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 (1854) as agents for the Sardinian Government for £4,070. (equivalent to £ in ) Upon purchase "Ellan Vannin's" name was changed to "Archimedes". The Castletown Steam Navigation Company subsequently went into liquidation. A further call on the shareholders of 10 shillings per share was made in order to finally clear the liabilities incurred by the "Ellan Vannin" for final claims of £600 (equivalent to £ in ). On the night of Tuesday 2 September 1856, whilst under the command of Capt. Skillicorn, the "Ellan Vannin" was involved in an incident in Douglas Bay with a small fishing boat which resulted in