Scillonian III ends 49-year run with final crossing to Penzance
The ship that served the Isles of Scilly since 1977 completed its last 37 nautical mile journey Sunday, with a successor arriving in March.
By Kevin Iyer ·
Passengers on the Isles of Scilly faced a new reality on Sunday as the Scillonian III completed its final voyage to Penzance. The ship has been the primary link between the islands and the mainland for nearly half a century. Its departure marks the end of a 49-year service that defined daily life for residents and visitors alike.
The vessel completed a 37 nautical mile journey from St Mary's to Cornwall. It has sailed more than 10,000 times since entering service in 1977. During that time, it transported islanders, holidaymakers, and birdwatchers between spring and autumn each year. The ship earned the nickname the vomit comet due to its tendency to roll heavily in stormy weather.
Terry Ward, who took the ship's maiden voyage in 1977, said the community has been discussing the final trip for weeks. His great-grandfather was the founding chair of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group. Ward recalled the first journey from north Devon as a magical experience on a calm sea. He noted that the ship's arrival each March signaled the start of the tourist season, while its autumn departure left a void.
Regular passengers developed specific habits on board. Dolphin and basking shark watchers preferred the open areas for a clear view. Others sought the lower deck where the engine noise helped them sleep. Ray Jackman, a local businessman present for both the first and last trips, always sat near the engine room to watch the crew work. He described the ship as amazing and called the farewell a sad day.
The Scillonian III is the third vessel of its name to serve the islands. The original Scillonian operated from 1926 to 1956 and served as a military transport during the Second World War. Scillonian II served for 25 years before being replaced by the current ship, which was launched by the then Prince Charles.
The steamship company expected only a few dozen passengers for the final sailing, but tickets sold out. A shanty group called Mackerel Sky sang the ship off from the islands. The Cape Cornwall Singers waited in Penzance to welcome it. The farewell continued at the Dock Inn with music, dancing, and tears.
Sholto Blackwell, a crane operator from near Bristol, was among those on board. He founded a Facebook appreciation page for the ship that has nearly 5,000 members. He has made 30 or 40 return trips since childhood. Blackwell said the end of the service marks the close of an era for him, noting that seasickness was part of the fun because the reward was arriving in Scilly.
A replacement vessel is already on its way. Scillonian IV is traveling from south east Asia to the islands via the Cape of Good Hope. The steamship company says the new ship will make its maiden voyage in March. It will carry more passengers and travel faster. The vessel features roll and pitch reduction systems designed to soften the impact of Atlantic swells.
