The SS Nile was an iron-hulled cargo steamship built in Dumbarton in 1850, designed as a screw steamer. She was initially operated by the Moss Line of Liverpool, serving the Mediterranean route. In 1853, ownership transferred to James Stirling of Dublin, and her operations were taken over by the British and Irish Steam Packet Company. The vessel measured a typical size for her era, with an iron hull and powered by a screw propeller, suitable for cargo and passenger transport. On her final voyage, the Nile traveled from Liverpool to London, calling at Penzance, Falmouth, Plymouth, and Portsmouth. She was carrying heavy merchandise and could accommodate passengers at low rates, though the late season meant few passengers traveled. The ship departed Liverpool on the evening of 28 November 1854 after a two-day delay caused by bad weather. On 30 November, she was last sighted approximately 40 miles from the Longships Lighthouse, navigating rough seas and high winds. Tragically, the Nile sank after likely striking The Stones, a hazardous reef off Godrevy Head in Cornwall. Evidence suggests the captain, W.F. Moppett, may have drifted off course by about 18-20 miles amid worsening weather. The ship probably hit the rocks around 2 or 3 am after the flood tide, foundering in approximately 12 to 14 fathoms of water. The rapid disintegration of the vessel, combined with the tumultuous seas, resulted in the loss of all aboard—estimated at about 24 crew members and possibly passengers—many of whom drowned or were overwhelmed by the waves. The sinking was notable for prompting maritime safety concerns, particularly over the lack of navigational aids near The Stones. Debris, including papers, spars, and bodies, was washed ashore, confirming the disaster's location. The incident underscored the peril posed by The Stones, leading to renewed efforts for lighthouse construction, which resulted in the establishment of the Godrevy Lighthouse in 1859. The wreck of the Nile, valued at £40,000 to £50,000, was almost fully insured, but much of her cargo—goods from Manchester destined for southwestern markets—was uninsured, causing significant financial loss to her consignees. The tragedy remains a stark reminder of the dangers faced by maritime navigation in treacherous waters.

This description has been generated using GPT-4.1-NANO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.