Titanic. Titanic is perhaps the most iconic ship in history, its tragic story known the world over. The most celebrated ocean liner of its time even before it first sailed, Titanic was an incredible feat of engineering and ambition. Its maiden voyage ended in tragedy when it struck an iceberg and sank, killing more than 1,500 passengers and crew. From its construction in Belfast, through its dramatic sinking to the discovery of the wreck, it is a story that continues to capture the public imagination. Photo: Titanic on its arrival at Queenstown (now Cobh) harbour, 11 April 1912 (Davidsons).