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Meaning of maiden voyage in English

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  • break-journey
  • circumnavigation

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  • What is a Maiden Voyage?

The Titanic famously sank on its maiden voyage.

The term maiden voyage refers to the first expedition made by a vessel after its performance has been tested. The term has also been used to mean a person’s first time doing something. Before a ship’s maiden voyage, a bottle of alcohol (usually champagne) is broken over the ship’s bow for good luck. The history associated with maiden voyages dates back to ancient times with ancient civilizations having special ceremonies to invoke their gods to protect them on long ocean voyages. The ancients brought shrines into their ships, and the tradition proceeded long into the Middle Ages. Most ships have successful maiden voyages; however, some have been tragic, with the most famous being the RMS Titanic.

Notable Maiden Voyages

The rms titanic.

The RMS Titanic was one of the world’s most famous ships not only because it was the largest ship at the time of its completion but also because it met a tragic end during its maiden voyage. The owners of the Titanic chose to forego the traditional elaborate ship launching ceremony. The ship’s maiden voyage began on April 10, 1912, under the command of Captain Edward Smith with about 2,224 people on board. Two days after the ship’s launch at around 11:40 pm the ship struck an iceberg on the starboard side which allowed water to get into the ship. The ship took around 2 hours and 40 minutes to completely sink with the death toll estimated at more than 1,500 people. Most of the deaths were due to the ship’s crew not being adequately prepared for such an event and the ship not having enough lifeboats.

Launched on June 10, 1875, the Mohawk was owned by William T. Garner and was the largest racing yacht of the time at 140 feet. The yacht’s doomed maiden voyage began on July 20, 1876, off Staten Island with the entire Garner family on board. A sudden violent gust of wind struck the yacht making it capsize. The accident had no survivor as everyone on board drowned. The yacht was later recovered and renamed the Eagre. The Eagre participated in a survey of the Nantucket Shoals led by Lieutenant E.M. Hughes.

The Vasa was constructed at the command of King Gustavus Adolphus as the flagship of the standby regiment. The ship was under the command of Captain Sofring Hansson who received the command to set sail on the ship’s maiden voyage on August 10, 1628, from Alvsnabben. After a journey of approximately 4,200 feet to Tegelviken, water began filling the ship from the open gun ports. A strong wind had filled the ship’s sails, and because it was unstable, it was unable to right itself when forced on the port side. Thirty people died in spite of all the efforts of ships nearby. The ship was salvaged in 1961 and is now a major tourist attraction.

Safety Standards on Present-day Vessels

To prevent a catastrophic loss of life on a transport vessel stringent safety requirements have been set up. All ships are required to have enough lifeboats for all the people on board and the crew expected to be trained on proper evacuation procedures. Transport vessels are only certified once they have proven to have met all the required safety measures.

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maiden voyage

  • 1.1 Etymology
  • 1.2.1 Translations

English [ edit ]

Etymology [ edit ].

See maiden ( adjective ) .

Noun [ edit ]

maiden voyage ( plural maiden voyages )

  • 1998 , Cynthia Bass, Maiden Voyage ‎ [1] , Random House Publishing Group, →ISBN : For one thing, it was a maiden voyage , which always meant both passengers and staff were a little giddier, a little looser, than usual.

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Definition of 'maiden voyage'

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What Are Maiden and Inaugural Voyages?

Recently, Celebrity Cruises recently announced that the much-anticipated Celebrity Edge is ahead of schedule and will begin sailing earlier than expected.  While this is generally great news, there are some who may be less than thrilled, and this made us stop and wonder - what is a "maiden voyage?"

Celebrity Edge's pool deck, Magic Carpet to the right

Edge's Maiden Voyage Plans

In June of 2017 we shared that Celebrity Edge 's maiden voyage would be December 16, 2018 out of her home port of Port Everglades in Ft Lauderdale, FL.  She'll still be sailing that voyage, which is a seven night Eastern Caribbean sailing to San Juan , Tortola , and St Maarten.  The early completion however means that her first sailing (sort of, we'll get to that...) is now November 21st, 2018. 

“Thanks to the amazing work of the STX France shipyard team , the industry-changing Celebrity Edge is now scheduled to arrive much earlier than anticipated, which gave us the opportunity to offer not one, but two maiden voyages,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President and CEO, Celebrity Cruises. “Both of these maiden voyages, plus the taste of luxury preview sailings, will have all of the festivities one would expect from the launch of such a revolutionary new ship, and now even more guests will have the chance to experience these one-of-a-kind inaugural sailings.”

What will Celebrity Edge be doing with that extra time?  Celebrity has added four sailings, three nights each, departing Fort Lauderdale on November 21, November 24, December 3, and December 6.  These sailings are a great way to try out the latest and greatest from Celebrity without committing to a full seven night sailing.  Want a new opportunity for a full seven night sailing?  In addition to the three-nighters, they've added an Western Caribbean seven night sailing out of Ft Lauderdale on December 9, 2018, heading to  Key West , Cozumel, Costa Maya, and Grand Cayman .

Who Might Not Love This?

Passengers with their heart set on sailing Edge's Maiden Voyage might not love this change, as they were booked on what they thought was the first sailing on December 16th, but that's now scheduled to be the sixth cruise for the new ship.  In these type of circumstances though, cruise lines generally give booked guests first crack at changing to a new and earlier sailing.  It brings up a good point though, and something I can't stress enough: They can be fun, but  don't get your heart set on maiden voyages.  Why?  Well, to start, let's take a cue from The Bard and ask, "what's in a name?"

Some will enjoy Edge's Infinite Verandah staterooms earlier than expected

A Sailing By Any Other Name

Often you'll hear two words used about new builds and many of us don't think about what they mean: maiden and inaugural.  What's the difference?  A maiden voyage generally refers to  a first  or  the first.   A ship leaving port with paying passengers for the first time is taking it's maiden voyage.  If that voyage is say, from France to the US, then it's also its maiden transatlantic voyage.  After that trip, perhaps it's going to St Lucia for its maiden Southern Caribbean voyage.  The next sailing, if to Mexico , would be its maiden Western Caribbean voyage.  Get the idea?

An inaugural voyage usually refers to the pomp and circumstance, the celebration of a new ship.  For this reason, a ship based out of South Florida may have a maiden voyage from Europe (where most US-based cruise lines have their ships built), and then an inaugural voyage out of South Florida.  In fact, her first voyage out of South Florida might not be her inaugural, as there might be some sailings for the media, travel agents, etc first.  

To add to this word soup of sailings, often you'll hear about an inaugural season - which could be the first season a ship sails the Caribbean, or the first year a ship sails in general.  

Better to Miss a Maiden Voyage than "Miss the Boat"

Yes, we know, it's a ship .  While Celebrity Edge has seen some changes to her maiden voyage, this is a great reason.  It's not uncommon at all for maiden voyages to be rescheduled because of delays.  Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a 100k+ gross ton ship.  AIDAprima, Oceania Riviera, and Disney Magic are just a few ships which saw delays resulting in the cancellation and changing of sailings, and many unhappy would-be guests, who we're sure cruise lines worked hard to please.  Sometimes the challenges are mechanical, other times they're related to weather, and in the case of the Riviera, a strike at the shipyard caused delays.  

Whatever the cause of delays, this is the other big reason we caution people about booking a maiden voyage.  It's not that we wouldn't do it ourselves, it's just important to keep in mind that things happen, and no matter how angry a guest gets, it won't get the ship completed at a different time.  It's also possible that maiden voyages may offer guests a sparkling new ship with some things still being worked on, like we saw with the Harmony of the Seas when she sailed in Europe with some construction being done before crossing the Atlantic in a more finished state.

Wrapping it Up

With any ship-building project, nevermind one as complex and innovative as Edge, an early completion is really impressive.  We get very excited about these things, and we hope you do too, but it's no secret that the more a cruise line can use the words "inaugural" and "maiden" the more excitement and urgency there will be about booking those sailings and the more shirts and other onboard merchandise that will be sold.  Because we want to prove that we're not bitter about the name game that is in play with new ships, you'll find CruiseHabit on a couple of these sailings, and certainly buying up a few " Celebrity Edge Inaugural Season" t-shirts, bags, commemorative ping-pong balls, and anything else we can find.  

DCL Fantasy Inaugural Shirt

Check the gallery below for more inaugural swag, some of which wasn't available to the public. 

Have you sailed on a ship's maiden voyage?  Do you have one booked?  Let us know in the comments below or reach out on Twitter or Facebook !

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  • Travel Tips

What Does Maiden Voyage Mean

Published: December 14, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Valaria Schleicher

  • Travel Essentials & Accessories
  • Travel Guide

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Introduction

Have you ever wondered what the term “maiden voyage” means? It carries a sense of adventure, anticipation, and the thrill of embarking on a journey into the unknown. In the world of travel and exploration, the maiden voyage holds a special significance, symbolizing the beginning of a new chapter in history.

A maiden voyage refers to the inaugural journey of a newly built ship or an aircraft. It marks the first time that the vessel sets sail or takes to the skies with passengers on board. This momentous occasion is filled with excitement and often accompanied by various traditions and superstitions.

Throughout history, the concept of a maiden voyage has been intertwined with tales of bravery, exploration, and discovery. Some of the most famous voyages have gone down in legend, leaving an indelible mark on our collective consciousness.

Whether it is the Titanic setting off on its ill-fated maiden voyage or Christopher Columbus embarking on his expedition across the Atlantic, these journeys represent bold endeavors that have shaped the course of history.

Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of maiden voyages, exploring their historical significance, traditions and superstitions, famous examples, challenges and risks, and their modern interpretation in today’s travel industry.

Definition of Maiden Voyage

A maiden voyage is the first journey undertaken by a newly constructed ship or aircraft, marking its inaugural voyage with passengers or cargo. It is a significant event that symbolizes the culmination of years of planning, construction, and anticipation.

During a maiden voyage, the ship or aircraft sets sail or takes off for the very first time. It represents the moment when the vessel transitions from being a mere construction project to a fully functional mode of transportation. The maiden voyage is an exciting milestone for the shipbuilders, crew, and passengers alike.

Typically, maiden voyages are highly publicized, attracting attention from media outlets and travel enthusiasts. The event often includes ceremonies, christenings, and celebrations to commemorate the ship’s launch and draw attention to its unique features and capabilities.

The duration and destination of a maiden voyage can vary. Some may be short excursions designed to test the vessel’s systems and ensure its seaworthiness, while others may be longer journeys meant to showcase its capabilities or establish new trade routes.

The significance of a maiden voyage extends beyond the physical journey itself. It represents a new chapter in transportation history, marking advancements in technology, design, and innovation. It is a testament to human ingenuity and the spirit of exploration.

The maiden voyage is also an opportunity for shipbuilders, operators, and crew members to assess and refine the vessel’s performance, comfort, and safety features. It allows them to identify any potential issues or areas for improvement before the ship or aircraft goes into regular service.

Overall, a maiden voyage symbolizes the excitement of new beginnings, the thrill of adventure, and the hope for successful and prosperous journeys ahead.

Historical Significance

Maiden voyages hold great historical significance, as they mark pivotal moments in transportation history and have often been associated with pioneering achievements and exploration.

Throughout the ages, maiden voyages have been catalysts for groundbreaking discoveries, the establishment of new trade routes, and the expansion of empires. They have allowed civilizations to connect and exchange goods, ideas, and cultures.

One of the most famous historical maiden voyages is that of Christopher Columbus in 1492. His voyage across the Atlantic Ocean, seeking a shorter trade route to Asia, resulted in the discovery of the Americas, forever altering the course of world history.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, the maiden voyages of steamships and ocean liners played a crucial role in the era of mass migration and trade expansion. These grand vessels transported millions of immigrants, goods, and materials across continents and oceans, facilitating the growth of nations and the globalization of economies.

The maiden voyage of the RMS Titanic in 1912 stands as a tragic testament to the historical significance of these voyages. Intended to be a symbol of luxury and innovation, the ill-fated ship’s sinking on its maiden voyage highlighted the dangers and risks associated with pushing the boundaries of technology and transportation.

Maiden voyages have also seen great advancements in aviation. The Wright brothers’ successful maiden flight in 1903 paved the way for the development of modern aircraft and commercial aviation. Subsequent maiden flights of jet-powered aircraft such as the Boeing 707 and Concorde marked significant milestones in aviation history and revolutionized air travel.

Throughout history, maiden voyages have captured the imagination of people around the world, symbolizing human ambition, exploration, and the pursuit of progress. They have expanded our understanding of the world, opened new frontiers, and left an indelible mark on our collective history.

Traditions and Superstitions

Maiden voyages are steeped in traditions and superstitions that have been passed down through generations. These rituals and beliefs aim to bring good luck, safe passage, and prosperous journeys to the newly launched vessel and its passengers.

One common tradition during a maiden voyage is the christening ceremony. This involves breaking a bottle of champagne or another beverage against the ship’s hull or airplane’s exterior. The shattering of the glass symbolizes good fortune and serves as a ceremonial blessing for the vessel and all who sail or fly on it.

Another well-known tradition is the hoisting of signal flags. Ships often raise a series of colorful flags to spell out messages or codes. This practice originated as a way to communicate with other vessels or shore stations before the invention of wireless communication. During a maiden voyage, hoisting special signal flags can signify the ship’s inaugural journey.

In addition to these ceremonies, various superstitions surround maiden voyages. Some sailors believe it is bad luck to begin a voyage on a Friday, a belief that dates back to the medieval era. This superstition led to the term “Freaky Friday” or “Black Friday” when referring to this supposedly ill-fated day.

Another common superstition is the tradition of placing a coin under the mast of a ship. It is believed that this act will bring good luck and a safe return to all aboard. It also symbolizes a payment to the gods or the mythical figures protecting the crew and passengers.

Additionally, some sailors and passengers believe in the “whispers of the sea” superstition, which suggests that speaking certain words or phrases on a ship may bring about bad luck or calamity. To avoid tempting fate, nautical terms like “drowning,” “shipwreck,” or “goodbye” are often avoided during a voyage.

Overall, these traditions and superstitions surrounding maiden voyages reflect the deep-rooted beliefs and reverence for the unpredictable and vast expanses of the sea and sky. They serve as a way to invoke protection, bring luck, and honor the rich history and traditions of the maritime and aviation industries.

Famous Maiden Voyages

Throughout history, there have been several maiden voyages that have captured the attention and imagination of the public. These journeys, whether successful or met with tragedy, have left an enduring legacy and become a part of our collective consciousness.

One of the most famous maiden voyages is undoubtedly that of the RMS Titanic. The White Star Line’s luxurious ocean liner embarked on its maiden voyage from Southampton, England, to New York City in 1912. However, tragedy struck when the Titanic struck an iceberg and sank in the North Atlantic Ocean. This catastrophic event has since become one of the most well-known maritime disasters in history.

The maiden voyage of the Mayflower in 1620 is another renowned journey. The Pilgrims, seeking religious freedom, sailed from Plymouth, England, to the shores of present-day Massachusetts. This historic voyage marked the establishment of Plymouth Colony, which would later become one of the earliest successful English settlements in North America.

In the realm of aviation, the inaugural flight of the Wright brothers’ Flyer in 1903 is an iconic maiden voyage. This aircraft, designed and built by Orville and Wilbur Wright, made its historic 12-second flight in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. This event marked the birth of powered human flight and laid the foundation for modern aviation.

Another significant maiden voyage is that of the Graf Zeppelin in 1928. This German airship embarked on its inaugural transatlantic voyage, completing a round trip from Friedrichshafen, Germany, to Lakehurst, New Jersey, in the United States. The success of the Graf Zeppelin demonstrated the possibility of long-distance air travel and paved the way for future advancements in airship technology.

In recent years, the maiden voyage of the RMS Queen Mary 2 stands out as a momentous event. The Cunard Line’s ocean liner, launched in 2004, embarked on its maiden transatlantic crossing from Southampton, England, to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This luxurious vessel has since become an iconic symbol of grand ocean travel and continues to captivate passengers with its elegance and opulence.

These famous maiden voyages have left a lasting impact on the maritime and aviation industries, shaping our understanding of travel, technology, and human endurance. They serve as reminders of the triumphs and tragedies that accompany pioneering journeys into the unknown.

Challenges and Risks

Maiden voyages are not without their challenges and risks, as they mark the first time a vessel sets sail or takes flight with passengers on board. These risks can range from technical difficulties to unpredictable weather conditions and everything in between.

One of the primary challenges faced during a maiden voyage is ensuring that the newly constructed vessel is fully prepared for its journey. Despite rigorous testing during the construction process, unforeseen technical issues may arise once the ship or aircraft is put into service. These issues can range from minor inconveniences to major malfunctions, potentially impacting the operation, comfort, and safety of the passengers.

In addition to technical challenges, maiden voyages are also subject to the whims of nature. Unpredictable weather conditions, such as storms, hurricanes, or heavy fog, can pose significant risks to the vessel and its passengers. Captains and crew members must carefully navigate these conditions, relying on their experience and navigational tools to ensure a safe passage.

Another potential risk during a maiden voyage is the lack of familiarity with the vessel’s systems and processes. Crew members may still be adjusting to their roles and responsibilities, and communication between different departments may require time to optimize. This can lead to delays or confusion in operations, requiring extra vigilance and coordination from the crew to mitigate potential risks.

Furthermore, the maiden voyage may also attract unwanted attention. Pirates, thieves, or saboteurs may see the inaugural journey as an opportunity to exploit the vessel’s vulnerability or valuable cargo. Enhanced security measures and precautions are necessary to ensure the safety and protection of the vessel, passengers, and crew.

Despite these challenges and risks, meticulous planning, thorough testing, and experienced crews help minimize potential issues that may arise during a maiden voyage. The lessons learned from previous voyages and technological advancements have significantly improved the safety and reliability of modern ships and aircraft, providing reassurance to those embarking on these historic journeys.

Modern Interpretations

In today’s fast-paced world, maiden voyages have taken on new meanings and interpretations, extending beyond the traditional launch of a ship or aircraft. Modern interpretations of maiden voyages encompass a wide range of industries and activities, reflecting the spirit of exploration, innovation, and new beginnings.

One prominent example of a modern interpretation of a maiden voyage is the launch of a new technology product or digital service. Just like a ship or aircraft, these products and services undergo extensive development and testing before being introduced to the market. The release of a new smartphone, for instance, can be seen as its maiden voyage, marking the beginning of a new era in communication and technology.

Similarly, the opening of a new restaurant, hotel, or resort can be considered a maiden voyage in the hospitality industry. It represents the culmination of design, construction, and training efforts, creating an opportunity to showcase innovative concepts, exquisite cuisine, and exceptional guest experiences. This maiden voyage sets the stage for the future success and reputation of the establishment.

In addition, the concept of a maiden voyage has also been embraced by the space exploration industry. The launch of a new spacecraft or satellite symbolizes the beginning of a new chapter in our exploration of the cosmos. These missions push the boundaries of human knowledge and pave the way for further advancements in space research and travel.

Furthermore, individuals embarking on a significant life change or personal milestone can view it as their own maiden voyage. Starting a new job, relocating to a new city, or even getting married can be seen as a bold venture into uncharted territory. These personal “maiden voyages” offer the chance for growth, self-discovery, and the forging of new paths.

Through these modern interpretations, the concept of a maiden voyage continues to inspire and commemorate significant journeys, achievements, and innovations across a variety of industries. It embraces the spirit of adventure, risk-taking, and the pursuit of progress, reminding us of the boundless opportunities that await those who embark on new endeavors.

The concept of the maiden voyage holds a special place in the realm of travel and exploration. Whether it is a newly built ship, an aircraft, or a groundbreaking product, the maiden voyage symbolizes the beginning of an exciting journey into the unknown.

Throughout history, maiden voyages have played a significant role in shaping our world. They have facilitated trade, led to the discovery of new lands, and marked technological advancements. From the tragic tale of the Titanic to the pioneering flights of the Wright brothers, these voyages have left a lasting impact on our collective consciousness.

Traditions and superstitions have long been associated with maiden voyages, serving as a way to bring luck, protection, and good fortune. The challenges and risks faced during these journeys, including technical issues, unpredictable weather, and security threats, highlight the complexity and excitement that comes with venturing into new territories.

In the modern era, the interpretation of a maiden voyage has expanded to encompass various industries and personal milestones. From the launch of a new technology product or a restaurant to embarking on a new chapter in life, the spirit of the maiden voyage celebrates innovation, progress, and new beginnings.

As we reflect on the significance of maiden voyages, we are reminded of the human desire for exploration, the perseverance to overcome challenges, and the hope for a prosperous future. These voyages carry with them a sense of adventure, anticipation, and the potential to reshape our world.

So whether you find yourself embarking on your own personal maiden voyage or marveling at the inaugural journey of a newly constructed vessel, may the spirit of discovery and the thrill of the unknown guide you on your voyage of exploration and growth.

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Sinking the Unsinkable: Lessons for Leadership

Sinking the Unsinkable: Lessons for Leadership

” … my purpose is to ascertain what lessons this disaster teaches us … ” — Senator I. Raynor, May 28, 1912, during the U.S. Senate Inquiry on Titanic Disaster

On April 15, 1912, the “unsinkable” RMS Titanic sank during its maiden voyage only 2 hours and 40 minutes after hitting an iceberg.

The Titanic, April 15, 1912.

The Titanic, April 15, 1912. Photo Credit: Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division, Washington, D.C.

Investigations and inquiries led by the U.S. Senate and the British Wreck Commission indicated that a combination of overconfidence, ignored warnings, lack of communication, and lack of leadership resulted in one of the greatest disasters in maritime history.

On April 10, 1912, when she steamed out of the harbor at Southampton, England, on her maiden voyage, the Titanic was the largest moving object ever built by man. The product of five years of planning and construction, Titanic was compared to the greatest monuments of the world. Proclaimed by a leading naval engineering journal as “practically unsinkable,” she sank during her maiden voyage, taking with her the lives of 1,517 people.

What happened? The Titanic disaster hearings and related sources offer some lessons to today’s project leaders and teams.    

Compliance Is Necessary but Not Sufficient

Titanic ‘s original project plan included a configuration of forty-eight lifeboats, sufficient to accommodate all her passengers and crew. The original plans, however, were not approved by J. Bruce Ismay, chairman of White Star Line. Ismay’s arguments were based on the fact that Titanic could be in full compliance with the British Board of Trade rules with just twenty lifeboats, enough for 1,176 passengers. He reasoned that the ship was designed to be practically unsinkable, a lifeboat in itself. Additional lifeboats would unnecessarily clutter the boat deck that could be used as a promenade area.

Titanic sailed on her maiden voyage in full compliance with legislation, with 2,223 passengers and crew on board, but with a total lifeboat capacity for just 1,176 passengers.    

Sometimes Leaders Have to Rock the Boat

Titanic ‘s original lifeboat plans were conceived by Alexander Carlisle, managing director of shipbuilder Harland & Wolff. He believed that new giant ocean liners needed a larger number of lifeboats than the number required by rules set by the British Board of Trade. He presented his plans during meetings held with White Star Line but did not press his views after the client refused to accept his plans, considering this to be a client decision. Later, during the British Wreck Commission’s inquiry, he said he regretted not being forceful enough with his client and peers in defense of his call for more lifeboats.    

Near Misses and Mishaps Are Learning Opportunities

A trail of mishaps and near misses pointed to the challenges of controlling the hydrodynamic forces of the new class of ocean liners:

  • June 21, 1911: Olympic , Titanic ‘s sister ship, nearly sank the tug Hollenbeck by suction when it was caught in the ship’s backwash in New York.
  • September 20, 1911: Due to the suction effect, Olympic was involved in a serious collision with Royal Navy cruiser Hawke in Southampton, and was left with a large hole punched in her side. The Hawke suffered major damage to her bow.
  • February 24, 1912: The Olympic collided with the Grand Banks off Newfoundland, Canada, and lost a propeller blade.
  • April 10, 1912: Departing from Southampton on her maiden voyage, Titanic caused a suction effect on the SS New York . Collision was avoided by a few meters.

Near misses and mishaps are opportunities to learn and to take steps to make sure that similar problems will not happen in the future. However, instead of increasing awareness, they contributed to augmenting the level of confidence in the new class of ships in terms of maneuverability and endurance to collisions. According to author Leo Marriott, the fact that Olympic endured collisions with a warship and stayed afloat, with no casualties, despite serious flooding, appeared to vindicate the design of the Olympic-class liners and reinforcing their “unsinkable” reputation.    

Confidence Is Important; Overconfidence Is Dangerous

Report of Survey of an Emigrant Ship 04/11/1912. The Board of Trade Survey Report shows Titanic in compliance with twenty lifeboats on her maiden voyage.

Report of Survey of an Emigrant Ship 04/11/1912. The Board of Trade Survey Report shows Titanic in compliance with twenty lifeboats on her maiden voyage. Photo Credit: The National Archives, Kew, Richmond, Surrey, UK

Confidence is a leadership virtue, but the border between confidence and overconfidence is easily crossed.

Captain Edward Smith, commander of Titanic , was the most experienced captain of White Star Line. Talking about his experience during a press interview in 1907, he declared: “… I have never been in an accident of any sort worth speaking about … nor was I ever in any predicament that threatened to end in disaster of any sort … I cannot imagine any condition which would cause a ship to founder … Modern shipbuilding has gone beyond that.”

It is important to note that according to White Star Line logs, Captain Smith’s experience prior to 1911 was based on ships no larger than 24,000 tons. Titanic and her sister Olympic , the largest ships ever constructed, were 45,000-ton ships.

Captain Smith’s assumption, based on his past successful experience, was that Titanic could establish visual contact with any iceberg in front of the ship in sufficient time to maneuver and avoid it. The report of the disaster hearings would find, among other conclusions:

… Titanic rushed onward on her true course, one recognized as appropriate … yet dangerous at this season of the year, when the Labrador current may be bearing vast masses of ice across the track of ships … Ice positions so definitely reported to the Titanic just preceding the accident located ice on both sides of the track or lane which the Titanic was following … No general discussion took place among the officers; no conference was called to consider these warnings; no heed was given to them. The speed was not relaxed, the lookout was not increased, … [Smith’s] indifference to danger when other and less pretentious vessels doubled their lookout or stopped their engines … was one of the direct and contributing causes of this unnecessary tragedy … Overconfidence seems to have dulled faculties usually so alert.

Watch Out for Organizational Silos

Organizational silos — bureaucratic or cultural barriers between departments or groups — decrease incentives to collaborate, share information, or team up to pursue common objectives.

Daily Memorandum from the Hydrographic Office Reporting Titanic Disaster, 04/15/1912. The Hydrographic Office memorandum that registered on April 14 Titanic’s transmission of an iceberg message from SS Amerika reporting two large icebergs, and Titanic’s collision with an iceberg in the same area she reported.

Daily Memorandum from the Hydrographic Office Reporting Titanic Disaster, 04/15/1912. The Hydrographic Office memorandum that registered on April 14 Titanic’s transmission of an iceberg message from SS Amerika reporting two large icebergs, and Titanic’s collision with an iceberg in the same area she reported. Photo Credit: The U.S. National Archives and Records Administration

The winter of 1912 was the mildest winter in thirty years, resulting in the creation of an enormously large crop of icebergs from the Greenland glaciers. Unusual winds blew these bergs far southward, crossing established ship routes. Accordingly, on January 16, 1912, the Hydrographic Office in Washington, D.C., sent a circular letter to shipmasters, requesting them to make use of the United States naval radio stations for the purpose of reporting to the Hydrographic Office ice or other dangers to navigation, using the telegraph as a navigational aid in addition to traditional lookouts.

White Star Line had a partnership with Marconi Wireless Telegraph Company, but Marconi telegraph operators were not considered part of the crew; they were employed by the Marconi Company, not by White Star Line. They had their own cleargoals and priorities, namely to send and receive commercial paid messages for passengers. There was little established coordination or procedure, and no incentives for the radio room and the bridge to handle ice warnings cooperatively.

On April 14, 1912, the day of the disaster, Titanic received seven iceberg warnings. One of these messages was transmitted from the SS Amerika via the Titanic to the Hydrographic Office in Washington, D.C. The message reported ice along Titanic ‘s route. Titanic radio operators retransmitted the message to the Hydrographic Office but not to Titanic ‘s bridge. Later, the Hydrographic Office would mention in its annual report the irony that Titanic hit an iceberg she herself had reported: “It is a lamentable fact and a remarkable coincidence that the sinking of the Titanic was caused by an iceberg the report of which she had transmitted . Had she but heeded the one warning that she transmitted she would probably have saved herself.”

The disaster hearings also discovered that an important ice-warning message was received approximately one hour before the accident. The SS Californian , on the same route of the Titanic , stopped due to ice and tried to warn Titanic . To this the operator of the Titanic replied, “Shut up. I am busy. I am working Cape Race.” He was focused on his work, that is, sending and receiving passengers’ paid messages.

Ineffective coordination, procedures, and communication between organizations that should have worked together were contributing factors in blocking essential information that could help to prevent the disaster.    

Listen to All Levels of the Organization

No job in an organization is too small to help break the sequence of events that create a crisis. Research indicates that 90 percent of employees can perceive far in advance when projects are doomed; 71 percent say that they try to speak up about their concerns to key decision makers but do not feel they are heard; and 19 percent don’t even attempt to speak.

Titanic Disaster Hearings held at the Waldorf Astoria New York, April 19, 1912.

Titanic Disaster Hearings held at the Waldorf Astoria New York, April 19, 1912. Photo Credit: Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division, Washington, D.C.

In the case of the Titanic , the disaster hearings reports and other sources indicate that lookouts who could have prevented the disaster did not have the tools or status needed to ensure their concerns would be acted on. According to the Boston Sunday Globe of April 21, 1912, and researcher George Behe, past vice-president of the Titanic Historical Society, lookout Frederick Fleet tried to warn the bridge about the apparent presence of icebergs before the fatal iceberg hit the ship. He was not heard because, due to weather conditions, he was unsure and could not confirm his sighting as an iceberg. The bridge did not take appropriate action because they needed confirmed iceberg sightings to change course or reduce speed. The lookouts had no binoculars, however, which made confirmation difficult. The binoculars in the crow’s nest were locked; nobody knew binoculars to the lookouts. (The key to access the binoculars was later found and auctioned in the United Kingdom in 2007 for 90,000.) Finally, at 11:40 p.m., lookout Frederick Fleet confirmed sighting an iceberg, but it was too late. Titanic would hit the iceberg 37 seconds later.

During the hearings, the lookout said in his testimony that ” … if he had been supplied with binoculars, which were denied him by officers, he could have seen earlier the iceberg with which Titanic collided soon enough to get out of the way ….” Almost one hundred years later, computer simulations proved that, had Titanic lookouts seen the iceberg a few seconds earlier, the disasters could have been avoided.    

Build and Train Your Team Across Project Phases and Functions

The Titanic ‘s officers and crew were not trained as a team in the handling of lifeboats, nor were they aware of lifeboat tests done during the construction phase. Their lack of knowledge, training, and shared experience made the lifeboat situation even worse.

According to the disaster hearing reports:

“Officers and crew were strangers to one another … When the crisis came there was a state of absolute unpreparedness … Titanic ‘s crew had never acted as a team to lower the ship’s boats … Untrained and untried, and … unfamiliar with the lifeboats’ capacity … [they failed] to utilize lifeboats to their capacity … [resulting] in the needless sacrifice of several hundred lives which might otherwise have been saved.”

Preventing Future Disasters

Titanic crow’s nest key, Auction Catalog Cover, 2007.

Titanic crow’s nest key, Auction Catalog Cover, 2007. Source: Author’s collection

As a consequence of the Titanic disaster, the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea was created to apply lessons learned from the tragedy. The many factors leading to the sinking of the Titanic clearly demonstrate that crises do not just happen, they are created by a chain of events and conditions that can potentially be recognized and responded to before the damage is done. Learning from crises is important, but it is too expensive when the cost is measured in human lives as well as money. That unacceptably high cost makes it even more important to use the lessons of past disasters to avoid future ones.

In addition, we need to start learning before crises happen by investing in learning skills, processes, tools, and new thinking models for teams and for leaders at all levels in the early identification and prevention of crises. In the centenary year of the loss of the Titanic , we should remember that crisis prevention is possible but depends on leadership, alertness, cooperation, and communication at all levels of the organization.

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About the Author

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Pedro C. Ribeiro is the founder of Stratech/TheProjectOffice. A director of the Risk Management SIG and a former member of the board of PMI Educational Foundation, author of the book Licoes do Titanic sobre Riscos e Crises, and contributor to the PMI Practice Standard for Project Risk Management.

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Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

The ship was then "fitted out," which involved construction of the ship's many facilities and systems, its elaborate woodwork, and elegant decor. As the date of Titanic ’s maiden voyage approached, the completed Olympic suffered a collision and required extensive repairs, increasing the workload at Harland & Wolff, which was struggling to complete Titanic on schedule. Titanic 's maiden voyage was delayed from March 20 to April 10

About the ship

The Titanic was a massive ship—883 feet long, 92 feet wide, and displacing (or weighing) 52,310 long tons (a long ton is 2240 pounds). It was 175 feet tall from the keel to the top of the four stacks or funnels, almost 35 feet of which was below the waterline. The Titanic was taller above the water than most urban buildings of the time. There were three real smokestacks, with a fourth "dummy" stack added to increase the impression of its size and power and to vent smoke from the ship’s numerous galleys. At the time, Titanic was the largest ever movable man-made object.

While the ship itself was massive, it was also designed to be a symbol of modern safety technology. It had a double-hull of 1-inch thick steel plates and 16 water-tight compartments sealed by massive doors that could be instantly triggered by a single electric switch on the bridge, or automatically by electric water-sensors. The original design called for 32 lifeboats, but White Star Line thought the boat-deck would look cluttered and reduced the number to 16, for a total lifeboat capacity of 1,178. This capacity exceeded the current regulations requiring space for 962, even though Titanic was capable of carrying some 3,500 passengers and crew. The maiden voyage of the Titanic had more than 2,200 passengers and crew aboard. The press labeled the ship "unsinkable."

Accommodations

The accommodations aboard the Titanic were considered the most modern and luxurious on any ocean, and included electric light and heat in every room, electric elevators, a swimming pool, a squash court, a Turkish bath, a gymnasium with a mechanical horse and camel to keep riders fit, and staterooms and first-class facilities to rival the best hotels. First-class passengers could glide down a six-story, glass-domed grand staircase to enjoy the finest cuisine in the first-class dining saloon that spanned the width of the ship. For those who desired a more intimate atmosphere, the Titanic also offered the chic Palm Court and Verandah restaurants, and the festive Café Parisien. The liner had two musical ensembles, rather than the standard one, and two libraries, (first- and second-class). Even the third-class, or steerage, cabins were more luxurious than the first-class cabins on other steamships, and boasted amenities like indoor toilet facilities that some of Titanic 's emigrant passengers had not enjoyed in their own homes.

The doomed maiden voyage of the Titanic

The ship’s much-publicized maiden voyage lured British nobility, members of American society and industrialists, as well as many poor emigrants hoping to begin a new life in America. The journey began at Southampton, England, at noon on April 10, 1912. By nightfall, Titanic had stopped in Cherbourg, France, to pick up additional passengers. That evening it sailed for Queenstown, Ireland, and at 1:30 PM on April 11, the ship headed into the Atlantic Ocean toward New York City.

The weather was pleasant and clear, and the water temperature was about 55° F. The winter of 1912 had been unusually mild, and unprecedented amounts of ice had broken loose from the arctic regions. Titanic was equipped with Marconi's new wireless telegraph system and the two Marconi operators kept the wireless room running 24 hours a day. On Sunday, April 14, the fifth day at sea, Titanic received five different ice-warnings, but Captain Edward Smith was not overly concerned. The ship steamed ahead at 22 knots, and the White Star's Managing Director J. Bruce Ismay hoped to arrive in New York a day ahead of schedule.

On the night of April 14, 1912, wireless operator Jack Phillips was busy sending passenger's messages to Cape Race, Newfoundland, to be relayed inland to friends and relatives. He received a sixth ice-warning that night, but didn't realize how close Titanic was to the position of the warning, and the message never reached Captain Smith or the officer on the bridge.

By all accounts, the night was uncommonly clear and dark, moonless but faintly glowing with a sky full of stars. The sea was unusually calm and flat, "like glass" according to many survivors. The lack of waves made it even more difficult to spot icebergs, since there was no telltale white water breaking at their edges.

At 11:40 p.m. lookout Fred Fleet in the crow's nest spotted an iceberg dead ahead. He notified the bridge, and First Officer William Murdoch ordered the ship turned hard to port. He signaled the engine room to reverse direction, full astern. The ship turned slightly, but it was too large, was moving too fast, and the iceberg was too close. Just seconds later, one of the greatest maritime disasters in history began unfolding. Within hours, over 1500 lives were lost. What really happened to "the unsinkable" Titanic remained a mystery—until September 1, 1985 when a joint American and French team would discover it.

Learn about the 1985 Discovery .

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maiden voyage noun

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What does the noun maiden voyage mean?

There is one meaning in OED's entry for the noun maiden voyage . See ‘Meaning & use’ for definition, usage, and quotation evidence.

How common is the noun maiden voyage ?

Where does the noun maiden voyage come from.

Earliest known use

The earliest known use of the noun maiden voyage is in the 1820s.

OED's earliest evidence for maiden voyage is from 1823, in European Magazine .

maiden voyage is formed within English, by compounding.

Etymons: maiden n. & adj. , voyage n.

Nearby entries

  • maiden-servant, n. 1533–1740
  • maidenship, n. 1602–
  • maiden's honesty, n. 1691–
  • maiden-skate, n. a1795–
  • maidens' light, n. 1547–8
  • maidens' milk, n. ?c1450
  • maiden speech, n. 1702–
  • maiden's water, n. 1975–
  • maiden's wreath, n. 1893–
  • maiden-thought, n. 1818–
  • maiden voyage, n. 1823–
  • maiden-wax, n. 1726
  • maidenweed, n. a1325–1718
  • maiden-widowed, adj. 1599
  • maideux, int. c1450–1500
  • maid face, n. c1450
  • maid-faced, adj. 1610
  • maid-fish, n. 1665–1810
  • maidhead, n. a1393–1621
  • maidhood, n. a1200–
  • maidish, adj. 1822–

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Meaning & use

Entry history for maiden voyage, n..

Originally published as part of the entry for maiden, n. & adj.

maiden, n. & adj. was revised in June 2000.

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OED First Edition (1904)

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  • View maiden, n. and a. in OED Second Edition

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Factsheet for maiden voyage, n., browse entry.

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Definition of maiden adjective from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

  • a maiden flight/voyage (= the first journey made by a plane/ship)
  • a maiden speech (= the first speech made by an MP in the parliaments of some countries)

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maiden voyage project meaning

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maiden voyage sailing lessons

Puzzle’s maiden voyage: a memorable sail amidst the pandemic

Picture the salty sea air filling your lungs, the gentle sway of a ship beneath your feet, and the endless expanse of the Mediterranean Sea stretching out before you. This was the exhilarating scene as we embarked on our maiden voyage aboard our beloved sailing ship, Puzzle.

A maiden voyage , for those unfamiliar with the term, is a ship’s very first adventure on open waters. It’s a significant event, a baptism of sorts, marking the transition from a vessel being merely a vessel to becoming a seasoned sea traveler. For us, this maiden trip was more than just a nautical term. It represented the beginning of a dream, the first chapter in our story of exploration and (self) discovery at sea.

Our tale is one of adventure and learning, of facing challenges and overcoming them. It’s a story that takes place on the high seas, but also within the confines of a global pandemic. It’s about the thrill of setting sail for the first time, the lessons we learned along the way, and the resilience we discovered within ourselves as the world around us changed.

In the lines that follow, we’ll share with you some of the exhilarating highs and humbling lows of our journey. We’ll take you through our initial sailing lessons, the unexpected challenges we faced, and the additional training we undertook to better navigate our way. We’ll recount the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our plans and how we adapted to continue our voyage.

Join us as we set sail on this journey! Feel the wind in your hair, hear the creak of the lines, and taste the salt on your lips. For the duration of this voyage, this story is yours, too. Welcome to our maiden voyage on Puzzle!

sailboat puzzle maiden voyage mathieu and mirela letailleur

Our maiden voyage

As the sun rose on the 7 th of March, we found ourselves standing on the deck of Puzzle, our newly acquired sailing ship. Puzzle was no ordinary vessel. She was an old ship, with a history as rich as the sea itself. Her hull bore a few marks from her previous voyages, and her sails, though weathered, held the promise of many more to come. As we prepared for our maiden voyage, the excitement was palpable. The air was thick with anticipation, and the sea, as if sharing our enthusiasm, sparkled under the afternoon sun.

Our home port, Santa Lucia Marina, a quaint little harbor nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean, was bustling with activity. The term home port refers to the port where a ship is based, a place that offers shelter after long voyages and serves as a starting point for new adventures. Though on paper it was the Port of Toulon, we were actually based in Santa Lucia in Saint-Raphaël, which for us, was more than just a geographical location. It was a place that held our dreams and aspirations, a place that marked the beginning of our journey.

As we untied the lines and set Puzzle free, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe. Here we were, two dreamers embarking on their first voyage, sailing into the unknown on an old ship that was new to us. The sea ahead was vast and uncharted, but we were ready. We had prepared for this moment, and now it was time to turn our dreams into reality.

As Puzzle glided out of the home port, we took a moment to take it all in. The sight of the harbor slowly receding into the distance, the sound of the waves crashing against the hull, the feel of the wind in our hair – it was all so surreal. This was it. Our maiden voyage had begun, and there was no turning back. Little did we know, this was just the beginning of an adventure that would change our lives forever.

The start was a flurry of motion. Mathieu took the helm, his hands steady on the wheel as I untied the lines. The sails, a canvas of white against the azure sky, began to billow outwards, filling with the wind as if they were lungs drawing in a deep breath. It was a sight to behold, the sails swelling with the sea breeze, their edges fluttering slightly as if quivering with the same excitement that coursed through our veins.

The wind was our ally, the invisible force propelling us forward on our maiden voyage. It whispered through the rigging, a symphony of soft rustles and high-pitched whistles that became the soundtrack of our journey. The ship responded to the wind’s call, leaning into it as we began to pick up speed, the water around us churning into a white froth as we cut through the waves.

Behind us, our home port began to recede, its familiar silhouette growing smaller with each passing moment. The boats bobbing gently in their berths and the quaint little harbor office – they all became distant specks on the horizon, a reminder of the safe haven we were leaving behind. It was a bittersweet moment, a mix of the exhilaration of embarking on our journey and the poignant farewell to the comfort of familiarity.

But there was no room for doubt or fear. As the sails billowed in the wind and our home port faded into the distance, we knew we were on the path we were meant to tread. The open sea awaited us, and with it, the promise of an unforgettable maiden voyage.

As we ventured further into the sea, we began to encounter our first set of challenges. When we switched and I took the helm, I felt that the rudder was stiff, resisting my attempts to steer the ship. A screeching noise filled the air, grating on my nerves. Mathieu dismissed it as a figment of my imagination, but I couldn’t shake off the feeling that something was amiss.

Our maiden voyage was proving to be a baptism by fire. Strong gusts of wind rocked the ship, causing it to list dangerously, with the board touching the waterline and the fenders we had raised getting dragged by the sea once again along the boat. I found myself slipping from my seat at the helm, my heart pounding as I clung to the wheel. But Mathieu was quick to react, taking over the helm and steering us back to safety. It was a stark reminder of the power of the sea and the respect it commanded.

The source of the screeching noise soon became apparent. The steering wheel hadn’t been fully unlocked, causing it to squeak due to friction. It was a minor oversight, but one that served as a valuable lesson. Sea trials, or test runs, are crucial for identifying and addressing such issues. They help ensure the ship’s seaworthiness and the crew’s readiness, lessons we took to heart from our maiden trip.

Docking back at the port presented another set of challenges. Crosswinds pushed our ship into awkward positions, making navigation difficult. And we quickly realized why Mr. Isnar, the previous owner, had refrained from doing the docking himself during our marine survey . We struggled to maneuver Puzzle back into her berth, a task made more challenging by the neighboring sailboat encroaching on our allotted space and another sailboat being docked with the bow. This sailboat’s stern was not held tightly by the mooring and with every gust, it pushed our neighbor even more over our place. (This is also the cause behind our exploded fender.)

It was a grueling 40 minutes in Santa Lucia. While trying to dock, we encountered difficulties maneuvering our sailboat in reverse. As we waited for proper positioning, the wind caused us to sway and come dangerously close to other boats. In my efforts to prevent collisions and protect our own vessel while Mathieu was at the helm, I sustained multiple bruises on my arms because I used a boat hook and one hand to assist in pushing back when we were moving slowly.

Despite having onlookers around, none of them offered us any assistance. Our hopes were raised when we spotted an inflatable boat approaching, but unfortunately, it turned out to be just a passerby who circled around us and continued on their way. After some time, we finally managed to secure the sailboat back in its berth.

We collapsed on one of the cockpit benches, each with a Radler in hand, lost in our own thoughts about the situation we found ourselves in. Our maiden voyage had been a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with highs and lows. But it had also been a learning experience, one that had taught us the importance of preparation and adaptability. We were wondering if we had been overconfident, if we had made a mistake by buying a boat. What would we do? Should we sell it after only one short trip?

As we sat in the cockpit of Puzzle, sipping our lemony beers, we noticed a smaller sailing ship in the harbor. It was a charming old ship, not unlike our own, and it was being expertly maneuvered by two men. We watched with interest as one of them, clearly an experienced sailor, guided the other through the intricate dance of docking a sailboat. Their movements were fluid and confident, a stark contrast to our own struggles earlier.

We watched them, hoping to glean some wisdom from their actions, but they soon disappeared from our view. Disappointed, we finished our drinks and began gathering our belongings. The day was drawing to a close, and we had a house to clean and a long drive back to Bagnols-en-Forêt ahead of us.

As we walked down our pontoon towards the parking lot, we spotted the same sailboat from earlier. The two men were still on board, their faces lit by the soft glow of the setting sun. We approached them, introducing ourselves and expressing our admiration for their skillful handling of the sailboat.

We learned that they were father and son and that the father had recently purchased the sailboat second-hand. The son, Nicolas, was a professional skipper, which explained their smooth sailing earlier. We shared a bit about our own adventures with Puzzle and our maiden voyage, and to our surprise, Nicolas offered to give us some sailing lessons.

His offer was like a beacon of hope, a ray of light at the end of a challenging day. We eagerly agreed, arranging for two lessons – one at sea and another focused on port maneuvers. As we left the harbor that day, our hearts were lighter. Despite the challenges of our maiden voyage, we felt a renewed sense of hope and determination. We were ready to learn and grow, ready to face whatever the sea had in store for us and continue to live our dream of Med sailing .

sailing lessons pandemic

The unexpected turn of events

Just as we were beginning to find our sea legs, the world around us took an unexpected turn. News of the novel virus, COVID-19, began to dominate the airwaves. The pandemic was spreading rapidly, turning bustling cities into ghost towns and transforming our Mediterranean cruise into a voyage through uncharted waters.

Countries began to close their borders, and lockdowns were implemented in an attempt to curb the spread of the virus. The world was changing, and we found ourselves in the midst of it all, aboard Puzzle, our sailing ship. It was a surreal experience, to say the least. One moment, we were planning our world cruise, mapping out routes, and dreaming of exotic destinations. Next, we were grappling with the reality of a global pandemic and the uncertainty it brought with it.

But amidst the chaos and confusion, we made a decision to continue our voyage and to keep sailing to Greece despite the storm. We were not naïve. We understood the risks and the challenges that lay ahead. But we also knew that we had each other and Puzzle, our trusty sailing ship. We had already weathered our maiden voyage, faced our fears, and learned some valuable lessons. And after some refresher sailing lessons with Nicolas, we would be ready to take on whatever the sea – and the world – had in store for us.

In the face of adversity, we chose to sail on. Because sometimes, the best way to weather a storm is to keep moving forward, to keep exploring, to keep living. And that’s exactly what we intended to do.

sailing lessons on rough sea

Additional sailing lessons on Puzzle

In the wake of our maiden voyage, we realized that there was still much to learn about sailing. Our encounter with Nicolas, the professional skipper, had opened our eyes to the importance of mastering port maneuvers and understanding the nuances of our sailing ship, Puzzle. So, we decided to take additional sailing lessons, a decision that would prove to be invaluable in our journey.

Our first lesson with Nicolas was spent out at sea. The sea was restless that day, its surface a tumultuous dance of waves whipped up by the wind. The conditions were challenging, but they provided the perfect backdrop for a lesson in sailing. As we sailed along the coast, Nicolas guided us through the process of dropping anchor for the first time – a maneuver we had never practiced during our sailing lessons at the Black Sea.

The waves were rougher than we had anticipated, and as I went to the bow and tried to follow Nicolas’s instructions, I found myself momentarily suspended in the air, my hands clutching the genoa’s line, my legs gripping the edge of the balcony, and my bottom hanging over the sideboard!

Nicolas and Mathieu rushed to my aid, but I assured them that I was alright. I just needed a moment to regain my footing, and soon, I was back on the boat. It was a startling experience, but it was also a valuable lesson in the unpredictability of the sea and the importance of staying calm under pressure.

After our adventure at sea, we headed back to the port. Nicolas, eager to teach us how to dock Puzzle in our spot, took the helm. However, even he struggled with the task, quickly realizing that the layout of the pontoon and our specific spot made docking extremely difficult, even in light winds. Seeing a professional skipper face the same challenges we had was both comforting and enlightening. It made us realize that we were not alone in our struggles, and it gave us a newfound appreciation for the complexities of sailing.

Our second lesson with Nicolas was focused on port maneuvers. We started by filling up the gas tank in the other basin of Santa Lucia Marina, a task that seemed simple in comparison to what was to come. As we navigated through the harbor, Nicolas guided us, helping us understand the perfect speed and movements for the docking Puzzle. It was a challenging lesson, but by the end of it, we had a better grasp of how to handle our sailing ship.

In the end, we discovered that we needed to reverse at full speed to maintain proper maneuverability with Puzzle. Therefore, every time we had to dock, we had to ensure that we were doing everything correctly. This was important because when reversing at full speed, inertia could cause us significant problems.

These additional sailing lessons were more than just an opportunity to improve our sailing skills. They were a testament to our determination to continue our world cruise, to face the challenges head-on, and to learn and grow from each experience. And as we mastered the art of port maneuvers, we felt more confident, more prepared for whatever our voyage had in store for us.

The impact of the pandemic on our cruise

The COVID-19 pandemic, a global crisis that swept across the world in 2020, had a profound impact on our Mediterranean cruise. As countries went into lockdown and borders closed, our world cruise took an unexpected turn.

On March 9, 2020, Italy went into lockdown. The news hit us like a wave, disrupting our plans and casting a shadow of uncertainty over our voyage. We immediately thought of sailing to Corsica, hoping to wait out the lockdown there until Italy’s borders reopened. However, a few hours later, we learned that Corsica was closing schools and nursing homes, among other things. The situation was escalating quickly, and we had to make a decision.

homemade mucenici grandma recipe

We decided to go sailing in Spain , despite the rapidly changing situation. The area was turning red fast, indicating a high level of COVID-19 cases, but we were undeterred. Even if the Spanish border closed, we reasoned, we could leisurely discover the coast of France. We ended that day with a sense of optimism, savoring the warmth and sweetness of my homemade mucenici , a traditional Romanian baked treat soaked in honey and covered in walnuts, made only on March 9, a day when 40 saints are celebrated.

The next day, schools closed in France. We went to the shops to buy supplies for ourselves and Mathieu’s family. To our surprise, we still found toilet paper and pasta. However, the rice was almost gone.

restaurant le bistrot bagnols en foret food

At my sister-in-law’s urging, we went out with several friends to have dinner at Le Bistrot , one of our village’s restaurants, not knowing when we would get to do that again. Her words proved to be prophetic: the next day, all non-essential retailers in France were ordered to close.

On March 11, France moved to alert level 3 for the CDC. For us, this meant that since we were already in France at the time of the alert, our travel and medical insurance would only cover us for 10 days for evacuation, as long as we were traveling to a non-level 3 country.

The pandemic had turned our maiden voyage into an unprecedented adventure. We faced challenges and uncertainties, but we also discovered our resilience and adaptability. Despite the difficulties, we decided to continue our voyage, navigating not just the sea but also the rapidly changing global situation. Our experiences during the pandemic, our struggles and triumphs, became an integral part of our world cruise, a testament to our determination to keep sailing, no matter what.

Red sky at night, sailors delight.

Uncharted waters: a maiden voyage amidst a global pandemic

As we reflect on our maiden voyage, we can’t help but marvel at the journey we’ve embarked upon. What started as an exciting adventure on our sailing ship Puzzle, quickly turned into a lesson in resilience and adaptability in the face of the unexpected. The COVID-19 pandemic, an unforeseen global crisis, would become an integral part of our voyage, shaping our experiences and teaching us invaluable lessons.

Our maiden voyage taught us more than just how to sail. It taught us the importance of being prepared for the unexpected. We learned that a world cruise is not just about navigating the sea, but also about navigating unforeseen circumstances and rapidly changing situations. The pandemic, while a significant challenge, also presented an opportunity for us to demonstrate our resilience and adaptability.

We learned that even in the face of a global crisis, it’s possible to continue our journey, adapt to new circumstances, and find joy and adventure in the unexpected. We learned that a maiden voyage is not just a journey across the sea, but also a journey of personal growth and discovery.

For those thinking about embarking on their maiden voyage, we have one piece of advice: be prepared for the unexpected. A maiden voyage is an adventure, filled with excitement and challenges. But it’s also an opportunity to learn, grow, and discover new things about yourself and the world around you.

Set sail! Embark on your maiden voyage. Navigate the uncharted waters. And remember, no matter what challenges you face, keep sailing! The sea may be vast and unpredictable, but it’s also full of possibilities and adventures waiting to be discovered.

About the author

Mirela Letailleur The Travel Bunny

Mirela Letailleur , a seasoned travel blogger hailing from the vibrant landscapes of Romania, now calls the picturesque South of France her home. With her extensive experience in navigating the diverse terrains of Europe, she has become a trusted voice in the travel community. Her blog, The Travel Bunny , is a treasure trove of insights and guides, offering affordable and enriching travel experiences across Europe. Mirela’s unique approach to travel, coupled with her knack for problem-solving, has made her a go-to resource for travelers seeking an authentic and budget-friendly journey.

But Mirela’s expertise doesn’t stop at land-based adventures. She’s also an experienced sailor, having embarked on a maiden voyage across the Mediterranean and taken sailing lessons in both France and Romania. Her firsthand experiences, from sailing lessons to navigating the unexpected challenges of a global pandemic at sea, make her an invaluable guide for those looking to embark on their own sailing adventures. Whether you’re a wannabe coffee guru or an aspiring sailor, Mirela Letailleur’s expert advice and engaging storytelling will make your travel and sailing dreams a reality.

Read more about Mirela Letailleur

After joining us on our maiden voyage, check out these travel blog posts Our sailboat search in France: finding the right sailboat Used boat inventory discovery before sailing the Mediterranean Sea Croatia Sailing Vacation Tips & 3 Best Sailing Destinations

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Maiden is a Global Ambassador for the Empowerment of Girls through Education

maiden voyage project meaning

Tracy Edwards, MBE

Founder of The Maiden Factor Foundation

“ We were told we couldn’t do it, but we showed how sailing is a level playing field. Now, I’m making it my mission to advocate for girls’ education around the world ”

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Our Mission

The Maiden Factor Foundation works with, raises funds for and supports communities to enable girls into education and empower and support them to remain throughout their teenage years to reach their full potential and create better futures for all

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A world where every girl has access to 12 years of quality education; empowering them to choose their future and fulfil their dreams

What we're doing

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Maiden inspires women and girls all over the world and raises funds for girls’ educational programmes around the world

Maiden's world tour took the crew to countries across the globe, visiting schools, supporting charities and inspiring thousands. this september, she will be taking on a new adventure: the ocean globe race 2023..

Over 30 years since changing the world in the 89/90 Whitbread, Maiden is sailing the seas with an all-female crew once again

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From Southampton to Senegal, catch up on Maiden's World Tour journey here.

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The inspirational documentary of Maiden against all odds.

Get Involved

More than 130 million girls are out of school today

Maiden raises funds for girls’ educational programmes around the world

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  1. Maiden Voyage: What Does the Popular Idiom "Maiden Voyage" Mean? • 7ESL

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  2. The Freewinds 30th Anniversary Maiden Voyage Celebration Jubilantly

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  3. What is a Maiden Voyage?

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  4. Book Review: Maiden Voyage. What Does it Mean to Circumnavigate 'Alone?'

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  5. Maiden voyage Meaning

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  6. Book Review: Maiden Voyage. What Does it Mean to Circumnavigate 'Alone?'

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VIDEO

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COMMENTS

  1. MAIDEN VOYAGE definition

    MAIDEN VOYAGE meaning: 1. the first journey made by a ship or spacecraft: 2. the first journey made by a ship or…. Learn more.

  2. MAIDEN VOYAGE

    MAIDEN VOYAGE definition: 1. the first journey made by a ship or spacecraft: 2. the first journey made by a ship or…. Learn more.

  3. Maiden voyage

    Definition of maiden voyage in the Idioms Dictionary. maiden voyage phrase. What does maiden voyage expression mean? Definitions by the largest Idiom Dictionary. ... While he would give nothing away about the extent of his investment in the project, Palmer said that he has received offers of up to USD1m per ticket for passage on the ship's ...

  4. MAIDEN VOYAGE Definition & Usage Examples

    Maiden voyage definition: . See examples of MAIDEN VOYAGE used in a sentence.

  5. Maiden Voyage: What Does the Popular Idiom "Maiden Voyage" Mean?

    Maiden Voyage Meaning. The phrase "maiden voyage" means the first trip out to sea, to the sky or over-the-road that is taken by a ship, aircraft or other moving vehicles for its specified purpose. It can also be used as a way to describe someone's first experience doing something.

  6. maiden voyage noun

    Definition of maiden voyage noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

  7. A maiden voyage

    Definition of a maiden voyage in the Idioms Dictionary. a maiden voyage phrase. What does a maiden voyage expression mean? Definitions by the largest Idiom Dictionary. ... a make work project; a make-work project; a mallet-head; a mallethead; a mama put; a mama's boy; a MAMIL; A Man About Town; a man after (one's) own heart;

  8. What is a Maiden Voyage?

    The term maiden voyage refers to the first expedition made by a vessel after its performance has been tested. The term has also been used to mean a person's first time doing something. Before a ship's maiden voyage, a bottle of alcohol (usually champagne) is broken over the ship's bow for good luck. The history associated with maiden ...

  9. maiden voyage

    Noun [ edit] maiden voyage (plural maiden voyages) ( nautical) The first trip of a vessel in its intended duty. The Titanic hit an iceberg and sank on her maiden voyage. 1998, Cynthia Bass, Maiden Voyage ‎ [1], Random House Publishing Group, →ISBN: For one thing, it was a maiden voyage, which always meant both passengers and staff were a ...

  10. MAIDEN VOYAGE definition and meaning

    Nautical the first voyage of a vessel.... Click for English pronunciations, examples sentences, video.

  11. What Are Maiden and Inaugural Voyages?

    A maiden voyage generally refers to a first or the first. A ship leaving port with paying passengers for the first time is taking it's maiden voyage. If that voyage is say, from France to the US, then it's also its maiden transatlantic voyage. After that trip, perhaps it's going to St Lucia for its maiden Southern Caribbean voyage.

  12. What Does Maiden Voyage Mean

    Definition of Maiden Voyage. A maiden voyage is the first journey undertaken by a newly constructed ship or aircraft, marking its inaugural voyage with passengers or cargo. ... It represents the moment when the vessel transitions from being a mere construction project to a fully functional mode of transportation. The maiden voyage is an ...

  13. Sinking the Unsinkable: Lessons for Leadership

    On April 15, 1912, the "unsinkable" RMS Titanic sank during its maiden voyage only 2 hours and 40 minutes after hitting an iceberg. The Titanic, April 15, 1912. Investigations and inquiries led by the U.S. Senate and the British Wreck Commission indicated that a combination of overconfidence, ignored warnings, lack of communication, and ...

  14. History of RMS Titanic

    The maiden voyage of the Titanic had more than 2,200 passengers and crew aboard. The press labeled the ship "unsinkable." Accommodations. The accommodations aboard the Titanic were considered the most modern and luxurious on any ocean, and included electric light and heat in every room, electric elevators, a swimming pool, a squash court, a ...

  15. maiden voyage, n. meanings, etymology and more

    What does the noun maiden voyage mean? There is one meaning in OED's entry for the noun maiden voyage. See 'Meaning & use' for definition, usage, and quotation evidence. See meaning & use. How common is the noun maiden voyage? About 0.1 occurrences per million words in modern written English . 1830: 0.0018: 1840: 0.0016: 1850: 0.0014: 1860:

  16. maiden adjective

    Definition of maiden adjective from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. ... being the first of its kind. a maiden flight/voyage (= the first journey made by a plane/ship) a maiden speech (= the first speech made by an MP in the parliaments of some countries) Oxford Collocations Dictionary Maiden is used with these nouns: aunt;

  17. Titanic

    Titanic, British luxury passenger liner that sank on April 14-15, 1912, during its maiden voyage, en route to New York City from Southampton, England, killing about 1,500 people. One of the most famous tragedies in modern history, it inspired numerous works of art and has been the subject of much scholarship.

  18. Maiden Voyage: Powerful Lessons From Our First Sailing Trip

    A maiden voyage, for those unfamiliar with the term, is a ship's very first adventure on open waters. It's a significant event, a baptism of sorts, marking the transition from a vessel being merely a vessel to becoming a seasoned sea traveler. For us, this maiden trip was more than just a nautical term.

  19. SS Great Britain

    The SS Great Britain was a steam-powered ship designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel (1806-1859) which sailed on its maiden voyage from Liverpool to New York in May 1845. It was the largest passenger ship in the world at the time and showed that giant metal steamships were faster and more energy-efficient than smaller wooden vessels.. Brunel & Steamships. One of the problems of the early ships ...

  20. The Meaning Behind The Song: Maiden Voyage by Carl Anderson

    The lyrics of "Maiden Voyage" beautifully illustrate the excitement and anticipation associated with setting sail on a new journey. The song encourages the listener to embrace the unknown and take a leap of faith into the uncharted waters of love. Through vivid imagery, the lyrics convey a sense of discovery and personal growth.

  21. The Maiden Factor

    Maiden's World Tour took the crew to countries across the globe, visiting schools, supporting charities and inspiring thousands. This September, she will be taking on a new adventure: the Ocean Globe Race 2023. Over 30 years since changing the world in the 89/90 Whitbread, Maiden is sailing the seas with an all-female crew once again.

  22. MAIDEN VOYAGE Definition & Usage Examples

    Maiden voyage definition: . See examples of MAIDEN VOYAGE used in a sentence.

  23. Timeline and Facts About the Titanic

    Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc./Patrick O'Neill Riley. On April 10, 1912, the RMS Titanic embarked on its maiden voyage, sailing from Southampton, England, to New York City. Four days later the luxury liner struck an iceberg, and early the next day it sank, killing some 1,500 people. The tragedy captured the world's imagination and made the Titanic an enduring legend.