SS Ellan Vannin (1854) "Ellan Vannin" proceeded across to the new pier where she was opened to the general public. The "Ben-my-Chree", which was returning to Douglas following a pleasure cruise around the Island passed close by and greeted the "Ellan Vannin" by firing two guns. The "Ellan Vannin" entered service under the command of Captain Joseph Skillicorn, an experienced mariner who prior to his appointment had been in the employ of the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company serving on the "Mona's Queen with the rank of First Officer. Mainly the "Ellan Vannin" would ply between Castletown, Isle of Man and Whitehaven, Cumberland
SS Ellan Vannin (1854) were situated seats which could be removed in order to accommodate general cargo or livestock. A Tyzak and Dobson patent windlass was installed on the deck so as to aid the loading and unloading of cargo. "Ellan Vannin" underwent her sea trials on Saturday 29 July 1854, prior to which she was involved in a race against the "Countess of Ellesmere" (said by contemporary reports to be the fastest steamer on smooth water in the whole of England). Several representatives of her owners were present accompanied by a band, and were taken to the "Ellan Vannin", which was lying mid-stream