Launched on 27th August 1870, the first liner comissioned by Thomas Ismay cost £120,000. Oceanic 1 introduced features which became standard on subsequent modern passenger vessels - promenade decks and bathtubs with running water for the passengers, a first class dining room which doubled as a lounge amidships (with a separate chair for each person), two bridal suites (each furnished with double beds) and larger than normal port holes to admit more light.

She was scrapped in 1896.