be arriving in Cherbourg. Hopefully we will be able to board the remaining passengers and leave before sunset.
#passenger Enjoying a drink with friends on deck. The weather is being kind to us on this first leg, I hope our luck continues.
#firstclass A spot of tea is called for. The only problem is deciding where to have it, there are so many choices!
#thirdclass A good chance to get to know those who we are sharing our quarters with – they seem a nice crowd.
#thirdclass I’ve been advised not to venture outside of the areas designated to our class, under no circumstances am I to go to first.
#officer The captain seems pleased and undeterred after the incident with New York. We plough on regardless – 3 hours to Cherbourg.
#photographer Here’s a picture of the radio room I was permitted to take shortly after we set sail earlier http://yfrog.com/04s8mgj
#captain No issues to report thus far, she is running smoothly and as expected. A good job all round.
#firstclass Such a privilege to be on her maiden voyage, I feel it will be a memorable experience
#thirdclass A good opportunity to explore our surroundings before we take on more passengers in Cherbourg.
#officer Looks as if we will miss the 17:30 arrival time in Cherbourg now, but no harm done. We will have to ensure a quick turnaround.
#passenger I hope that isn’t an omen of things to come, a near collision before we even hit open sea!
#captain Good God that was a close call. I think it was the steamship New York nearly colliding with us. This will cause delays…
#officer The steamer New York is taking a strange course but I am sure she will adjust as we make our way out of dock.
#firstclass There is so much to take in, the magnificent clock, the woodwork surrounding the staircase. No expense has been spared!
#passenger The sea of people is just immense. I wonder how many will welcome us to New York?
#Southampton Away she goes! What a sight!
#reporter Watching Titanic depart Ocean Dock berth 44 is truly a sight to behold, a magnificent moment for British shipbuilding.
#captain All checks have been completed and we are ready to go. Next stop – Cherbourg.
#photographer The last of the mooring lines are being released! http://yfrog.com/mjj1grj
#firstclass The doors have been sealed and all the crew appear to be at their stations – it can’t be long now.
#officer Final checks are being made. I will report to the captain when complete and give the all clear to leave port.
#crew Readying ourselves for launch in 30 minutes, the excitement of the rest of the crew and the passengers is contagious…
#passenger Everything is in such pristine condition, I cannot wait to explore and find out what wonders she is hiding.
TitanicVoyage #reporter News through that J.P. Morgan has cancelled his place on the ship and decided not to sail.
#officer The last few are boarding now and the launch is getting ever closer. The noise from all this excitement is deafening!
#firstclass Almost faint at the idea of being presented by name to the captain as soon as we are on board!
#firstclass Escorted aboard by a company representative, greeted at the head of the gangway by an officer in full dress.
#captain Boarding seems to be going smoothly. I have checked with engineering who are ready for the order to depart.
#thirdclass Once on board we were directed to our quarters very rapidly, our tickets are numbered.
#thirdclass Even this far down in the ship we are still well treated, the rooms have everything we could need.
#secondclass Just embarked with an hour to go into an enclosed deck; a steward guided us to our room
#firstclass Our quarters are truly stunning. New York will have a hard task to beat this level of luxury.
#Southampton I have never been so envious! Standing here watching all those people enter the ship. I wager she is magnificent inside!
#passenger Just look at all these people in the docks, all here to see our departure. I think I can see Mother but it’s hard to tell!
#crew Trying to get the passengers to move quickly is proving a challenge. Can’t blame them though, so much to take in.
#captain Boat drill complete with military precision, and for the first time at that. Merely a formality given the ship’s integrity.
#firstclass Masses of excitement as we begin to board Titanic, I have never seen engineering this magnificent.
#thirdclass We’ve been told we must board the ship hours before launch, apparently it is because there are so many of us.
#crew Just completed our first and only boat drill for the inspection, two boats were manned and lowered on the starboard side.
#crew Mustered on the Boat Deck this morning for a Board of Trade inspection. I hope they were impressed with our efficiency.
#officer The Grand Staircase clock has arrived, and it is truly magnificent. Its ornate design will add such an elegance to the hall.
#captain Today marks Good Friday, and the first time Titanic’s flags fly from the mast and rigging. I feel a true sense of pride in her.
#officer Only a day away from launch and the Grand Staircase clock still isn’t here. The mirror filling the gap might have to suffice…
#engineering An astonishing 5,892 tons of coal has been loaded on board – it’s going to be needed for these powerful engines.
#reporter Most valuable item stowed aboard is the Persian tome Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam, bejewelled with 1,500 gemstones.
#reporter Amongst the cargo are golf balls, Renault motor cars, and the only copy in existence of director Max Reinhardt’s the Mirical
#crew A large platform has been constructed on the harbour for officially invited guests to witness the launch. It will be well worthwhile.
#reporter Twenty couples are reported to be choosing the crossing to celebrate their marriage on the ship of dreams.
#engineering We should be able to make good speed. The indicated horse power of the reciprocating engines is 30,000 IHP.
#engineering She really is an immense vessel. A gross tonnage of over 46,000 tonnes!
#firstclass All the newspapers and magazines are raving about the luxurious nature of our special stateroom. I can’t wait!
#Reporter– Cranes are loading her with cargo, all 11,524 items weighing 559 tonnes, valued collectively at around £84,000.
#engineering Many have called her a ‘two compartment vessel’. She will stay afloat with any two adjacent compartments open to the sea.
#engineering All these watertight bulkheads are labelled A through H and J through O. Why miss out I?
#engineering Titanic has a cellular double bottom and is divided into 16 watertight compartments. Nothing will break through this.
#photographer You can find advertisements for Titanic everywhere- this is one I found with some soap http://twitpic.com/95x9i6
#engineering We are confident we have the most comprehensive watertight subdivision ever built.
#crew Now we begin the long process of loading provisions – 40 tonnes of potatoes, 75,000lb of meat, endless cutlery and much more.
#captain Still a lot of interior fitting to be done. The B-Deck suites, a la carte restaurant and the Café Parisien all need improvements.
#captain Been issued our Passenger Certificate for a foreign-going steam ship today. We need to ensure all these guidelines are adhered to.
#Southampton Amazing to see Titanic in port. A lot of people have gone down to see her arrival.
#crew We have arrived safely in Southampton and everyone is delighted with the success of the journey – the ship truly is magnificent.
#crew Today the Pilot Jack is flying majestically at the jackstaff and the Blue Ensign is at the foremast!
#crew Many decks to be cleared and checked before launch, lots of work to do before the captain is happy.
#crew Glad to hear that the Board signed off. Now we can focus on fitting her out with all the finest luxuries.
#officer Good news, the Board of Certification has signed off on her seaworthiness. There was never any doubt!
#crew Returned to Belfast after what has seemed like a successful day of sea trials. I hope the Board signs off on her worthiness…
#captain Conditions were absolutely ideal – 23 and a quarter knots! I have congratulated all those in engineering.
#engineering A well done all round for engineering – a speed of 23 and a quarter knots achieved for a short period. The captain is pleased.
#photographer I snapped this as she left Belfast on her trials. I’m already itching to rejoin her at Southampton! http://twitpic.com/94lvk5
#crew We have just been given the orders – sea trials to commence immediately. Next stop – Southampton.
#engineering A nervous but exciting morning for us. In 30 minutes the ship will leave dock for sea trials – let’s hope for a clear day
#engineer Refrigeration units are of the C02 type utilising the gas in its compressed form. Hopefully the poultry should keep!
#engineer Titanic has two ice-making machines located on G Deck. We want the passengers to have every luxury whilst they drink and dine.
#crew Sea trials tomorrow but most of the interior isn’t even complete yet! Let’s hope the boys in Southampton work fast!
#captain Sea trials scheduled tomorrow. We must ensure that all her systems worked as they are supposed to.
#reporter Sea trials in two days for Titanic, will she live up to all expectations?
#firstclass I hope there is plenty of space up on the promenade deck, my friends and I do like a good game of shuffleboard.
#reporter Excitement and anticipation is building in Belfast. Titanic towers over all in the dock.
#captain It only seems like yesterday that she was under construction in the dry dock…
#firstclass I have been telling all my friends about it, they are so jealous! In a little over 10 days we will be on board Titanic!
#crew The same can be said for the cabinet-makers, the scale of their operation is enormous!
#crew The upholsterers’ shop have done a fine job, it takes considerable skill to roll out so much exquisite furniture
#officer Still so much to do and not much time to do it. A lot of excitement surrounding the next week.
#officer The Grand Staircase is a magnificent example of woodwork and crafting.
#crew A new master was signed on today, Captain Herbert James Haddock.
#officer The lamps are essential to allow us to signal other vessels at night; you never know when we might need assistance.
#officer Just checking we have all our Morse Signal Lamps, we need to ensure we meet all Board of Trade requirements.
#crew Accessible directly from the forward first class staircase, use of the baths will incur a cost – $1 from the Enquiry Office.
#crew I am sure the first class passengers will enjoy the Turkish baths, a marvellous achievement to even have them on the ship!
#officer Titanic’s first class dining saloon can seat 554 people at a time. We will ensure 1 server is assigned to every 3 people.
#officer Stuart of Stourbridge has also done a marvellous job on the glassware – some of the finest I have ever seen
#officer The first class service at dinner will use only the finest bone china, some with edge designs in 22-carat gold!
#officer The embroideries and richly carved cornices also make for pleasant surroundings. I am sure the band will do it justice
#officer The a la carte restaurant is the epitome of refinement. The settees and chairs are upholstered in the finest silk.
#firstclass I hope the ‘millionaire’s’ suite is worth it – £870 for the single crossing so I expect only the best
#crew These suites are a home from home in of itself. A private bathroom, wardrobe room, sitting room, two bedrooms and a private promenade!
#crew The two ‘millionaires’ suites are nearly complete – a very similar size to those that were on Olympic’s B Deck.
#crew We really do have fantastic tableware thanks to Goldsmiths & Silversmiths. Over 21,000 pieces of cutlery, napkin rings and small wares
#firstclass I simply cannot wait to try the food, all the reports suggests it will be delicious. I hope I am not disappointed.
#crew The kitchen is fitted out with so much equipment, from hot plates and bain-maries to pressure filters and coffee boilers!
#officer Good to see the first 2 compasses in place, 1 in the wheelhouse and 1 on the navigation bridge.
#officer The painters have done a fantastic job in and out of the ship; a lot of surface area to be repainted at some point!
#firstclass With my ticket came a booklet detailing the voyage, the facilities and various diversions on board, I feel very well informed.
#photographer I’ve just had a look at the first-class suites. Truly those passengers will travel in comfort! http://twitpic.com/8zpgl2
#crew Where did I put those 12 distress signal rockets? We need those to adhere to Board of Trade guidelines…
#crew At 160ft in length and 92ft wide, the galley will have ample room to serve our passengers. They will recieve only the finest food.
#crew The galley and pantries on D-Deck are perfectly situated between the first and second class dining saloons.
#engineering Titanic is fitted with numerous watertight doors – very similar to those of the Adriatic.
#officer The passengers are going to love the Boat Deck. Plenty of space open for promenading and leisure.
#engineering All the heating equipment has finally been fitted, a selection of Bastia heaters, dowsing heaters and fireplaces.
#captain Here’s a cherished photo of me and my favourite sailing companion. http://twitpic.com/8yyygo
#captain Today marks the originally scheduled launch date of the ship – sea trials still to go but confident of launch on the 10th of April.
#crew The first of a 3-day inspection by the British Board of Trade. Everyone is confident Titanic will be cleared to sail on schedule.
#captain I welcomed all our newly signed junior officers aboard Titanic this morning – what an opportunity for them all.
#captain Titanic is getting a lot of media attention, we must ensure that she is seen in the best possible light.
#firstclass I hope we have sufficient heating in our quarters, it is sure to be cold as we travel across the icy Atlantic waters.
#crew Generally speaking, we do have a good number of lifebelts. In warmer waters, they will serve their purpose.
#crew Jumping into those waters even in a lifebelt will still result in death. Still, it won’t happen…
#crew I just feel that given the icy waters we’ll be sailing in, lifebelts are somewhat redundant!
#officer I understand some of the crew are worried about lifebelts. No need, they will float for 24hrs with 15lb of iron suspended from them
#crew I can attest to the safety and suitability of the lifeboats. The lifebelts however…
#crew In the case of emergency Titanic keeps suitable lifeboats. I’ve tried out the 25ft emergency cutter myself
#crew We keep a large quantity of green pyrotechnic lights for use as company signals on board, should the need arise.
#engineering So many UK companies have been involved in Titanic’s construction. The White Star Line really has done the country justice!
#engineering The docking bridge compass is fitted with a lighted card. It was installed by the firm C.J Smith of Southampton.
#engineering Titanic is fitted with four main compasses. They’re lighted with electric and oil lamps.
#crew Looking over E-Deck. This is where second-class passengers shall disembark when we arrive in New York.
#engineering You should have seen how the anchor was transported. It’s so big it took TWENTY shire horses to pull it.
#photographer Here’s a picture of Titanic’s anchor that I took outside the Lloyd’s Proving House last year.http://twitpic.com/8x1ei3
#engineering Interestingly, this huge anchor has the name of the Hingley Company printed on the shank and not the White Star Line.
#engineering The anchors of these vessels are a sight to behold. When Olympic was launched, she had the largest in the world!
#engineering Of course it will only be operational when moving forward and when the reciprocating engines are running over 50rpm.
#engineering The turbine engine will be a powerful beast; it should develop 16,000 shaft horsepower when running at 165rpm.
#crew Located on the navigating bridge and the docking bridge are a series of telegraphs for passenger use.
#captain Sea trials commence in just 18 days, that day simply cannot come soon enough
#engineering The famous Lord Kelvin developed a binnacle that compensated for the magnetism of the hull and the superstructure of the ship.
#engineering The North Pole can be a nuisance for navigators. It can attract the north point of the compass away from true north.
#photographer Just taken a picture of the public walking the deck, I am sure they will want some lasting memories http://twitpic.com/8w6fiz
#engineering The compasses on board Titanic will be subjected to error, variation and deviation from the magnetic North Pole.
#crew The extent of Titanic’s rigging is staggering, lots more still to be done before launch
#crew All flags packed and organised for display. The White Star Line flags, Blue Ensigns, Pilot Jacks and Royal Mail Pennants.
#engineering Just checked the ventilation systems. They consist of overhead supply trunks with branches going into various blocks of rooms.
#crew The capacity of the lifeboats is somewhat of a concern, only 1,178. If anything were to happen there won’t be enough space…
#crew Next on the list is the lifeboats, 20 overall. 14 of them are the 30-footers, which should carry 65 people.
#crew Just checking all 48 solid white lifebuoys; these are to be placed at various locations about the weather deck.
#officer With 2 rowing machines, weightlifting machine, back massager and a punch ball, the gymnasium is very well equipped.
#officer What a marvellous gymnasium we have on board, hopefully someone will make use of it but it seems like more of a gimmick…
#crew A Deck also has the perfect areas for our more refined passenger to relax, the staterooms facing forward and the public rooms.
#crew I can’t believe the length of A Deck, the Promenade Deck – 546ft from one end to the other. Incredible.
#officer It is only now we begin to understand Titanic’s true scope – 882ft long and 92ft wide!
#engineering Compared to the last century where things got a bit stagnated, shipbuilding nowadays is an industry in constant change.
#engineering In her construction, Titanic really has benefited from the experience we gained from working on Olympic.
#captain Exactly a month now before Titanic’s journey begins, I cannot wait to see her completed and on the ocean!
It is a smart use of twitter. I started following from a couple of days ago when I heard about it via a BBC Olympics journalist.
I wonder what other historic events could use this use of Twitter!
TheMoor
I completely agree, I think it was absolutely inspired and I can see many more potential uses for a real time historical timeline. Makes it so much easier for this generation to take it all in. Brilliant study aid!
Delighted to hear you enjoyed it! We are doing @WChapelRealTime next August, although there may be more between now and then…
I did indeed, it was an inspired idea. I actually think it could revalutionise learning as I think children would learn the salient points from historical events much better this way.