SS Nomadic: Titanic's Tender Ship
The last White Star Line vessel and Titanic's tender ship—a floating museum of maritime elegance and history.
Step aboard the SS Nomadic, the last surviving White Star Line vessel and the tender ship that ferried Titanic's passengers to their fateful voyage. Built in 1911 at Belfast's Harland & Wolff shipyard alongside the Titanic itself, this beautifully restored 70-meter ship offers an intimate glimpse into early 20th-century maritime luxury. Explore four decks featuring original fixtures, restored first and second-class lounges, crew quarters, and interactive exhibits that bring the golden age of ocean travel to life. Located at Hamilton Dock in Belfast's Titanic Quarter, the Nomadic serves as a living museum and tangible connection to one of history's most iconic ships.
A brief summary to SS Nomadic
- Hamilton Dock, Queens Rd, Belfast, Belfast, BT3 9DT, GB
- +442890766386
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-4 pm
- Thursday 11 am-4 pm
- Friday 11 am-4 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Your SS Nomadic ticket is included with Titanic Belfast admission, so plan to visit both attractions to maximize your experience. Budget 30-60 minutes for the ship and 2-5 hours for the complete Titanic experience.
- Visit early in the day or on weekdays to avoid crowds. Early afternoon on weekdays often means you'll have entire sections of the ship to yourself, allowing for a more immersive experience.
- While most areas are accessible, the Crew Space and Flying Bridge Deck can only be reached by stairs. Plan your route accordingly if you have mobility concerns.
- Use the multimedia guides or join a guided walking tour to gain deeper insights into the ship's history, the famous passengers who boarded here, and the restoration efforts that brought her back to life.
- The Nomadic sits beside the original 1867 caisson gate from the dry dock where she was built—a remarkable piece of maritime heritage worth photographing as part of your visit to the Titanic Quarter.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport from Belfast City Centre
From Belfast City Centre, take the Metro bus service (routes 26 or 26A) heading toward the Titanic Quarter. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Alight at the Titanic Quarter stop near Hamilton Dock. The fare is approximately £2.00 for a single journey. Alternatively, the Glider rapid transit service (G2 route) connects the city centre to the Titanic Quarter in about 12-15 minutes for £2.00.
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Walking from Belfast City Centre
From Belfast City Hall, it is approximately 2 kilometers to SS Nomadic at Hamilton Dock. The walk takes 20-30 minutes and follows a pleasant route along the River Lagan waterfront. The path is mostly flat and well-signposted, making it accessible for most fitness levels. This scenic walk passes through the Titanic Quarter and offers views of the historic Harland & Wolff cranes.
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Car with Parking
If arriving by car, drive to Hamilton Dock in the Titanic Quarter. The Titanic Belfast car park is adjacent to SS Nomadic and offers over 500 underground parking spaces. Parking costs approximately £5.00 for up to 2 hours or £8.00 for up to 4 hours. The location is approximately 110 kilometers from Derry and 170 kilometers from Dublin. SS Nomadic is less than 200 meters from the Titanic Belfast museum entrance.
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Bicycle via Belfast Bikes Scheme
Rent a bicycle through the Belfast Bikes Scheme, which has docking stations throughout the city. The ride to SS Nomadic at Hamilton Dock takes approximately 15-20 minutes from the city centre. A docking station is located just outside SS Nomadic, making this an eco-friendly and convenient option. Daily passes cost approximately £5.00.
SS Nomadic location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about SS Nomadic
A Ship Built for Greatness
The SS Nomadic was launched in April 1911 from the legendary Harland & Wolff shipyard in Belfast, the same facility that constructed the RMS Titanic. Designed by Thomas Andrews—the same visionary architect who created the Titanic—the Nomadic was built using identical luxurious finishes and craftsmanship. At 70 meters long and 11 meters wide, she was designed to be exactly one quarter the size of her famous counterpart, earning her the affectionate nickname "mini-Titanic." Powered by coal boilers and steam engines, the vessel achieved a service speed of 12 knots and could accommodate up to 1,000 passengers across four decks plus a hold. Her purpose was specialized: to serve as a tender ship, ferrying first and second-class passengers from the shallow port at Cherbourg, France, out to the great ocean liners that were too large to dock directly.The Fateful Connection to Titanic
On April 10, 1912, the SS Nomadic completed her most historically significant task. She carried 274 passengers—including the wealthy industrialist Benjamin Guggenheim and Colonel John Jacob Astor IV, one of the richest men in the world—from Cherbourg out to the Titanic as it waited in deeper waters. These passengers, blissfully unaware of the tragedy that awaited them, boarded the "ship of dreams" with excitement and anticipation. Four days later, after striking an iceberg in the North Atlantic, the Titanic sank, taking 1,503 crew and passengers with her. The Nomadic had been the last ship to serve the Titanic, and those three hours on her decks would forever define her place in maritime history. She became the sole surviving connection to the White Star Line and the only living witness to the passengers who boarded that ill-fated voyage.A Century of Service and Survival
While Titanic's story ended in tragedy, the Nomadic's journey continued for more than a century. During World War One, she served with distinction, and in June 1918, her crew performed an extraordinary act of heroism by hauling a naval mine, its anchor, and connecting chain from the water before defusing the explosive device on deck—an action that could have destroyed the ship instantly. The crew's bravery was rewarded with an extra ration of wine by the commandant of the Saint Nazaire waterfront. Throughout the 1920s and beyond, the Nomadic continued her tender duties, ferrying passengers to the great transatlantic liners. She later served in World War Two and eventually became a floating restaurant in Paris before her engines and boilers were removed in 1974. The ship faced the scrapyard multiple times, coming perilously close to being dismantled for parts.Rescue and Restoration
After nearly 95 years away from her birthplace, the SS Nomadic was rescued from a breakers yard in Le Havre, France, in 2006. She was transported back to Belfast aboard a submersible barge in a dramatic homecoming that captured the hearts of the city. The restoration became a true labor of love, managed by the Nomadic Charitable Trust, with thousands of hours of meticulous craftsmanship devoted to returning her to her 1911 glory. The ship was brought back to Hamilton Dock—the very location where her rudder and propeller had been fitted in the summer of 1911—making her restoration complete in both spirit and geography. Today, the Nomadic sits beside the original caisson gate, a rusty structure dating from 1867 that once blocked water from entering the dry dock, a remarkable piece of maritime heritage in its own right.Walking Through History
Visitors to the SS Nomadic can walk the same decks as Titanic's passengers, experiencing the stark contrast between classes. The restored first-class lounge showcases intricate woodwork and period furnishings that reflect the opulence of early 20th-century ocean travel. The second-class areas offer a glimpse into more modest accommodations, while the cramped crew quarters reveal the reality of life below decks. Interactive displays and audio-visual presentations bring the ship's history to life, introducing visitors to characters from the Nomadic's past and offering insights into the experiences of passengers and crew. Visitors can stand at the ship's wheel, explore the Captain's quarters, and meet digital characters like Pierre, the barman, who share stories of the ship's varied career. The experience is enhanced by multimedia guides and optional guided walking tours that provide deeper context and anecdotes about the vessel and her passengers.A Living Monument to Maritime Heritage
The SS Nomadic holds a unique place in Belfast's rich maritime heritage. As the only remaining White Star Line vessel and a member of the core collection on the National Historic Ships register, she stands as a tangible link to one of the most famous ships in history. Located in the Titanic Quarter adjacent to the Titanic Belfast exhibition centre, the Nomadic complements the broader story of Belfast's shipbuilding legacy. The city's legendary Harland & Wolff shipyard, whose iconic Samson and Goliath cranes still dominate the skyline, built not only the Nomadic and Titanic but also the Olympic and Britannic. The Nomadic's presence in Belfast represents both the extraordinary engineering prowess of early 20th-century shipbuilders and the poignant human stories connected to the age of great ocean liners.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Titanic Hotel Belfast
0.2 km
Luxury in the heart of Titanic history: nautical-themed elegance amid Belfast's shipbuilding legacy.
Slipways
0.3 km
Step onto the historic Slipways where Titanic was born, amid Belfast’s maritime legacy and stunning waterfront vistas.
The Samson & Goliath Cranes
0.4 km
Towering yellow giants of Belfast’s shipbuilding past, Samson and Goliath cranes dominate the skyline as enduring symbols of industrial heritage.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
0.9 km
A 1960s road bridge over the River Lagan, connecting central Belfast with the Titanic Quarter and offering quiet riverside views from its pedestrian walkways.
Beacon of Hope
1.0 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Albert Memorial Clock
1.0 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Numbers' Wall
1.1 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
2-6 Waring St
1.2 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Alec the Goose
1.4 km
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Castle Buildings
1.4 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Clifton House
1.4 km
Explore the historical significance and architectural elegance of Clifton House, a must-see landmark in Belfast that offers a glimpse into the city's vibrant heritage.
Queen's Arcade
1.5 km
Belfast's Victorian gem: restored elegance meets luxury shopping in a historic arcade promenade.
Treasure Trails
1.6 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
The Titanic Memorial Garden
1.6 km
Discover the Titanic Memorial Garden in Belfast, a serene park dedicated to the memory of the Titanic tragedy, offering beauty and reflection in the heart of the city.
Clifton Street Graveyard
1.6 km
Two centuries of Belfast's history etched in stone—where Republicans, Unionists, and ordinary citizens rest side by side.
Unmissable attractions to see
Maritime Mile
0.1 km
Explore Belfast’s historic waterfront trail, where maritime heritage meets vibrant culture and iconic landmarks along the Maritime Mile.
Street Food
0.2 km
Discover vibrant fast-food flavors in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, where local heritage meets global street food culture.
Titanic Quarter Limited
0.2 km
Explore Belfast’s Titanic Quarter: where maritime history meets vibrant urban regeneration along the scenic waterfront.
Titanic experience
0.2 km
Discover the dramatic story of the Titanic where it was built, through immersive exhibits and cutting-edge technology in Belfast’s iconic waterfront landmark.
Titanic Belfast
0.2 km
Explore the Titanic Belfast Museum: Dive into the history of the RMS Titanic and experience its remarkable legacy in an iconic setting.
Harland & Wolff HQ & Drawing Offices
0.2 km
Historic Harland & Wolff HQ and Drawing Offices: birthplace of Titanic’s design and Belfast’s shipbuilding legacy.
SoundYard - Maritime Belfast
0.3 km
Experience Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage through interactive sound and light at the striking SoundYard installation on Queen’s Quay.
W5
0.3 km
An award-winning science and discovery centre in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, where over 250 interactive exhibits spark curiosity and fun for all ages.
SSE Arena Belfast
0.4 km
Belfast’s vibrant SSE Arena on Queens Quay offers world-class concerts, sports, and family events in a modern waterfront setting.
The Iron Throne - Glass of Thrones
0.5 km
Experience the iconic Iron Throne in vibrant stained glass on Belfast’s Titanic Slipways, where fantasy meets maritime history.
Glass of Thrones - Odyssey
0.5 km
Discover the vivid House Targaryen stained glass window at Odyssey Point, a dazzling tribute to Game of Thrones in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter.
Glass of Thrones - HMS Caroline
0.5 km
Discover the dramatic House Lannister stained glass window beside historic HMS Caroline, blending Game of Thrones lore with Belfast’s maritime heritage.
Titanic Mural
0.7 km
A vibrant mural celebrating Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage and the spirit of the Titanic’s shipyard community.
The Great Light, Maritime Mile
0.8 km
Discover Belfast's maritime heritage at The Great Light, a stunning landmark celebrating the city's rich shipbuilding history along The Maritime Mile.
Donegall Quay
0.8 km
Discover Donegall Quay, Belfast’s historic riverside promenade blending maritime heritage, public art, and vibrant urban life along the River Lagan.
Essential places to dine
Hickson's Point
0.2 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and vibrant culture at Hickson's Point in Belfast - your gateway to local flavors.
The Pantry at Titanic Belfast
0.2 km
Savor locally inspired dishes in a historic setting at The Pantry, Titanic Belfast’s welcoming restaurant celebrating Northern Ireland’s finest produce.
Drawing Office Two Bar
0.2 km
Historic elegance meets casual dining in the original Titanic drawing offices with a vibrant bar and all-day menu.
The Wolff Grill Restaurant
0.3 km
Refined British fine dining in the historic Titanic Hotel Belfast with scenic views and maritime heritage ambiance.
Novelli at City Quays
0.7 km
Stylish Mediterranean brasserie on Belfast’s waterfront with stunning harbor views and all-day dining.
OX Belfast
1.0 km
Experience Belfast’s Michelin-starred gem offering inventive modern European tasting menus with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in an elegant setting.
Coppi Restaurant
1.1 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
Buba
1.1 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
1.1 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
Dumpling Library
1.1 km
Experience a vibrant Pan-Asian feast in Belfast’s unique Dumpling Library, where exquisite dumplings meet creative cocktails in intimate dining pods.
Waterman Restaurant
1.1 km
Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
1.1 km
Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
Mumbai 27
1.1 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
Six By Nico Belfast
1.2 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant Six By Nico, where inventive six-course tasting menus transform culinary themes into unforgettable dining adventures.
Taylor & Clay
1.2 km
Award-winning Belfast steakhouse with a bespoke wood-fired Asador grill, serving premium local meats and seasonal dishes in a vibrant city-centre setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Titanic Store
0.2 km
Discover Titanic treasures in Belfast's shipyard heart: exclusive memorabilia, local crafts, and publications that sail the story of the unsinkable ship into your hands.
Art Loves at The Merchant
1.1 km
Discover a curated emporium of art-led gifts and homewares within Belfast’s iconic Merchant Hotel, celebrating creativity and craftsmanship.
Young Savage - Vintage Clothing, Records and Books
1.2 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
Urban Outfitters
1.2 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
Born and Bred
1.2 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
Søstrene Grene
1.2 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
House of Fraser
1.2 km
A historic Belfast department store blending fashion, beauty, and homewares in the heart of Victoria Square’s vibrant shopping scene.
Tommy Hilfiger
1.3 km
Discover classic American style with a modern twist at Tommy Hilfiger, nestled in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square shopping centre.
Fossil Store Belfast
1.3 km
Discover timeless American vintage-inspired watches and accessories in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
L'OCCITANE EN PROVENCE
1.3 km
Experience the natural beauty and timeless elegance of Provence at L'OCCITANE in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Boux Avenue
1.3 km
Discover affordable luxury lingerie and expert fittings in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
New Look
1.3 km
Contemporary fashion retail in Belfast's premier shopping destination with extended hours and convenient services.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
1.3 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
Replay Store Belfast
1.3 km
Discover stylish Italian-designed denim and casual wear at Replay Store Belfast, nestled in the vibrant Victoria Square shopping center.
AllSaints
1.3 km
Discover edgy, contemporary fashion and premium leather goods at AllSaints Belfast in Victoria Square, a stylish destination for modern wardrobe essentials.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pavilion One Bar
0.2 km
A convivial, shipyard‑inspired hotel bar with polished brass, hearty pub dishes and a relaxed atmosphere in the Titanic Hotel Belfast.
The Harland Bar
0.2 km
Elegant piano bar in Harland & Wolff's historic offices, serving Titanic-inspired cocktails amid shipyard artefacts and live music in Belfast's Titanic Quarter.
The American Bar
0.6 km
Historic Sailortown pub pouring perfect pints, live tunes, and bargain bites in Belfast's Docklands—a raw gem for locals and music seekers.
The Tipsy Bird
1.0 km
Experience Belfast's vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Bird, where creative cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for every traveler seeking fun.
39 Gordon Street
1.1 km
Vibrant Cathedral Quarter cocktail bar pulsing with live music, craft drinks, and tasty tacos in Belfast's historic heart.
Ulster Sports Club
1.1 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Ulster Sports Club, Belfast's top sports bar, offering delicious food, live music, and an electric ambiance.
Bert's Jazz Bar
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bert's Jazz Bar in Belfast, where live music, exceptional cocktails, and delectable cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
The Spaniard
1.1 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
The Black Box
1.1 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
The Dark Horse
1.2 km
Quirky Cathedral Quarter pub with historic artifacts, poetic courtyard, Game of Thrones door, and superb drinks amid Belfast's cobbled charm.
The National
1.2 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
Bittles Bar
1.2 km
Discover Belfast’s iconic flatiron-shaped pub, Bittles Bar, where rich Irish culture, history, and a curated whiskey selection blend in a cozy, historic setting.
The Jailhouse
1.3 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
Henry's
1.3 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
The Reporter. Bar
1.3 km
A cozy, quirky, dog-friendly bar in Belfast with great bottled beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Lux
1.0 km
Dive into Belfast's vibrant nightlife at Club Lux, the ultimate disco club and bar experience with electrifying music and great company.
Craics Ninety
1.1 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Ollie's Belfast
1.1 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Kremlin
1.3 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Boombox Belfast
1.3 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Anthology Ni
1.3 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Shoe Factory
1.3 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
The Art Department
1.4 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Cabaret Supper Club
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
1.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Voodoo
1.6 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Alibi
2.5 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
2.5 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Club Honey
3.5 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
13.1 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Newtownards nightlife at Saturday Night Nightclub, where music, dancing, and social energy come alive.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
