Mr.Ismay, during the construction of the vessel, took every pains to suggest improvements and arrangements with a view to the comfort and convenience of the travelling public.

He accompanied the vessel on her first voyage to New York in March, 1871, under command of Captain, now Sir Digby Murray, Brt.

Although severe weather was experienced, the ship made a splendid voyage, with a heavy cargo of goods and passengers.

The Oceanic thus started the Transatlantic traffic of the Company, with the house-flag of the White Star proudly flying on the main.
It may be mentioned that the speed of the Oceanic was at least a knot faster per hour than had been heretofore accomplished across the Atlantic.

The motion of the vessel was easy, without any indication of weakness or straining, even in the heaviest weather.