Originally named Rose, she was launched in 1961 and entered service on the Tilbury to Gravesend route.

In 1967 Rose became surplus to the needs of B.R., and was transferred to the Caledonian Steam Packet Company on the Clyde where she was renamed Keppel.

She operated independently as Clyde Rose (name never registered) for that summer but was laid up at the James Watt Dock, before being sold to Maltese interests.

[3] Built for the Tilbury to Gravesend route on the Thames, she was used as the backup and relief vessel to her sisters.

From 1974, she berthed overnight at Rothesay, giving a morning crossing to Wemyss Bay and serving the McAlpine yard at Ardyne.