Scillonian IV sets sail from Vietnam on journey home to the UK

The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group’s new passenger ferry, Scillonian IV, departed Vietnam at 06:00 local time (23:00 UK time) – the beginning of her journey to the UK ahead of entering service in March 2027.

The state-of-the-art 75m vessel embarked on the two-month voyage, travelling from Ho Chi Minh City via the Cape of Good Hope, the same route taken by freight vessel Menawethan earlier this year.

Scillonian IV, which has the capacity to carry 600 passengers, will replace Scillonian III, heralding the start of a new era of travel to the Isles of Scilly.

Ian Howard, Chairman of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, was in Vietnam for the occasion. He said: “Watching Scillonian IV leave Vietnam and begin her journey home was a hugely significant moment for everyone involved in bringing the vessel to life.

“Reaching this stage reflects the tremendous work, expertise and commitment of the teams who have overseen her construction and the many people who have contributed to the project.

“We’re now looking forward to welcoming her closer to home and beginning the next phase of preparations ahead of her entry into service in March.

“We know how important Scillonian IV is to the future of the Isles of Scilly, and we’re excited to be one step closer to introducing her to the communities and visitors she will serve.”

Scillonian IV is crewed by a team from a specialist delivery company. The voyage will include several bunker stops before a final call at Piriou’s shipyard in Brittany, France, before she continues on to Penzance.

The ship is expected to spend approximately three weeks in Brittany where a final survey will be carried out ahead of delivery. During this period, the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group’s technical teams and a number of crew members will be on hand to continue preparations, begin familiarisation with the new vessel and support the final stages of the delivery process.

There will also be opportunities for additional crew members to join the ship for parts of the journey.

The Steamship Group’s £40m vessel replacement programme represents one of the most significant investments in the company’s history, reaffirming its commitment to supporting island communities through improved passenger and freight services.