Which ship was notable for being the first iron-hulled, steam-powered ocean liner?

The SS Great Britain is significant because it was the first iron-hulled, steam-powered ocean liner, which marked a major advancement in maritime engineering. Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel and launched in 1843, the SS Great Britain was a revolutionary vessel in its time. It combined an iron hull with a steam propulsion system, which allowed for greater durability and efficiency compared to the wooden ships of the past. This vessel demonstrated the possibilities of combining new materials and technologies, setting a precedent for future shipbuilding that emphasized both safety and speed.

Additionally, the innovations introduced with the SS Great Britain laid the groundwork for the modern ocean liner, influencing subsequent designs and contributing to the evolution of transatlantic travel. Its maiden voyage from Liverpool to New York was an important milestone, highlighting the transition from sail to steam power in the maritime industry.