Launch of British ocean liner RMS Olympic

October 20th, 1910

October 20th, 1910

Launch of British ocean liner RMS Olympic
How Long Ago?

114 years, 4 months, 23 days ago

Location

Belfast, Ireland

Category

Transportation & Infrastructure

People
  • J. Bruce Ismay
  • Lord Pirrie
Links & References
Tags

Launch of British ocean liner RMS Olympic

The RMS Olympic, the first of the White Star Line's Olympic-class ocean liners, was launched from Harland and Wolff shipyard in Belfast. The launch was a significant moment for the shipbuilding industry, showcasing advancements in maritime technology. More than 100,000 spectators gathered to witness this impressive event, which marked a new era in transatlantic travel. With a length of 882 feet and a gross tonnage of 45,324 tons, the RMS Olympic promised luxury and speed, paving the way for her sisters, the RMS Titanic and RMS Britannic.

First Olympic-class ocean liner launched

Over 100,000 spectators attended

Set standards for luxury ocean travel

Served in WWI as a troopship

What Happened?

The launch of the RMS Olympic took place at the Harland and Wolff shipyard in Belfast, representing a monumental achievement in maritime engineering. As the first of the three Olympic-class ocean liners commissioned by the White Star Line, the Olympic was designed to compete with the Cunard Line's Lusitania and Mauretania, which were the fastest and most luxurious ships of their time. The completion of the Olympic was a significant milestone, as it involved cutting-edge technology and extravagant amenities that were unprecedented for ocean liners. The day was marked by festivity and excitement, attracting an estimated 100,000 people to the shipyard. The ship slid into the water after the ceremonial breaking of a champagne bottle, a tradition that signifies good fortune for the vessel. The RMS Olympic was notable not only for its size and luxury but also for its role in evolving the cruise and transatlantic shipping industry. Featuring lavish dining rooms, a swimming pool, and a gymnasium, it offered passengers unparalleled comfort. Upon entering service, the Olympic carried a mix of first-class, second-class, and third-class passengers, becoming a favored choice for affluent travelers. Its maiden voyage in 1911 set a new standard for luxury liners and paved the way for future innovations in shipbuilding, emphasizing safety and opulence. The Olympic's career was marked by notable events, including its rescue of the survivors of the RMS Titanic disaster in 1912. During World War I, the ship was repurposed as a troopship, illustrating the versatility of these large vessels during times of conflict. The Olympic continued to serve until the late 1930s, after which it was scrapped. Its legacy, however, remains significant in maritime history, as it represented a peak in luxury travel before the significant changes of the interwar period.

Why Does it Matter?

The launch of the RMS Olympic is interesting as it symbolizes the zenith of early 20th-century shipbuilding. It introduced innovations that went beyond mere transportation, setting a precedent for luxury and safety standards in ocean travel. The ship became a cultural icon, and its success reflects the growing demand for transatlantic travel.

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