Since Scillonian III entered service in 1977, there have been a number of people who have had the important job of being her Master.
Across nearly five decades, different Masters have taken their turn at the helm, bringing their own experience, stories and knowledge of the route between Penzance and the Isles of Scilly. They’ve sailed through calm seas, rough weather, busy summer crossings and more than a few memorable moments along the way.
The ship and the journey may have stayed the same, but the people in charge have changed, each playing their own part in Scillonian III’s story.
So, what is it really like to be the person responsible for getting Scillonian III safely across the 28 miles to Scilly? And who are the people who have held that role over the years?
Here’s a look back at some of the Masters who have taken the helm of Scillonian III.
Harvey Thomas 1977 – 1977
When Scillonian III entered service in 1977, Harvey Thomas became the vessel’s first Master, taking the helm for her maiden season and introducing a new era of travel between Penzance and the Isles of Scilly.
Paul Row 1977 – 2001
Paul Row took over as Master of Scillonian III from Harvey Thomas, going on to spend more than two decades at the helm until May 2001. During his time as Master, Paul experienced a range of conditions while guiding passengers between Penzance and the Isles of Scilly.
During his time on Scillonian III, he experienced everything from sightings of hundreds of dolphins off the bow of the ship to coming to the rescue of a wrecked vessel.
From regular crossings to the unexpected situations that could arise at sea, Paul’s more than two decades as Master form an important part of Scillonian III’s history.
David Pascoe 2001 – 2010
David Pascoe joined Scillonian III in 1982, first serving as Relief Master before taking the helm as Master in 2001. During his nine years in command, he became part of the close-knit community that has made the vessel so special to generations of passengers, islanders and crew.
Peter Crawford 2002 – 2022
Peter Crawford joined Scillonian III in 1983 as a Radio Officer before progressing to Chief Officer in 1992. In 2002, he became Master, taking the helm of the much-loved passenger ferry and going on to guide her for the next 20 years.
During his time on board, Pete experienced the very different pace of summer and winter, with the crew carrying out maintenance and preparing the vessel for the next season. He also enjoyed being at sea and the opportunity to spot wildlife along the route, with sightings over the years including Minke whales, Risso’s dolphins and leatherback turtles.
Although Pete stepped down as Master in 2022, he still returns to support Scillonian III as Relief Master. After more than 40 years on board, his knowledge of the vessel and the route remains an invaluable part of the crew.
As Scillonian III enters her final season, Pete’s connection with the vessel remains strong. “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.”
Victoria Bolitho 2022 – 2026
Victoria Bolitho became Master of Scillonian III in 2022 after previously serving as Chief Officer. But her connection with the vessel goes back much further. As a child, Victoria remembers sailing to the Isles of Scilly with her family and watching Scillonian III leave the islands, thinking, “I might work on that one day.”
That childhood ambition became a reality when Victoria began training for a career at sea at 22. A decade later, she achieved her Master’s Unlimited qualification and went on to take the helm of Scillonian III, taking over from Pete Crawford and becoming a familiar face to passengers and crew.
“Passing my Master’s Unlimited qualification was an achievement which made me really proud,” Victoria said, reflecting on reaching the role.
Victoria has now moved on to a new chapter as a marine pilot with ABP in Southampton. Looking back on her time with Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, she said: “It was a privilege to be Master of Scillonian III. I will miss the ship and its crew dearly.”
David Redgrave 2010 – Current
David Redgrave has been an integral part of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group since 2003, when he joined as Mate aboard Gry Maritha before progressing to Master in 2006. In 2010, David moved to Scillonian III, where he has been Master of the passenger vessel ever since.
David’s career at sea began much earlier. At just 17, he started working as a deckhand with Crescent Shipping, later gaining his first Certificate of Competency and a placement as Second Mate. He continued to work towards higher qualifications, before achieving his Master’s Certificate of Competency. David then spent 15 years with Falmouth Oil Services, progressing from Mate to Mate/Master before joining the Steamship Group.
His progression gave David the experience and confidence to take on new challenges, eventually leading him to the bridge of Scillonian III. More than 20 years after joining the Steamship Group, he continues to enjoy life at sea and the variety that comes with the role.
“After all these years I still love being at work on a ship,” David said. “What really makes it for me is the camaraderie with my fellow seafarers, the challenges and variation that comes with no two days being the same, problem solving and the ability to build on my experiences and skills.”
As Scillonian III entered her final season, David reflected on what the vessel means to those who have worked on her and travelled aboard her: “The start of her final season was a big day for us. It was 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.”
Joseph Whetton 2026 – Current
Joe Whetton joined Scillonian III earlier this year as Master for her final season, bringing with him more than a decade of maritime experience across cruise ships, superyachts, general cargo vessels and LNG carriers.
His connection to Scillonian III, however, also began long before his career at sea. Joe travelled on the vessel with his family as a child, making his return to the bridge as Master a particularly special moment. “I used to travel on Scillonian III on family holidays as a child, so to be on the bridge as Master is a real honour,” he said.
Before joining the Steamship Group, Joe worked as Risk and Investigation Manager for the Carnival UK fleet, having previously held senior bridge roles with Royal Caribbean International and Marella Cruises. He also regularly visits the Isles of Scilly to dive and, after deciding to return to sea, was particularly drawn to a role supporting the lifeline service to the local community.
“She’s a classic ship and is not only well recognised but also much-loved by so many people. I’m looking forward to being part of her story.”
As Scillonian III sails through her final season, we’re celebrating the people who have helped make every crossing possible. Their dedication, experience and care have helped make Scillonian III the much-loved vessel she is today.
