The Final Dinner

Queenstown in sight. Titanic arrives at the outer anchorage at 1130am on 11th April 1912. One hundred and twenty three passengers assemble at the White Star Line pier to board the tenders Ireland and America. There are three first class, seven second class and the remainder steerage. The tenders proceed to the deepwater quay to load bags from the mail train. The two tenders sail out to the Titanic along with several smaller vessels carrying local vendors who sell lace and crafts to the wealthier passengers.

At 1.30pm an exchange of whistles indicates that the tenders’ business is complete. Titanic weighs anchor to the strains of Erin's Lament and A Nation Once Again.

A crew member deserts....perhaps he had a premonition….

In second class, passengers are getting accustomed to luxury normally associated with first class on other liners.

There are 285 second class passengers on board....168 men, 93 women and 24 children. Their tickets, costing £13, bring certain privileges including use of an electric elevator – unheard of in second class.

On the 12 and 13th of April, the Titanic sails through calm waters and her passengers feast as never before. The finest cuisine available, anywhere, served as if for a king and queen. Course after course in first class with different, exquisite wines.

First class dining saloon April 14th 1912.

One unknown diner comments:

“It is a brilliant crowd. Jewels flash from the gowns of the women. The soft, sweet odour of rare flowers pervade the atmosphere. It is a rare gathering of beautiful women and splendid men.”

Dinner is served. A glittering occasion with 10 courses to savour….. including oysters, salmon, lamb, pigeon, and choice desserts.

RMS Titanic sails on into the night.

“Gourmet food, the finest wine A first class feast from the White Star Line”

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