Isles of Scilly ferry: Scillonian III makes final run
The vessel that has linked the islands to the mainland for 49 years completed its last trip to Penzance on Sunday.
By Noor Phillips ·
Scillonian III departed St Mary’s on Sunday for Penzance, marking the end of its 49-year service connecting the Isles of Scilly to the British mainland. The 37-nautical-mile journey concluded a long era for the vessel, which locals often nicknamed the “vomit comet” due to its tendency to rock heavily in rough seas.
The ship was built in north Devon and launched by the then Prince Charles. It entered service in 1977, succeeding Scillonian II, which had operated for 25 years. The original Scillonian served from 1926 to 1956 and was used as a military transport during the Second World War.
Terry Ward, who sailed on the first journey to the islands in 1977, described the departure as a moment of shared emotion. “Everybody on the islands have been talking about this last voyage,” Ward said. His great-grandfather was the founding chair of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, the operator of the vessel.
Over nearly five decades, Scillonian III made more than 10,000 trips. It carried residents, tourists, and birdwatchers between spring and autumn. Ray Jackman, a local businessman who was present for both the maiden voyage and the final run, noted that the ship rarely broke down and was central to island life. “It’s a sad day,” Jackman said.
Passengers on the final trip included Sholto Blackwell, who runs a Facebook group for fans of the ship with nearly 5,000 members. Blackwell, who lives near Bristol, has made between 30 and 40 return trips since childhood. He acknowledged the vessel’s capacity for causing seasickness but argued that the experience was part of its charm.
The final crossing was attended by more passengers than the steamship company initially expected, with tickets selling out. A group of singers called Mackerel Sky performed as the ship left Scilly, while the Cape Cornwall Singers welcomed it in Penzance. The celebration continued at the Dock Inn in Penzance with music, dancing, and drinks.
Scillonian IV is currently en route from south-east Asia via the Cape of Good Hope. The new vessel is designed to carry more passengers and travel faster. It features roll and pitch reduction systems to minimize the impact of swells. The company says the replacement will make its first trip in March.
