Teare is best known as the Master of the RMS Ellan Vannin on her ill-fated voyage from Ramsey, Isle of Man to Liverpool on 3 December 1909.

[1] Following the summer season he went on shore leave and as the year closed he resumed command of the Ellan Vannin for a month's winter service, which by December 1909 was the smallest and oldest vessel in the Steam Packet Fleet.

[1] Known for being a cautious and diligent captain as well as a lifelong teetotaler, James Teare was married with four children and lived at No 9 York Road, Douglas, Isle of Man.

The wind direction on departure was from the northwest meaning the Ellan Vannin would have a following sea during her passage, something which would have caused her Master no particular concern.

[5] However, the weather rapidly worsened and by 06:35hrs, when the ship arrived at the Mersey Bar Lightship, the wind had risen to a Hurricane Force 12, and waves were reported to be exceeding 24 feet (7 m) in height.

[5] It was also reported that the crew of the lightship had picked up a mail bag which was destined for the Birkenhead Post Office and which was found to contain letters despatched from Ramsey.

[5] The following morning the company offices in Douglas received a telegram from Liverpool stating that one of the Ellan Vannin's lifeboats had been washed ashore at New Brighton with its cover on and its working gear inside.

The official inquiry referred to waves 24 feet (7 m) high and declared the ship to have been in good condition and fully seaworthy.