Originally named Abington, she entered service with Cheviot Coasters Ltd. in November 1921, operating from Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

She was bought by the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company in January 1932 for £5,500, (equivalent to £482,255 in 2023)[1] when her name was changed to Conister.

Conister was engaged in general cargo work and was frequently to be seen in Ramsey, unloading goods from Liverpool, before sailing on to Douglas.

[2] With the impending introduction into service of her successor MV Ramsey, Conister was put up for sale.

On 26 January 1965 she was sold to Arnott Young & Co., Glasgow, and was taken under tow to Dalmuir by the tug Campaigner for scrapping.