The familiar silhouette of the Scillonian III will make its final season this year, the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group has confirmed, bringing to an end a 49‑year run on the 28‑mile crossing between Penzance and St Mary’s.
What is changing
The Scillonian III, which has made around 10,000 return journeys and carried millions of passengers since entering service in 1977, will be replaced after the 2026 season ends in November. The company has invested £40 million in a new ferry, the Scillonian IV, described as a step change in passenger comfort and capability.
New ship details and timeline
The new vessel has recently entered sea trials in Vietnam and, subject to those tests, will begin her journey to the UK ahead of a planned entry to service in March 2027. Reports give the new ferry’s length at roughly 72–75 metres and say it will carry 600 passengers—an increase of about 115 over the current vessel.
“While Scillonian IV looks magnificent, the real pleasure for passengers will be in the experience she offers. This represents a step change in comfort and service,” said Sam Hicks, board member of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group.
- Current crossing time on Scillonian III: about 2 hours 45 minutes.
- New ship to feature systems to reduce roll and pitch, improved seating, air conditioning and larger windows.
- Sea trials underway in Vietnam; service expected from March 2027.
Why this matters locally
The ferry is not only a passenger link but also a vital lifeline for freight and mail. The Scillonian III has operated as a dependable seasonal link for decades and holds a distinctive place in island life—employing crew for long periods and serving as the main surface connection for visitors and residents. The prospect of a larger, more comfortable ferry should ease pressures in peak season and offer better resilience in rough conditions, but it also marks the end of a familiar chapter for many islanders.
| Scillonian III | Scillonian IV (new) | |
|---|---|---|
| Entered service | 1977 | N/A (due March 2027) |
| Length | Built by Appledore Shipbuilders (1977) | Reported ~72–75 metres |
| Passenger capacity | Approximately 486 | 600 |
| Journey time (typical) | About 2h 45m | Expected to be reduced |
Practical considerations for residents and visitors
Passengers who are prone to seasickness may notice a difference aboard the new vessel: the company says Scillonian IV will include hull vane technology and active roll‑fin stabilisers to cut pitching and rolling. Onboard facilities will also be expanded with a coffee shop, retail area and revised seating across multiple decks.
For island businesses and services that rely on punctual freight and mail delivery, the larger capacity and promised improvements in reliability are likely to be welcomed. The Steamship Group has framed the replacement as an expression of confidence in the future of the Isles of Scilly.
The Scillonian III’s last scheduled sailings will be during the 2026 season, with the new ferry slated to begin passenger operations in spring 2027 once UK arrival and certification procedures are completed.
