As Scillonian III enters her final chapter, we’re celebrating her story, the people, and the memories that have made her such an enduring icon.
This commemorative video series brings together voices from those who know Scillonian III best – sharing personal stories and hopes for the future as we look ahead to Scillonian IV.
Steve Hicks
Board Director
“It’s impressive, not many ships continue operating into this age. She’s got that place in the history of the Isles, she’s been there through thick and thin and all those years. She’s been a very constant and reliable part of the fabric of daily life on the islands. I think she’s going to have a big legacy.”
Terry Ward
Former Board Director
“She’s a beautiful and iconic ship and a common sight in both Mount’s Bay and St Mary’s. I think she looks fantastic but it’s time for a change. I came down on the inaugural voyage in 1977, which is very precious to me. I can remember thinking, how lucky are we to be doing this?”
John Banfield
Former board member
John Banfield, who served as a board member for over a decade. shares his family’s long-standing connection to the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, along with his personal memories of Scillonian III – a ship that holds a special place in so many hearts.
Dave Redgrave
Scillonian III Master
“The start of her final season was a big day for us. It’s so nice to see the passengers again – some have travelled on the ship since it was launched. We’ve all grown to love her and it will be a sad day for us come the end of the season but we’re all looking forward to better things ahead.”
Gail Dunkley
Purser
“She’s very iconic. She’s nearly 49 years’ old. Everybody who lives around here knows who she is. It’s a beautiful crossing along our Cornish coast. When you first get a glimpse of the Isles of Scilly it’s like arriving in paradise.”
Pete Crawford
Former Scillonian III Master
“I don’t know of any other vessel that’s got the love that this vessel has received. I’ll be the one crying the most when she goes, everyone knows how much I love her. I’m looking forward to the arrival of Scillonian IV, but on a personal level – I will miss this one terribly.”
Andrew May
Former ISSG chairman
“My thoughts on Scillonian III’s final season and retirement are of gratitude, some sadness, and much excitement for what lies ahead. She has been around for most of my life and has played a formative and an important role in it, for which I am grateful.”
Joel Payne
Singer-songwriter
“She’s a genuine lifeline and a part of everyone’s story. Whole generations have passed while she has been faithfully serving the islands. There would be so many different ways to mark her retirement and I almost felt a responsibility to ensure I did my bit with a song.”
Andrew Walder
Board member
“I’ll be sad to see Scillonian III go. She’s served us for a very long time and deserves a rest. It’s the end of an era that has connected generations of islanders.”
Sholto Blackman
Scillonian III enthusiast
“She is the standout, welcoming sight in Penzance Harbour as you start your holiday to Scilly. She is like a friendly face waiting to greet you and so many people are familiar with her. She is also the last thing you see at the end of the holiday when you leave to return home.”
Victoria Bolitho
Former Scillonian III Master
“I remember sailing to the Isles of Scilly with my family on our boat and I saw Scillonian III leave the islands and I thought I thought I might work on that one day.”
Julia Walder
Former ISSG board member
“She’s such a lovely ship, and she’s beautiful to look at. That silhouette… she’s iconic. But it is time for a new ship. She’s done incredibly well to keep going for as long as she has.”
