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) by two oscillating marine engines with tubular boilers, built by Messrs. Fawcett, Preston & Co. (similar to those installed in the "Countess of Ellesmere") which developed , driving two paddle wheels of 16' diameter which were fitted with feathered floats. The paddle floats were "feathered" so as to help to reduce vibration which could be common in early marine steam engines. She was divided into five water tight compartments had accommodation for 100 tons of cargo and a bunker capacity for 40 tons of coal. "Ellan Vannin" was said to be a remarkably handsome vessel, having a smart rakish appearance,