Five days into its journey, the Lusitania navigated towards Britain without any escort or guidance, despite the risks involved. It was notable that there were no instructions to take the safer North Channel route, which had recently become available. This decision was concerning given the valuable cargo the ship was transporting, including rifle cartridges and crucial shrapnel shells.

The absence of protective measures and the choice of route highlighted significant oversight in maritime safety during that period. The Lusitania, carrying important military supplies, was left vulnerable, which ultimately contributed to the tragic events that followed.