PS St. Elvies
1896 Built by Fairfield Shipbuilding and Engineering Co. 567 tons.
Owned by the Liverpool and North Wales Steamship Co
‘Cross-Channel and Coastal Paddle Steamers’ by George Frank Burtt
To replace the BONNIE PRINCESS, the Company purchased in 1896 from the Fairfield Company another paddle steamer, smaller than the ST. TUDNO, but nevertheless a vessel of ample proportions. In appearance she closely resembled the ST. TUDNO. Her length was 240.6 feet, beam 28.3 feet, depth to main deck 10.2 feet, and to upper deck 18.3 feet; her gross tonnage was 566. She was built of steel and had eight separate water tight compartments. A smart schooner rig and proportionate funnels gave her an attractive appearance. A bow rudder was provided to facilitate turning in narrow channels.
The ST. ELVIES was fitted with compound diagonal engines having cylinders 37.5 in. and 72 in. in diameter, a 60 in. piston stroke and 335 n.h.p. She was licensed to carry 991 passengers and had a speed of 18.5 knots. In March, 1915, the ST. ELVIES was taken over by the Admiralty and fitted out as a mine-sweeper. Whilst principally engaged in this dangerous and hazardous duty, she also had the honour of conveying His Majesty the King and other noted personalities on their visits to the Fleet from time to time. She was released from Admiralty service in March, 1919.
During the summer seasons the ST. ELVIES ran regular trips to the Isle of Man from North Wales.
She made her last trip on 14th September, 1930, and shortly afterwards was sold to Messrs. R. Smith and Sons, of Liverpool, and broken up.