Isles of Scilly Travel

Lifeline Ferry & Air Services to the Isles of Scilly

For over a century, Isles of Scilly Travel, part of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, has been the backbone of transport between the Isles of Scilly and mainland Cornwall. Established in 1920 by islanders themselves, the company has grown into a trusted provider of passenger ferry, air travel, and freight services, ensuring year-round connectivity for residents and visitors alike.

From the iconic Scillonian passenger ferries to the Skybus airline, Isles of Scilly Travel has evolved with time while retaining its mission: “Founded on Scilly, for Scilly.”

A Legacy of Service

The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group began with the commissioning of the first Scillonian ferry in 1926, reducing travel time from Penzance and opening up new opportunities for trade and tourism. Over the decades, the Group expanded into aviation with the launch of Skybus in 1984, providing quicker connections from Land’s End, Newquay, and Exeter airports.

Today, the company operates multiple vessels including Scillonian III, the freight ship Gry Maritha, and the inter-island Lyonesse Lady, alongside a modern Skybus fleet of DHC-6 Twin Otter and BN2 Islander aircraft. With new vessels (Scillonian IV and Menawethan) already commissioned, Isles of Scilly Travel is actively shaping the next era of lifeline services.

Services Offered

• • Passenger Ferry: Scillonian III connects Penzance to St Mary’s, offering a scenic and vital sea link.

• • Air Travel (Skybus): Scheduled flights with Twin Otters and Islanders provide fast and reliable connections to and from the mainland.

• • Freight Services: Dedicated cargo ships ensure the flow of essential goods, including agricultural exports like flowers and local produce.

• • Island Connectivity: Inter-island vessels such as Lyonesse Lady guarantee smooth logistics for residents and businesses.

Innovation & Sustainability

The Group’s commitment to innovation is evident in projects like exploring hydrogen-powered aircraft and supporting drone delivery initiatives for the islands. Environmental responsibility is at the heart of operations, with continuous efforts to minimize emissions, reduce waste, and improve efficiency.

Client Benefits & Advantages

Choosing Isles of Scilly Travel means more than just transport-it’s about reliability, heritage, and community:

• • Over 100 years of uninterrupted service connecting the Isles of Scilly to the mainland.

• • Multiple transport options (air, ferry, and freight) ensuring resilient year-round connectivity.

• • A reputation for safety, trust, and excellence, recognized by locals and visitors alike.

• • Investments in next-generation vessels and sustainable aviation technologies.

• • Deep-rooted ties with the community, carrying millions of passengers and 20 million flower stems annually.

Quick Facts

• • Founded: 1920

• • Employees: 200+

• • Fleet: Scillonian III, Gry Maritha, Lyonesse Lady, Skybus aircraft

• • Headquarters: Steamship House, Quay Street, Penzance, Cornwall

• • New Fleet: Scillonian IV and Menawethan scheduled for delivery post-2024

• • Annual Cargo: Over 20 million flower stems transported to the mainland

Contact Information

Address: Steamship House, Quay Street, Penzance, Cornwall TR18 4BZ, United Kingdom Phone: +44 (0)1736 334220 Email: sales@islesofscilly-travel.co.uk Website: www.islesofscilly-travel.co.uk