Steamship Group welcomes new Scillonian Master
The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group has welcomed Joe Whetton as Master of Scillonian III.
Joe, 31, who has a wealth of maritime experience spanning cruise ships, superyachts, general cargo vessels and LNG carriers, will take the helm from Victoria Bolitho on April 15th.
Joe said: “I used to travel on Scillonian III on family holidays as a child, so to be on the bridge as Master is a real honour.
“She’s a classic ship and is not only well recognised but also much-loved by so many people. I’m looking forward to being part of her story.”
Most recently, Joe worked as Risk and Investigation Manager for the Carnival UK fleet.
Prior to this, he held senior bridge roles including First Officer with Royal Caribbean International and Safety Officer with Marella Cruises, where he was responsible for navigation, ship operations, stability planning, and safety management. His career has also included Chief Officer positions on large superyachts, giving him ship handling experience and operational leadership.
Joe, who regularly visits the Isles of Scilly to dive, decided to return to sea and was particularly keen to work in a role that supports the lifeline service to the local community.
Scillonian III has been the islands’ faithful servant for almost 50 years. The 2026 season, which runs until November, is her final year in service before she is replaced by the state-of-the-art Scillonian IV, which is currently being built and is scheduled to enter service in March 2027.
Stuart Reid, Chief Executive of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, said: “We are delighted to announce Joe’s appointment and would like to take this chance to wish him every success in his new role.”
With more than 200 employees, including engineers, mariners, pilots, front line workers and office staff, the Steamship Group is one of West Cornwall’s biggest employers.
It has been delivering for Scilly for more than 100 years, connecting the islands with the rest of the country. Established by islanders in March 1920, the business has grown into a major air and sea operation, transporting more than 200,000 passengers and 15,000 tonnes of freight a year.
Scillonian III has been the islands’ faithful servant for almost 50 years. The 2026 season, which runs until November, is her final year in service before she is replaced by the state-of-the-art Scillonian IV, which is currently being built and is scheduled to enter service in March 2027.
The introduction of Scillonian IV next year forms part of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group’s £40 million investment programme, ensuring modern, resilient and future-proof passenger and freight services for the islands.