Latest news with #ScillonianIII
Daily Mirror
04-05-2025
- Daily Mirror
Tiny island 28-miles from England is named secret paradise just like Caribbean
St Mary's in the Isles of Scilly may be just 28 miles off the southwestern tip of England, but it offers an idyllic escape that feels worlds away from mainland Britain Just 28 miles off the southwestern tip of Cornwall lies an island that feels worlds away from mainland Britain. With crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches that rival the Caribbean, St Mary's in the Isles of Scilly offers a surprising and idyllic escape - all without leaving the UK. This 2.5-square-mile island may be small, but it promises an unforgettable experience. The adventure begins with the journey itself. Most visitors arrive on the Scillonian III ferry from Penzance, a scenic two-hour and 45-minute voyage that serves as a perfect transition from the hustle of daily life to the relaxed pace of island time. For those looking for a quicker and more thrilling option, a 15-minute helicopter ride from Penzance provides spectacular aerial views that rival even some of those found in the Caribbean. Once you arrive, a visit to The Garrison, a star-shaped fortification dating back to the 16th century, offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's strategic military past. Walking along its ramparts, you'll be treated to sweeping panoramic views of the entire archipelago, making it a prime spot for photography that rivals observation decks in major European cities. St Mary's is home to several pristine beaches that feel as though they've been transplanted from far more exotic destinations. Porthcressa and Porthmellon beaches feature soft, powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters that shimmer in the sunlight. Thanks to the island's unique microclimate, which is warmer than mainland Britain, the conditions are ideal for swimming, particularly during the summer months. It also serves as the perfect base for exploring nearby islands. Small inter-island boats regularly depart from the quay, making it easy to take day trips to Tresco, home to the famous Abbey Gardens, or to St. Martin's, known for its award-winning vineyard. As you glide across the crystal-clear waters, you might even spot seals playfully swimming beneath the surface. The surrounding waters are teeming with marine life, and kayaking along the coast often brings you up close to the curious seals, who pop their heads above the water to investigate. Birdwatchers flock to the islands for a chance to see rare species attracted by the islands' unique position. What makes St Mary's even more special is its surprisingly mild climate, which feels more akin to the coastal towns of Spain than the typical British weather. While it may not boast sunshine every day of the year, the island enjoys far more bright days than the mainland, making outdoor exploration a delight no matter the season. The island offers over 30 miles of walking trails, many of which follow the dramatic coastline. These paths wind through landscapes that range from windswept headlands to sheltered coves, each offering stunning vistas perfect for nature photography that could grace the covers of magazines. St Mary's captivates with its beaches reminiscent of tropical paradises, intriguing history, and remarkable natural beauty. This tiny island, just off England's tip, offers an experience that feels both foreign and familiar, leaving you to wonder why more travellers haven't yet discovered this gem, hidden in plain sight.
Yahoo
22-03-2025
- Yahoo
Scillonian III back in service for final season
The ferry service to the Isles of Scilly has resumed with the Scillonian III back in service for its final season. The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group (ISSG) said a gearbox problem had been detected on the vessel which meant it could not return to service on Friday as planned. But the company said final repairs had since been completed and Scillonian III was back to its scheduled sailings on Saturday. The ISSG said: "We sincerely appreciate your patience and understanding during this time and would like to thank you for the kind messages of support, they have meant a great deal to the crew and contractors who have worked to bring her back to service." A new ferry, Scillonian IV, is expected to start crossings between Penzance and the Isles of Scilly next year, bringing an end to Scillonian III's service. Scillonian IV and a new cargo ship have been constructed in Vietnam with plans to begin crossings in spring 2026. ISSG said Scillonian III made its first crossing in 1977 and has made more than 10,000 trips to the islands. Scillonian's return for final season delayed Scillonian III ferry all set for 'final season' Ceremony marks 'birth' of Scilly vessels
BBC News
22-03-2025
- BBC News
Scillonian III back in service from Penzance for final season
The ferry service to the Isles of Scilly has resumed with the Scillonian III back in service for its final Isles of Scilly Steamship Group (ISSG) said a gearbox problem had been detected on the vessel which meant it could not return to service on Friday as the company said final repairs had since been completed and Scillonian III was back to its scheduled sailings on ISSG said: "We sincerely appreciate your patience and understanding during this time and would like to thank you for the kind messages of support, they have meant a great deal to the crew and contractors who have worked to bring her back to service." A new ferry, Scillonian IV, is expected to start crossings between Penzance and the Isles of Scilly next year, bringing an end to Scillonian III's IV and a new cargo ship have been constructed in Vietnam with plans to begin crossings in spring said Scillonian III made its first crossing in 1977 and has made more than 10,000 trips to the islands.
BBC News
28-02-2025
- Business
- BBC News
Scillonian III ferry set for final season to the Isles of Scilly
Final preparations are under way for the Scillonian III ferry to start sailing to the Isles of Scilly next month on what could be her last vessel came into service in 1977 and has made more than 10,000 trips to the managers at the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group (ISSG) have said the ferry was now 48 years old and it was now time to look replacement, the Scillonian IV, and a new cargo vessel were both under construction in Vietnam and were scheduled to enter service in the spring of 2026. The Scillonian III has made the 36 mile (58km) journey from Penzance harbour to St Mary's harbour on the Isles of Scilly more than 10,000 ferry has travelled over 388,500 nautical miles and carried over five million passengers since entering service in 1977. However, the 223ft (68m) ship, which sails between March and November, has experienced some mechanical issues. 'Completely overhauled' An engine problem meant she had to operate on half power for a few days in September 2024 and journey times were increased from two hours 45 mins to four crane that lifts cargo into the hold also broke last year and mobile cranes were brought in to the quays in Penzance and St Mary' Isles of Scilly Steamship Group CEO Stuart Reid said he hoped their problems were behind them."The crane has been completely overhauled and the engine has been tested and everything is looking good for the first sailing," he said. The Scillonian IV and the cargo vessel Menawethan were under construction at the French boatbuilder Piriou's shipyard in were scheduled to start service next spring but CEO Stuart Reid was remaining cautious."All of the hull blocks are now in place for the Menawethen and around 75% are in place for Scillonian IV," he said."Shipbuilding is a complex process, we remain on track but there are a number of challenges to come, including delivery of the vessels from Vietnam under their own steam which is likely to take up to 50 days." The new passenger vessel will have a 24% higher capacity of 600 and stabilisation technology to make her more comfortable in heavy cargo vessel Menawethen will replace the old Gry Maritha - she is named after one of the 12 uninhabited Eastern will have an increased cargo capacity and more space for chilled and frozen goods.
Yahoo
28-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Scillonian III ferry all set for 'final season'
Final preparations are under way for the Scillonian III ferry to start sailing to the Isles of Scilly next month on what could be her last season. The vessel came into service in 1977 and has made more than 10,000 trips to the islands. Senior managers at the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group (ISSG) have said the ferry was now 48 years old and it was now time to look forward. Her replacement, the Scillonian IV, and a new cargo vessel were both under construction in Vietnam and were scheduled to enter service in the spring of 2026. The Scillonian III has made the 36 mile (58km) journey from Penzance harbour to St Mary's harbour on the Isles of Scilly more than 10,000 times. The ferry has travelled over 388,500 nautical miles and carried over five million passengers since entering service in 1977. However, the 223ft (68m) ship, which sails between March and November, has experienced some mechanical issues. An engine problem meant she had to operate on half power for a few days in September 2024 and journey times were increased from two hours 45 mins to four hours. The crane that lifts cargo into the hold also broke last year and mobile cranes were brought in to the quays in Penzance and St Mary's. The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group CEO Stuart Reid said he hoped their problems were behind them. "The crane has been completely overhauled and the engine has been tested and everything is looking good for the first sailing," he said. The Scillonian IV and the cargo vessel Menawethan were under construction at the French boatbuilder Piriou's shipyard in Vietnam. Both were scheduled to start service next spring but CEO Stuart Reid was remaining cautious. "All of the hull blocks are now in place for the Menawethen and around 75% are in place for Scillonian IV," he said. "Shipbuilding is a complex process, we remain on track but there are a number of challenges to come, including delivery of the vessels from Vietnam under their own steam which is likely to take up to 50 days." The new passenger vessel will have a 24% higher capacity of 600 and stabilisation technology to make her more comfortable in heavy seas. The cargo vessel Menawethen will replace the old Gry Maritha - she is named after one of the 12 uninhabited Eastern Isles. She will have an increased cargo capacity and more space for chilled and frozen goods. Follow BBC Cornwall on X, Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to spotlight@ Ceremony marks 'birth' of Scilly vessels Warning after island ferry service suffers fault One of the best things I've done - whale surveyor Isles of Scilly Travel
