Some places feel distant from everyday life, yet are closer and more convenient than you might expect. But the Isles of Scilly are refreshingly close and easy to experience in a single unforgettable day. On selected double-sailing days, you can enjoy extended time on the islands, with up to 7 hours and 45 minutes ashore. This offers the chance to step into a slower way of life, surrounded by clear waters, white sandy beaches and unspoilt island scenery, all without the need for an overnight stay.
Your journey on board Scillonian III is part of the experience. Named the UK’s most diverse ferry route for wildlife sightings for the fourth year running, the crossing offers a front-row seat to some of Britain’s most captivating coastal scenery and marine life. Passengers are often rewarded with sightings of dolphins and seabirds, as the Cornish coastline slowly fades into the distance.
More time to explore
Even on a standard day trip, the Isles of Scilly offer a rewarding change of pace. Spend around four and a half hours ashore, giving you time to explore, enjoy a leisurely meal, and begin to settle into island life.
However, on double sailing days, extended schedules allow for over seven hours on the islands, offering the freedom to wander further, pause longer, and experience more of what the islands have to offer. With the extra time, you’re free to explore further, hop between islands and truly settle into the rhythm of Scilly life.
For example, you could:
- Arrive on St Mary’s by 9.30am, wander through Hugh Town and hop on a mid-morning boat to an off island.
- Stand on the powder-white sands of St Martin’s by 10:30am, enjoying a morning coffee overlooking turquoise water.
- Spend the afternoon swimming, walking coastal paths, visiting art galleries or enjoying a long lazy lunch with sea views.
- Return to St Mary’s with time to browse shops, explore The Garrison or enjoy a final harbour-side drink before sailing home.
- Head back to the quay an hour before departure to check in for your journey home.
Regular inter-island boats make every island reachable, and with the extended time on the islands, you can fully explore without rushing.
To help plan your perfect day, we’ve created sample itineraries on our website, offering inspiration for different interests, from beach lovers to walkers and foodies. Find out more here: Day Trip Experiences on the Isles of Scilly | Isles of Scilly Travel
Double sailing days on the Isles of Scilly
| Date | Arrival | Departure | Time on the islands |
|---|---|---|---|
| April | |||
| Monday 30th | 9:30 | 17:15 | 7 hours, 45 minutes |
| May | |||
| Monday 4th | 10:15 | 18:00 | 7 hours, 45 minutes |
| Saturday 23rd | 9:30 | 17:15 | 7 hours, 45 minutes |
| Saturday 30th | 09:30 | 17:15 | 7 hours, 45 minutes |
| July | |||
| Saturday 25th | 09:30 | 17:15 | 7 hours, 45 minutes |
| August | |||
| Saturday 1st | 11:15 | 19:00 | 7 hours, 45 minutes |
| Saturday 8th | 09:30 | 17:15 | 7 hours, 45 minutes |
| Saturday 15th | 08:15 | 16:00 | 7 hours, 45 minutes |
| Saturday 22nd | 9:30 | 17:15 | 7 hours, 45 minutes |
| Saturday 29th | 10:30 | 18:15 | 7 hours, 45 minutes |
| September | |||
| Saturday 5th | 09:30 | 17:15 | 7 hours, 45 minutes |
These sailings are always in high demand!
Availability can change quickly, so we recommend booking early to secure your spot.
The ultimate day out in Cornwall for £35
For just £35 per person, a Scillonian day trip offers an unforgettable adventure, whether it is an extension to your Cornish holiday or a unique day out with a difference. Scillonian III Day Trip Offer – Isles of Scilly Travel
Local to Cornwall? Take advantage of our special £25 locals’ fare and discover the Isles of Scilly for yourself by using the discount code: LOCALSC326 when booking.
Visit here to see full offer terms: Locals’ Offer 2026 – Isles of Scilly Travel
FARES
| Adult 12+ | Child | Infant | Extras |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scillonian III | |||
| £35.00 | £17.50 | £10.50 | |
| Skybus | |||
| From £149.00 | From £119.00 | From £52.00 | |
| Fly + Sail | |||
| From £97.99 | From £74.74 | From £38.62 | Bus transfer £8.00 |
More ways to experience Scilly in a day
Fly, sail or enjoy the best of both!
You can shape your Isles of Scilly day trip to suit you. Travel entirely by sea on board Scillonian III for a relaxed, scenic crossing, or choose from flexible options that maximise your time on the islands. Scillonian III Day Trip Offer – Isles of Scilly Travel
Fly + Sail gives you the best of both worlds: a scenic sea journey one way and a fast, convenient flight the other. Fly+Sail Day Trip – Isles of Scilly Travel
For those keen to spend as much time ashore as possible, Skybus day trips offer the quickest route to Scilly, with flights from Land’s End taking just 20 minutes. Skybus Day Trip Offer – Isles of Scilly Travel
Whichever way you choose to travel, every option offers a unique way to experience the magic of Scilly in a single, unforgettable day.