Learn more about the story of the Titanic, and see videos filmed by OceanGate Expeditions to the shipwreck with their submersibles.
If one story captivates the mind, then it is that of the Titanic. The story of the Titanic extends far beyond its tragic sinking. The legend of the behemoth continues surprising and enamoring people more than one hundred years after its sinking. The ship, a marvel of its time, was conceived and built during an era characterized by extraordinary technological advancement and ambitious human endeavor. The Titanic was to the seas what the Sputnik 1 was for space. Engineers worked for years, deploying innovative construction methods and materials to erect this gigantic vessel, resulting, eventually, with a true giant that could travel the oceans.
At its launch, the Titanic was hailed as the pinnacle of human innovation, a testament to humankind’s mastery over nature. And it very way may have been, but it was also a belief tragically shattered on that fateful night in April 1912. Nevertheless, Titanic’s tale has become a touchstone in global consciousness, a sobering reminder of the consequences of human hubris, the need for safety regulations, and the power of human stories to endure and inspire. However, the story of the Titanic was also a display of what humankind could achieve and what humankind could build. The Titanic is a story of courage, exploration, and a story of humankind overcoming obstacles. But it is also a reminder of what happens when safety is not put first when human lives are at stake.
That said, here are ten facts about the Titanic you probably did not know, and the incredible 8k video footage of the shipwreck, filmed by the OceanGate Expeditions submarine.
1. The Tragic Tale That Captivated the World
In the icy North Atlantic on April 15, 1912, the supposedly unsinkable “Titanic” met its catastrophic fate, becoming one of history’s most infamous maritime disasters. With over 2,200 passengers and crew on board, more than 1,500 lives were tragically lost, their stories forever etched into the annals of history.
2. The Titanic Was the Largest Ship of Its Time
Constructed by the prominent shipbuilding company Harland and Wolff, in Belfast, the RMS Titanic was the epitome of size and luxury. At 882 feet in length and weighing 46,328 tons, it was the world’s largest ship during its ill-fated voyage. Today, there are much, much larger ships sailing Earth’s oceans. But during its time, the Titanic was a true Titan.
3. Opulence Defined the Titanic’s Interiors
The Titanic’s interiors offered unprecedented luxury, modeled after those of high-end hotels. Facilities included a gymnasium, a Turkish bath, a swimming pool, and multiple dining areas. The grand staircase, an icon of the ship’s extravagant design, featured a beautiful glass dome above it. The interior of the Titanic is what one could expect when the first space hotel opens in orbit around Earth. That classy feeling is what I believe will be included in space.
4. Insufficient Lifeboats
One of the most glaring oversights in the Titanic’s design was the insufficient number of lifeboats. With a capacity for just over half of the passengers and crew, the catastrophic result of this neglect became painfully evident when disaster struck. Today, things are very different, and cruise ships that sail the world must put the safety of the passengers and crew first place. This should have been the case back then. But it seems that we learned from our mistakes.
5. The Iceberg Wasn’t Spotted Until It Was Too Late and other theories
On the night of the tragedy, lookouts failed to spot the looming iceberg until it was dangerously close. The ship couldn’t avoid the iceberg due to its immense size and momentum, leading to a catastrophic collision. Trust me, and it wasn’t anything like in the movie. However, even though the iceberg is the most widely accepted explanation of why the massive ship sank, many theories are still out there, including Atlantis, aliens, and a new world order being introduced. A great legend such as the Titanic carries a lot of conspiracy weight on its shoulders.
6. The Unsinkable Molly Brown
Margaret Brown, known as “Molly,” became heroic when she helped others board the lifeboats, refusing to leave until she was the last one aboard. Her fearlessness earned her the nickname “The Unsinkable Molly Brown.” I am sure that many other unnoticed heroes risked their lives to help others on the night of the sinking.
7. The Titanic’s Wreckage Wasn’t Discovered Until 1985
The remains of the Titanic were lost to the depths for more than 70 years. It wasn’t until 1985 that a joint American-French expedition, led by oceanographer Robert Ballard, discovered the ship’s wreckage on the Atlantic Ocean floor. In fact, did you know that only three submarines in the entire world can travel to the depth the shipwreck of the Titanic is located?
8. The Titanic Influenced Maritime Safety Regulations
The disaster led to a worldwide overhaul of maritime safety regulations. The first International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) took place in 1914, leading to mandatory lifeboat space for every person on a ship, among other regulations. I always wondered why tragedy needs to take place for humans to take safety and regulations in the first place. Hopefully, as we explore the depths of our planet, better regulations will take care of the lives of those that take the risk and travel.
9. ItContinues to Inspire Popular Culture
The Titanic saga continues to capture the public imagination. James Cameron’s 1997 film “Titanic” is one of the most successful movies ever, grossing over $2 billion globally and winning 11 Academy Awards. Some have seen the movie countless times and continue to hail it as one of the greatest movies and stories in the history of cinematography. I have only watched it once. For me, it isn’t a movie I’d be willing to see more than once. I cried once. That’s enough.
10. OceanGates Expeditions Video of the Titanic in 8k
The Titanic’s legacy is kept alive through various museums and exhibits around the globe. These include the Titanic Belfast in Northern Ireland, the Titanic Museum Attraction in the United States, and traveling exhibits featuring recovered artifacts from the ship’s wreckage.
A longer video by the Titan submarine by OceanGate Expeditions
The Titanic’s story—though tragic—has influenced various aspects of society, from safety regulations to popular culture. And as we look back to the tragic story of the Titanic, we are reminded that, even more than a hundred years later, the shipwreck attracts the attention of people worldwide. Evidence of that is the tragic disappearance of a tourist submersible that was en-route to visit the shipwreck when it disappeared with five people on board. As of writing, we are yet to hear news of the successful recovery of the five people onboard.
Have something to add? Visit Curiosmos on Facebook. Join the discussion in our mobile Telegram group.
