From the North Wales Journal, 29th April, 1881:
LLANDUDNO. THE NEW COMPANY'S STEAMER.—The paddle steamer Bonnie Doon, intended for the service between the Mersey, Llandudno, and the Menai Straits, made her maiden trip on Saturday last, having on board a company of influential local merchants, general brokers, and others, to the number of some 200. The start was made precisely at five minutes past one, the steamer for a portion of the journey having the benefit of the tail end of the ebb tide. This advantage, however, was considerably counteracted by the prevalence of a north-west wind, which blew with much force right on the bow of the vessel. The tide being low, the steamer had to make a detour towards the Crosby side, thus adding to the distance of the journey. The Bonnie Doon reached Llandudno at ten minutes to four, the passage occupying two hours and forty-five minutes. Throughout the whole time the weather was but moderately fine, and when within a short distance from the Great Ormes-head rain commenced to descend. This continued until the pier was reached, the passengers landing in a deluging downpour. The larger number of them debarked, after which the steamer proceeded to the Menai Straits. The return journey was commenced under much more favourable circumstances so far as the weather was concerned, but the Bonnie Doon had the disadvantage of contending against a strong current, the sea also being rather" lumpy." On the whole, the passage out and home was successfully performed, the steamer proving herself both a fast sailor and a moderately good sea boat. The journey home from Llandudno occupied two hours and fifty minutes, the Bonnie: Doon reaching the Landing-stage at 9.35. The passengers, for the most part, preferred being in the open air, notwithstanding the strong wind which prevailed, so that the large promenade deck was occupied to the exclusion of the handsomely fitted up cabins. The absence of sea- sick passengers may be taken as a reliable indication of the good sea-going qualities of the vessel, as well as that the trip was thoroughly enioved.
