This National Marine Week (25th July – 9th August), discover the incredible marine wildlife that makes the Isles of Scilly one of the UK’s most remarkable coastal destinations.
Just 28 miles off the coast of Cornwall, the archipelago is home to crystal-clear waters, thriving seagrass meadows and an abundance of marine life.
Designated as a National Landscape, the islands provide an important habitat for everything from playful grey seals and puffins to dolphins, whales and basking sharks. These special habitats are protected and cared for with the support of the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust (IOSWT).
Whether you’re travelling for a day trip on board Scillonian III or planning a longer island escape, the journey is all part of the adventure, with wildlife encounters often beginning before you even arrive.
Let’s look at some of the Isles of Scilly’s special marine species.
Grey seals
Grey seals are one of the Isles of Scilly’s most recognisable residents. Whether they’re basking on offshore rocks or curiously popping their heads above the water, these playful mammals are a highlight for many visitors.
Best time to spot: All year round.
Puffins
Possibly our favourite seabird, and tricky to spot. Puffins visit the Isles of Scilly between April and July to breed, making spring and early summer the best time to catch a glimpse of these much-loved seabirds.
Best time to spot: April to July.
Storm petrels
The Isles of Scilly are England’s most important breeding ground for these tiny and elusive seabirds. They can occasionally be spotted during the Scillonian III crossing, but your best chance is on one of the special evening pelagic boat trips from St Mary’s.
Best time to spot: April to August.
Wildlife spotting on Scillonian III
For many visitors, the wildlife experience begins the moment Scillonian III leaves Penzance Harbour. The 2-hour 45-minute crossing passes through some of the UK’s richest marine waters, making it one of Britain’s best ferry journeys for wildlife watching. Named by charity ORCA as the UK’s highest diversity ferry route for wildlife spotting, the crossing offers the chance to see common dolphins, harbour porpoises, basking sharks and even whales before you reach the islands.
Since 2009, ORCA has carried out marine mammal surveys on board Scillonian III, helping to monitor the incredible diversity of species found between Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
Every crossing is different, making each journey an exciting wildlife adventure.
More marine wildlife to discover
While dolphins and seals often steal the spotlight, the Isles of Scilly’s waters are also home to an incredible variety of marine creatures. Look out for colourful starfish, sea anemones, spider crabs and jellyfish in the islands’ clear waters, or spend time exploring the shoreline at low tide, where rock pools reveal a fascinating underwater world.
Isles of Scilly wildlife experiences
If you didn’t spot anything during your Scillonian III crossing, or perhaps you have flown across to the Isles of Scilly on board Skybus, don’t worry, there are plenty more opportunities to catch a glimpse of wildlife once you’ve arrived.
Join the Reid family for a fun and fascinating Scilly Rockpool Safari, perfect for the whole family. Slip into your wellies and learn how to find and identify a wide range of weird and wonderful creatures at low tide.
If you are comfortable swimming in open water, why not book a trip out to the Eastern Isles with Seal Snorkelling Adventures and watch the wild seals swimming effortlessly in their natural environment? It truly is a fabulous experience and if you’re lucky, you might even get a close encounter as the seals come over to say ‘hello’ and play.
If you prefer to observe wildlife without getting wet, then St Agnes Boating Wildlife Safaris may be for you. These special trips depart every Wednesday from St Agnes with an on board guide from the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust. Or try Scilly Pelagics, wildlife boat tours organised by members of St Mary’s Boatmen Association.
Wildlife watching responsibly – top tips
The Isles of Scilly’s wildlife is one of its greatest treasures, so it’s important to enjoy it responsibly.
- Give wildlife plenty of space.
- Never feed seals or seabirds.
- Leave beaches and rock pools exactly as you found them.
- Follow guidance from local wildlife operators.
- Take only photographs and memories home with you.
Book your Isles of Scilly adventure…
Whether you’re hoping to spot dolphins from the deck of Scillonian III, snorkel alongside curious grey seals or simply enjoy exploring the islands’ spectacular coastline, the Isles of Scilly offer unforgettable wildlife experiences throughout the year.
This National Marine Week, why not experience it for yourself? Book a day trip or longer island escape and discover the incredible wildlife waiting just 28 miles off the Cornish coast.