Abstract: This paper briefly reviews the history of the failure of the first voyage of the ship Turbinia due to the cavitation phenomenon. Based on the historical facts, the main features and the background of Turbinia are introduced in the present paper. The reasons for the failure of the first voyage are analyzed. The basic concept of cavitation and its close relationship with propeller speed are described. Furthermore, the continuous improvement and further trials of Turbinia are summarized. Finally, this paper briefly summarizes the significance and the influence of the ship Turbinia together with the contributions of the scientist Charles Parsons on the cavitation phenomenon.