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Steam Ships Introduced
Introduced in the early 1800s, changed sea travel by using steam engines instead of sails making journeys faster and more reliable. Early steamships like Robert Fultons Clermont used paddle wheels but later ships such as Brunel's SS Great Britain used more efficient screw propellers. This innovation helped steamships travel further and opened up global trade making ocean voyages more regular and faster. Overtime they switched from coal to oil, improving their performance even more. -
SS Great Britain
Launched in 1843 and designed by Isambard Kingdom Brune. It was a revolutionary ship in maritime history. It was the first large ocean liner to feature an iron hull and screw propeller, setting it apart from the traditional wooden, paddle powered ships of the era. Originally intended for transatlantic service, the ships innovations made it faster, stronger and more efficient, influencing future ship design. -
Electricity Introduced To ships
Electricity began to be introduced to ships in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Early implementations included electric lighting which replaced gas lamps and significantly improved visibility and safety. By the early 1900s ships like the Mauretania and the Titanic featured electric lighting and eventually electricity was used to power various systems including communication equipment and engine controls. This advancement greatly improved passenger comfort and operational efficiency. -
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Luxury ships introduced
Luxury ships began to become more popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries transforming sea travel into more luxury experiences. Vessels like the Titanic and Queen Mary were renewed for their luxury accommodations and high quality amenities including fine dining and elegant lounges. these ships set new standards for comfort and sophistication on the high seas and their influence continues today in modern cruise ships. -
The Titanic Sank
The sinking of the Titanic happened on April 15th 1912 after the ship hit an inborn during its voyage from Southhampton to New York. The Titanic was named 'unsinkable', it hit an iceberg at around 11:40pm causing extensive damage to its hull. Over the course of 2 and a half hours, the ship sank resulting in the deaths of more than 1,500 people out of the 2,224 on board. This disaster showed serious safety problems like not having enough lifeboats. -
1840 Cunard World First Cruise Liner
In 1840, Cunard line introduced the Britannia which is the worlds first ship designed specifically for leisure cruising rather than just transportation. Unlike early vessels primarily used for transatlantic crossing or cargo. The Britannia focused on passenger comfort and enjoyment marking the beginning of the modern cruise industry. This innovation improved developments in cruising emphasising travel as a pleasurable experience rather than just getting from one destination to another -
Wireless Communication At Sea
Wireless communication at sea began with the advent of radio technology in the early 20th century. The introduction of radio systems allowed ships to send and receive messages without needing physical cables, revolutionising maritime communication. One of the earliest and most notable uses was during the Titanic disaster in 1912 when ships wireless operator sent out distress signals that were important in coordinating the rescue efforts. This developed significantly and improved safety at sea -
QE2 is launched
The Queen Elizabeth 2 was launched on September 20 1967 by Cunard Line. It was one of the most famous ocean liners of the 20th century designed for both transatlantic crossing and luxury cruising. The QE2 was known for its elegant design, state of the art amenities and good service making it a symbol of maritime luxury. Over its career it became an iconic ship reflecting the ocean travel before the rise of modern ships. -
Oasis class ships launched
The oasis class ships from royal Caribbean starting with the oasis of the seas in 2009 are among the largest and most advanced cruise ships ever built. they feature unique amenities like a park with real trees, a boardwalk with a carousel and themed areas for dining and entertainment. These ships offer a luxurious cruise experience