MORE than a century after SS Nomadic was originally launched as a tender ship in 1911, it has experienced record visitor numbers as a Belfast tourist attraction.
The heritage venue, which is famous as a tender for Titanic and is a quarter of her size in every dimension, welcomed a record increase in visitors this year, new figures show.
Indeed since Titanic Belfast (www.titanicbelfast.com) took over operations of SS Nomadic in 2015, it has welcomed more than 250,000 visitors.
During this time, Titanic Belfast and Titanic Foundation, with support from Tourism Northern Ireland, have carried out a significant programme of investment to align and integrate SS Nomadic with the world class standards of Titanic Belfast.
The venue is now well established for exclusive hire and has fully catered for events, ranging from private and corporate drinks receptions to fine dining for up to 200 people.
Titanic Belfast chief executive Tim Husbands said: “In two years SS Nomadic, the last remaining White Star Line vessel and largest Titanic artefact in the world, has been given a new lease of life.
"We are delighted with the increase in visitor numbers and events on-board, which showcase the sustainability of the ship. It is definitely now firmly established as one of Belfast’s favourite tourist attractions and one of its most authentic event venues with business and leisure tourists alike enjoying the space on-board and period features.”
Kerrie Sweeney, chief executive of the Titanic Foundation, added: “Linking both attractions together as one experience has proved extremely popular.
"Visitors enjoy exploring the nine interpretative galleries of our iconic attraction, Titanic Belfast but the highlight is touching and feeling the authentic heritage on board SS Nomadic, now positioned as the 10th gallery.
"This increase in visitors generates essential income to support the ongoing operations, maintenance and conservation of SS Nomadic and Hamilton Dock, preserving a significant part of Belfast’s maritime heritage for future generations.”
