New vessels
Project overview
For 100 years we have provided a lifeline shipping service between Penzance and the islands for passengers and freight. With these new vessels we can meet the needs of islanders and visitors for decades more.
The current vessel, Scillonian III, was purpose-built for the company in 1977, and had a major refit in 2013. In 1989 the company bought the Gry Maritha freight ship, and she continues to supply the islands to this day.
In 2019 we started turning our attention to replacing these vessels and meeting the future demands of the island community.
Having consulted with and listened to the community, we found resilience, reliability, journey time and affordability to be the most important factors for any future services.
A unique route
The sea journey to the Isles of Scilly is unique. It requires vessels that can operate in a variety of sea conditions and within the constraints of Penzance harbour on the mainland and St Mary’s harbour on the islands.
For example, vessels must be able to sit on the seabed during low tide and ships need to have a shallow draft to get into St Mary’s harbour.
We also must consider what might happen in the future because any new vessels will serve the community for decades to come. Climate change means that we could see stronger winds with bigger waves, and the Government plans to decarbonise the marine sector by 2050.
The new vessels
Our new passenger ferry, Scillonian IV, will increase passenger capacity by 24%, enabling us to carry 600 passengers per sailing.
Scillonian IV will feature roll and pitch reduction systems (Hull Vane®) and anti-roll fin stabilisers, thereby enhancing passenger comfort, and is designed utilising modern propulsion technologies that improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
Meanwhile, our new freight vessel will significantly improve provision for chilled and frozen goods and increase overall freight capacity.
The freight vessel will be faster and more reliable, also incorporating a lounge with capacity for 12 passengers, providing a year-round passenger and freight sea link.
