The answer is yes – you can visit the Isles of Scilly for a day aboard Scillonian III.
At a glance:
🚢 Departs from Penzance Harbour
⏱️ Scenic 2 hour 45 minute crossing
🏝️ Around 4 hours to explore St Mary’s
🚶 Many of St Mary’s highlights are within walking distance of the quay
💷 Adult return day trip on Scillonian III is £35
🐶 Dogs are welcome on board Scillonian III
Why choose the Isles of Scilly for a day trip?
Departing from Penzance, our passenger ferry Scillonian III takes you on a scenic 2 hour 45 minute voyage, sailing you 28 miles across the sea to the Isles of Scilly. Unlike many day trips in Cornwall, the journey itself is part of the adventure, with spectacular coastal scenery and the chance to spot dolphins, seals and seabirds along the way. Once on St Mary’s you will have around four hours to explore beautiful beaches, independent shops, cafés, historic landmarks and scenic coastal walks before sailing back to Penzance. Whether you’re a local looking for a unique day out or enjoying a holiday in Cornwall, it’s an unforgettable experience that feels a world away.
Explore St Mary’s
As the largest island in the archipelago, St Mary’s offers beautiful beaches, coastal walks, cafés, shops and historic landmarks, all within easy reach of the quay. Use our map to discover many of St Mary’s free points of interest, complete with approximate walking times from St Mary’s Quay, where Scillonian III arrives and departs, making it easy for you to plan your day.
Not sure how to spend your time?
As the map shows, many of St Mary’s best sites are just a short walk from the quay, making it easy to experience plenty during your visit. If it’s your first visit and you’d like a little inspiration and you are not sure how much you can fit in, here is one way to make the most of your four hours on St Mary’s. Expect breathtaking coastal scenery, fascinating wildlife, delicious local food and plenty of opportunities to discover the island’s rich history.
08:15 – Arrive at Penzance Harbour
Check in at South Pier and board Scillonian III. Find a seat, explore the ship and get ready for a memorable day on the Isles of Scilly.
09:15 – Set sail for the Isles of Scilly
Your island adventure begins. As you leave Mount’s Bay, keep an eye out for iconic Cornish landmarks such as Minack Theatre and Land’s End before heading into the open sea.
10:00 – Enjoy a treat from the onboard café
Why not grab a coffee, light snack or something sweet from the café while you take in the spectacular sea views?
10:30 – Watch for wildlife
The Scillonian III route has been recognised as the UK’s best ferry route for marine wildlife for four consecutive years. Head out on deck and see if you can spot dolphins, porpoises, seals, basking sharks or even whales, depending on the season.
11:30 – First glimpse of the islands
Make your way outside and see who will be the first to spot the Isles of Scilly appearing on the horizon.
12:00 – Arrive on St Mary’s
Disembark onto St Mary’s Quay and begin exploring the largest island in the archipelago.
12:15 – Picnic by the sea
Pick up lunch from one of Hugh Town’s cafés, bakeries or delis and enjoy a picnic overlooking the crystal-clear waters at Porthcressa Beach.
13:15 – Explore the Garrison
From Porthcressa Beach, walk up the Sally Port steps to the Garrison. This gentle circular walk follows the historic coastal path past Woolpack Battery, King Charles’ Battery and the impressive Star Castle, before climbing to Garrison Hill for panoramic views across the islands. Finish by walking through the historic Garrison Gate into Hugh Town.
14:30 – Discover Hugh Town
Spend some time browsing independent shops, local galleries and artisan stores, or simply relax with an ice cream or coffee by the harbour.
15:30 – Return to St Mary’s Quay
Head back to the quay in plenty of time for boarding.
15:45 – Board Scillonian III for your return journey
Find a comfortable seat or head out on deck one last time to soak up the sea views as you sail back towards Cornwall.
16:30 – Set sail for Cornwall
Wave goodbye to the islands as Scillonian III begins the return journey to Penzance.
19:15 – Arrive back in Penzance
Disembark at Penzance Harbour, bringing an incredible Isles of Scilly trip to a close.
Our itinerary is just one way to spend your day. If you’d rather explore at your own pace, browse our experience portal for even more ideas, including guided experiences, boat trips and other bookable attractions.
How much is a Scillonian III day trip?
A day trip aboard Scillonian III is affordable and costs little more than admission to many of Cornwall’s leading attractions – yet instead of spending the day in one spot, you’ll enjoy a scenic 2 hour and 45 minute sea voyage to discover an entirely new island. It’s a magical adventure and easily one of Cornwall’s best-value days out.
Scillonian III day trip fares (reduced rates available for Cornwall residents):
- Adults: £35
- Children (2-11): £17.50
- Infants (under 2): £10.50
- Dogs: £15.00 – please call our Passenger Relations team to book this fare.
Ready to experience it yourself?
Whether you’re discovering the Isles of Scilly for the first time or sharing them with family and friends, it’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression and keeps visitors coming back year after year. Day trips aboard Scillonian III are popular, especially during the summer months, so book online today to secure your seats and start planning your island adventure.