Monticello Steamship Company was in dire need of new vessels in the early years of the 20th century. In 1909 they secured the financing to build what would become their flagship vessel: the S.S. Napa Valley.
Construction began in late summer of 1909. Built of steel to the main deck, the modern vessel would carry ten autos and 1,500 passengers. She was powered by a single triple expansion steam engine, and measured 231.2x48.7x15.3 feet. A single bronze propeller measuring some eleven feet in diameter pushed her through the water at a speedy 20 knots.
A comfortable vessel, the Napa Valley was fitted out with upholstered bench seats, a smoking room, galley and dining saloon. Her saloon deck was open fore and aft, allowing passengers to enjoy the crossing outdoors on warm days.
1922 saw the first rebuild of the vessel. The superstructure and deckhouse were altered to allow the ferry to carry more cars. Carrying capacity went up to sixty autos. Part of her texas deck was enclosed to accommodate the relocated smoking room, which was now around the boiler and engine room casings. Further changes occured in 1926. The bow and stern were both widened to handle autos more quickly. Her car deck was widened and she could now carry 75 autos and 1,623 passengers. Sadly, the changes came at the expense of her looks. No longer a trim looking steamer, the Napa Valley had a squared, shorn look to her.
1929 saw the Napa Valley included in the merger that formed Southern Pacific-Golden Gate Ferries. She continued in service until September of 1937. At that time she was offered for sale along with her other steam running mates, City of Sacramento and Calistoga.
The Puget Sound Navigation Company purchased the vessel, and the second stage of her career was about to begin.
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