Speed and More Speed

Increasing Speed:

• Titanic’s speed was increased continually from the start of its voyage.
• By April 14, 1912, Titanic was traveling at its highest speed ever, averaging over 22 knots.

Daily Runs and Revolutions:

• The ship’s revolutions per minute (rpm) increased each day: 68 rpm from Southampton to Cherbourg, 70 rpm to Queenstown, 72 rpm on the second day, and 75 rpm on the third day.
• The distances covered were 484 nautical miles on the first day, 519 on the second, and 546 on the third.

Speed Through the Night:

• Despite ice warnings, Titanic maintained high speed through the night of April 14.
• Testimonies from officers and crew indicated the ship was making about 75-76 rpm, equating to approximately 22.3 knots.

Coal Supply:

• Titanic had sufficient coal for the voyage, with about 6,000 tons on board, enough to reach New York with a two-day reserve.
• Testimonies about coal shortages were based on the hypothetical scenario of running at full speed for the entire voyage, which was not the case.

Intent to Beat Olympic’s Record:

• There was an intent to better the maiden voyage performance of Titanic’s sister ship, Olympic.
• Passengers overheard conversations indicating a desire to arrive in New York on Tuesday, potentially setting a new maiden voyage record for a White Star Line vessel.

Influence of J. Bruce Ismay:

• Ismay, Managing Director of the White Star Line, was involved in discussions about the ship’s performance but did not directly influence Captain Smith’s decisions.
• Ismay’s conversations with passengers and Captain Smith indicated a desire for a fast crossing but did not amount to orders.

Captain Smith’s Decisions:

• Captain Smith followed the common practice of maintaining course and speed in clear weather despite ice warnings.
• He believed that icebergs could be seen in time to avoid them and was more concerned about the potential for fog or haze.

Conclusions:

• Titanic’s speed was increased steadily, and there was no coal shortage.
• The desire to beat Olympic’s record was present but did not override safety considerations.
• Captain Smith’s actions were consistent with standard practices of the time, and the disaster was a result of an error in judgment rather than recklessness.