RMS Teutonic

RMS Teutonic was an ocean liner built for the White Star Line in Belfast. It started its journey in 1889 and was the sister ship of RMS Majestic. For about ten years, Teutonic and Majestic were the most important ships in the White Star Line’s fleet, until the ship Oceanic joined in 1899.

The Teutonic had a long career lasting 32 years. During this time, it served in World War I before being broken apart for scrap in 1921.

This ship was important for three special reasons. It was the first armed merchant cruiser, inspired Germany’s Kaiser-class ocean liners, and was the last White Star ship to win the Blue Riband, a prize for the fastest crossing of the Atlantic Ocean.

History

Background

In the late 1880s, many big shipping companies were racing to see which could have the fastest ship across the Atlantic Ocean. The White Star Line decided to build two new ships, Teutonic and Majestic, that could travel at an average speed of 20 knots. Construction began in 1887. These ships were special because they were built with help from the British government. In times of war, they could be used by the navy.

Illustration of RMS Teutonic of the White Star Line, the inspiration for the future "Four Flyers" of the Norddeutscher Lloyd.

Specifications

Teutonic and Majestic were the first ships of White Star Line to have two engines and two propellers instead of sails. They could carry passengers in three classes: first, second, and third. The first class had fancy rooms and public areas like a library. Second class passengers had their own special deck to walk on. Third class was comfortable for the time, with separate areas for men and women, and family rooms.

Career

The bridge of Teutonic in 1897

When Teutonic was launched in January 1889, it was the first White Star ship without sails. Later that year, it won a race across the Atlantic and held the record for a year. In 1907, Teutonic joined a special fast service between Southampton and New York. By 1911, it was replaced by newer ships and started a different route to Canada. In 1913, it narrowly missed hitting an iceberg close to Newfoundland.

War service and last years

When World War I began in 1914, Teutonic was used by the Royal Navy. It patrolled the waters between the Faroe Islands and Greenland. Later, it carried soldiers between Britain and Egypt. After the war, it was sold for scrap in 1921.