Titanic Leaves Belfast 1

Titanic leaving Belfast, April 1912.

This photograph, taken on 2 April 1912, shows Titanic slowly moving down Belfast Lough towards the open sea, escorted by Harland & Wolff’s tugs.  She was to undertake several hours of sea trials before setting sail for Southampton. 

Her four huge funnels tower more than 80 feet above the boat deck, while their elegant rake is matched by her lofty masts.  Externally Titanic can be distinguished from her sister ship Olympic by the forward enclosure of Promenade Deck A.  This was done in order to protect first class passengers from the weather.