Is it really true that many lifeboats leaving the Titanic were half empty?

Question

My great-grandfather, the 2nd Earl, had to find room for his drinks cabinet, a Fortnam and Masons hamper, his valet, a maid, the family silver and a Persian rug, plus he liked to stretch his feet out.

So thats hardly an empty life boat, is it?

On the plus side, ice for gin and tonics wasn't much of a problem.

Answer 1

if you' a pessimist then yes but if you're an optimist they were half full

Answer 2

I love your sense of humour old boy keep it up. Those who have a problem need to chill.

Answer 3

Dave, why not fill it with steerage passengers to do the rowing?

Answer 4

Didn't it list over so that the life boats on one side were useless?

Answer 5

the boats were not half empty. they were half full.

Answer 6

well its them irish what do you expect?

Answer 7

I think it's  a possibility but I don't find it very important!

Answer 8

Yes.

Answer 9

Oh I read about him; Not only that he jumped the queue when the boatswain said 'Women and Children first'.

My reply was a true account of one the landed gentry trying to get away with the women and children in the life boats but this particular one was hauled out of the life boat and he perished at sea in that awful tragedy.

Answer 10

it also true that Eddie smith the captin was my grandmothers grandad

Answer 11

Equally, my great grandmother simply would not allow the maid and undermaid to get into her boat, just wasn't done. However I do remember tales of her being in a boat with your great grandfather over night  . .

Answer 12

Okay, why ask a question like this?

If you want the REAL answer

yes they were, hence the reason 1523 people died. Each bot could hold 80 people but one left with 7. Thats a lot

Well just incase you were actually being serious that is.

If you weren't. That was an insensitive question.

Answer 13

harsh...but funny

Answer 14

Pleased to hear he kept his standards up, wouldn't want him to let the side down, what?