Witnessing the future of the Isles of Scilly fleet in Vietnam
Standing on the edge of the Nhà Bè River, watching Scillonian IV emerge from dry dock for the first time, was a moment years in the making for islander and Isles of Scilly Steamship Group Board Member, Sam Hicks. His trip to Vietnam marked a rare opportunity to see the new freight vessel, Menawethan, and passenger ferry, Scillonian IV, reaching key milestones of our new vessel replacement project.
Sam reflects on his visit to the Pirou shipyard in Ho Chi Minh City and what these vessels will mean for islanders, crew, and passengers.
“With so much focus rightly placed on the future of the Isles of Scilly service, expectations for the new vessels are understandably high. For the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, providing an excellent, reliable service for both passengers and freight is essential and seeing that vision become reality in Vietnam was something truly special.
“Visiting the shipyard to witness the completion of Menawethan and a major milestone in the build of Scillonian IV was a real privilege. Just watching years of planning and collaboration come together… it was impossible not to feel proud of what has been achieved.”
Menawethan
“Seeing Menawethan fully finished for the first time was hugely impressive. The standard of workmanship is outstanding. From the finish of the vessel to the engineering beneath it, everything has been designed with reliability, safety, and efficiency at its core.
“The systems in place are all top quality, and the team are content that they will ensure robust and reliable operations at all stages, assisting the crew and quay hands in working efficiently and safely as freight is moved back and forth to the islands.
“Spending time on board gave me reassurance that this vessel will provide the service Scilly needs. The proof will be in the service she ultimately delivers, and there is of course much work to do before implementation. However, everything I saw and heard during my time there was very optimistic”.
Scillonian IV
“The launch of Scillonian IV marked a defining milestone in a project years in the making. Watching her float for the first time and emerge from dry dock was a powerful moment, not only for the project team but for everyone who depends on this vital lifeline to the Isles of Scilly.
“From the initial decision to replace Scillonian III through to refining the design with the community, naval architects, and shipyard, this has been a long and carefully considered journey. The quality of workmanship speaks for itself, and Scillonian IV is a vessel the islands can be immensely proud of.
“I was born in 1977 when Scillonian III was launched, and she is the only passenger ship I have ever known on this route. Seeing the ‘birth’ of her replacement felt hugely symbolic, and we all hope she will serve the islands just as well.”
Designed for comfort, stability and for the future
“While Scillonian IV looks magnificent, the real pleasure for passengers will be in the experience she offers. This represents a step change in comfort and service.
“New technology such as the hull vane has been incorporated to improve fuel efficiency and reduce pitching in heavy seas, alongside active roll‑fin stabilisers which is a technology we’ve not benefited from on previous vessels. Together this should make a noticeable difference to passenger comfort.
“On board, standards have been set high, with improved seating, air conditioning, sound management for a quieter journey, large windows, and generous deck spaces.
“For the crew, the bridge is something to behold. There is excellent visibility, advanced systems and a layout that feels more like mission control than a traditional wheelhouse.
“Scillonian IV is not just a beautiful ship; she represents confidence in the future of the Isles of Scilly.
“For Menawethan, reliability, capacity, and flexibility are what matter most. There will be huge increases in chilled and frozen capacity, more hold and deck space, a giant crane and a significantly bigger pallet hoist, alongside modern engines and hydraulic power units to give reliable service.
“The 12-person passenger lounge represents a new year-round sea link which I suspect will be very popular.”
Trip highlights
1. “Having been involved with the vessel replacement project for several years, seeing the vessels for the first time was undoubtedly a highlight.
2. “Meeting the engineers and shipyard workers who have built them. The pride and enthusiasm they have in their work was humbling.
3. “Experiencing a small part of Ho Chi Minh City. There was a real energy and dynamism apparent throughout the city. The traffic was absolutely crazy and quite a difference from St Agnes!”
A bright future
“When these vessels arrive in Penzance and Scilly I believe they will generate a huge amount of interest and support, attracting both existing and new passengers. The increased capacity and the improved stability of Scillonian IV will be a huge positive for all who travel on her.
“Watching Scillonian IV slowly emerge onto the river was unforgettable. She is clearly a natural evolution from Scillonian III. She is slightly larger, refined in design, but instantly recognisable. She already looks at home on the water and will, I believe, become an icon for the islands, just as Scillonian III has been for so many years.
“Together, these vessels position us extremely well for the future. We need ships that are stable, reliable, comfortable, and capable of meeting whatever challenges lie ahead. Despite the challenges faced globally and the realities of serving a remote island community, what has been created here gives real reason for optimism.”
Video podcast
Listen to Sam’s reflections alongside insight from the wider project team as Scillonian IV moves closer to entering service.
Menawethan will be joining the Isles of Scilly Freight fleet in June, with its official naming ceremony taking place on St Mary’s Quay on Wednesday 8th July. You can follow Menawethan’s journey every step of the way as she sails closer to Penzance here.