12| Titanic Memorial Crossing

Chapter 1 - Belfast
In March 1909 the keel of the Titanic was laid at Harland & Wolff's, Belfast.  So began her story which has fascinated generations to this day.  She was launched in May 1911, and after outfitting and sea trials she sailed for Southampton to enter service.

Chapter 2 - Southampton
On the 10th April 1912 RMS Titanic left on her maiden voyage admist the cheers of the great crowd gathered to see her off.  After touching Cherbourg and Queenstown she set out across the Atlantic for New York.

It is expected that 12|Titanic Memorial Crossing will leave Southampton early on the 10th April 2012 for the site of Titanic today.  The leaving will be scheduled to ensure that we arrive to be in position exactly 100 years on.

It is expected that it will be an exciting yet emotional departure.  During the next 24 hours we will be passing Cherbourg and Queenstown (Cobh) and the first of a series of lectures will begin following the 'Titanic Timeline'

Chapter 3 - The Crossing
Crossing the Atlantic now - the weather in April 1912 was good for the time of year.  Titanics passengers would have time to enjoy the facilities of this magnificent ship with its entertainment and fine fare.   Many Marconigrams wishing Titanic well as well as weather and iceberg reports

At sea. Plenty of time to enjoy the extensive facilities of our ship.   Weather in the Atlantic this time of year can be very unpredictable. Titanic's progress will recounted during her crossing using lectures and many of the Marconigrams .

At 11:40 pm on the 14th April 1912 the Titanic collided with an iceberg and sustained fatal damage.  Two and a half hours later - at 2:20 am  on the 15th - she broke in two and vanished beneath the icy waters of the Atlanitic

We will arrive at the sinking area in the early evening.   A special event is being planned called 'The Final Hours' that will chronicle the last evening aboard the Titanic and onto the collision and sinking. This will be followed by a memorial service at 2:20am on the 15th. We will depart the sinking area early on the 15th April.

Chapter 5 - The Discovery

The wreck of the Titanic was discovered by xxx and Dr Robert Ballard on the 1st September 1985.  A year later he returned to the site and brought back haunting images of the shattered remains of the once-majestic liner.

Since the discovery salvage experts have raised over 6000 artefacts from the wreck site, which now form part of major exhibitions around the world.

On route to New York.  Lectures will continue with the Rescue and Aftermath. Also we will have historians on board that have been to the wreck of the Titanic and will tell the story of this ultimate experience.