SS Ellan Vannin (1854) her general exterior being similar to the "Countess of Ellesmere." In fact she was built very much after the model of that vessel, but with the additional requirements to adapt her for sea-going purposes in the challenging conditions around the Isle of Man. Clinker built, "Ellan Vannin" was rigged as a two mast steamer with two white painted funnels and with a full length female figurehead sitting on a rock adorned with a castellated crown. "Ellan Vannin" was well appointed for the carriage of passengers with accommodation for 91 First Class and 195 Second Class. Her after saloon was in
SS Ellan Vannin (1883) Liverpool and Scotland. She gave 26 years more service, and became the main mail carrier out of Ramsey. In December 1891, she completed a special overhaul at the Naval Construction Works at Barrow, costing £2,913. By 1909 she was the smallest and oldest ship in the Steam Packet Fleet. "Ellan Vannin" was considered an exceptionally fine vessel in bad weather, carrying out the daily mail contract when other vessels were safe in harbour. Indeed, stormy weather appeared to be no deterrent to her, and it is reported that when up to 12 ocean liners had been taking shelter in Ramsey