HMS Caroline is a decommissioned C-class light cruiser of the Royal Navy, it was active in combat service in the First World War and acted as an administration centre in the Second World War. This cruiser was launched and commissioned in 1914 and was decommissioned in 2011, at this time she was the second oldest ship in the Royal Navy service. Caroline was one of eight C-Class light cruisers ordered under the Admiralty’s 1913-1914 construction programme, and is the sole survivor from this fleet. When she moved to Belfast dock she was converted in to a drill ship and was the floating headquarters of the Ulster Division of the Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve. She has had her home here in Belfast for more than ninety years. Today she is docked at Alexandra Dock and serves as a world-class naval museum and heritage visitor attraction.
HMS Caroline is a living legend, she has a long and distinguished history, and is the sole surviving ship from the Battle of Jutland in 1916. She underwent a considerable restoration programme to her former seafaring glory and is now a new visitor experience located in Belfast’s vibrant Titanic Quarter. Once onboard visitors have access to the history and life of the more than three hundred crew who served on board as well as entry to the different areas of the ship, including the Captain Crookes Cabin, Royal Marines Mess, Seaman’s Wash, engine room, sick bay and galley kitchen which, have all been brought back to life and looks just as they would have done when the crew left over 100 years ago. During the experience visitors will get an insight into what was like onboard for the crew, and can explore through different media sources, with historic restoration, state-of-the-art special effects and hands on interactive exhibits. It is a real interactive experience that allows visitors to soak up her intriguing shipbuilding and maritime history through a self guided audio tour.
Visitors can also participate in the fun at the exciting Signal School where they can attempt deciphering messages in Morse code or with signal flags or signal lanterns, experience the Torpedo School. Visitors can also see contemporary exhibits about communications at sea today in the Virtual Access Suite.
HMS Caroline is a living legend, a world class heritage asset and is unique amongst the world’s historic vessels. This old lady is an integral part of the city and is affectionately referred to as HMS Go Nowhere and HMS Never Budge.
HMS Caroline opens daily from 10.00am. The First Rates Mess Cafe serves light meals and snacks.