Formed on 26 March 1920, the Isles of Scilly Steamship Company initially operated services with the Peninnis (ex-HMS Argus), but it had soon become clear that a purpose-built, new steamer was required.

In order to keep their yard open during the economic slump, this work was undertaken at cost, the contract price was £24,500 (equivalent to £1,770,000 as of 2023).

Her route out of Newlyn was to creep close to the shore, even between St Clement's Isle and Mousehole, to avoid setting off acoustic mines.

The ship did not have radar and the captain, in poor visibility, often found his bearings by listening for the bell buoy of the Spanish Ledge, or the bugle of Vic Trenwith who would play on Peninnis Head.

The next day patched with cement and acetylene welding she was cleared by the Board of Trade as seaworthy to make the return journey to the mainland.