These Images From The Titanic Were Kept Hidden, Until Now

Crowded Lifeboats

The Titanic had 20 lifeboats, which could only accommodate 1,178 people. There were 2,208 on board with a total capacity of 3,547 passengers and crew. When the Titanic sank, 18 lifeboats were used.

Many of the lifeboats only carried half of their maximum capacity. Most of the lifeboats did not return to the wreck to help survivors for fear of being swamped by the drowning victims. Two of the lifeboats did return and help a few survivors from the water.