 During the 1902-1903 winter season the steamer was supposed to continue operating between Bristol and St. John's, however, "Monterey" did not sail until January 8, 1903 departing Barry with a cargo of 5,500 tons of coal for Philadelphia.From there the vessel sailed to St. Jonh's and next sailed to London on February 15.At about this time Canadian Pacific Railway was finalizing their negotiations with Elder, Dempster Shipping about acquiring several of their steamers to complete their cross-Atlantic, United Kingdom to Canada, service.