At the beginning of the 20th Century the White Star Line produced the CELTIC-class ocean liners commonly known as "The Big Four." The first three, CELTIC, CEDRIC, and BALTIC, were each the largest ship in the world upon their entry into service. The last of the four would never carry this title due to the introduction of Cunard's colossal LUSITANIA and MAURETANIA. However, the RMS ADRIATIC of 1907 was still the flagship of what many considered the finest fleet in the world. She was the largest and fastest of her sisters and the first ship to inaugurate White Star's Southampton express service. Her interiors were second to none and bear quite a resemblance to the forthcoming OLYMPIC-class ships. Especially the oak-panelled lounge, spacious dining saloon, and stained glass smoking room. She also featured the first Turkish Bath at sea (an early form of spa) and a plunge bath that foreshadowed OLYMPIC's swimming pool. The ADRIATIC returned to the Liverpool run once OLYMPIC entered service although she would frequently be called upon to fill in gaps on the Southampton express service throughout the years. She is well known for repatriating many survivors and crew of the RMS TITANIC including J. Bruce Ismay and Millvina Dean. After a successful career she left Liverpool for the last time 19 December 1934. Her destination was Japan where she was scrapped in 1935.

• published: 10 Aug 2015
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