Departure from New York

Eight tugs drag the Titan to midstream and point her nose down the river. The pilot is dropped east of Sandy Hook, and the real voyage begins. The ship's engines start, and she moves slowly to sea. Below deck, coal-passers and stokers work in the inferno of the engine room, while on deck sailors set triangular sails to add propulsion. The passengers disperse according to their tastes: some sit in steamer chairs, some pace the deck, others listen to the orchestra or read in the library. The decks are cleared, watches are set at noon, and the never-ending cleaning-up begins. This departure establishes the routine of the voyage and the contrast between the luxurious passenger experience and the harsh labor below.