An iconic UK ferry is set to stop sailing after almost 50 years. The ship, which embarked on its maiden voyage in 1977, has completed around 10,000 return journeys and travelled more than 688,500 nautical miles.
The Scillonian III operates between Penzance, in Cornwall, and St Mary’s in the Isles of Scilly, providing a reliable link for freight and mail, as well as access to the mainland. It is owned by the Isle of Scilly Steamship Company and holds the rare status of being a Royal Mail Ship (RMS) which means it’s legally contracted to transport mail across the seas.
However, it has been confirmed the ferry is serving its final season and will make its last voyage in November. It is set to be replaced by a modernised vessel, the Scillonian IV, in March 2027.
As well as making the trip quicker, the new ship will be able to carry more passengers. It will also feature “roll and pitch reduction systems” that are designed to combat nausea-inducing sea swells.
The Scillonian III has been major feature of the local area for decades with Stuart Reid, Isles of Scilly Steamship group chief executive, describing the final voyage as a “proud and poignant moment”. He added that the ship has employed some people for “all of their working life”.
The iconic ship, which is powered by diesel, was built by Appledore Shipbuilders, in North Devon, in 1977. It was christened by King Charles, then Prince, on May 17, 1977, before its maiden voyage eight days later.
The vessel was purpose-built with a shallow three-metre draught, which allows it to easily navigate low tides at the ports in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. It can accommodate 486 passengers and 18 crew members across four decks.
The ship also features cafe bars which serve a range of refreshments to passengers. Some use the route between Penzance the Isles of Scilly as a mini-cruise as it offers amazing views of the Minack Theatre and Land’s End, as well as common sightings of dolphins, seabirds, and basking sharks.
Mr Reid said: “Scillonian III has served the islands with distinction for 49 years, and while we look forward to welcoming Scillonian IV, we know how fondly Scillonian III is regarded by so many.”
He added that “when she does sail off into the sunset for a new adventure”, it will “certainly be a little bit sad”.
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