Isles of Scilly Steamship Group's new ferry Scillonian IV begins two-month voyage to UK

The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group's new passenger ferry, Scillonian IV, departed Vietnam for the UK at 06:00 local time on Saturday, beginning a two-month voyage via the Cape of Good Hope ahead of entering service in March 2027, the BBC reported. The 75m vessel can carry 600 passengers and will replace Scillonian III.

Scillonian IV's Route From Ho Chi Minh City

Scillonian IV left Ho Chi Minh City on the same route taken by the freight vessel Menawethan earlier this year. The ferry is 75m (246ft) long and has capacity for 600 passengers.

Ian Howard, chairman of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, was in Vietnam for the departure. "Watching Scillonian IV leave Vietnam and begin her journey home was a hugely significant moment for everyone involved in bringing the vessel to life," he said.

Howard said reaching this stage reflected the work of the teams who oversaw construction and the people who contributed to the project. "We're now looking forward to welcoming her closer to home and beginning the next phase of preparations ahead of her entry into service in March," he said.

He added that the company knows how important Scillonian IV is to the future of the Isles of Scilly and is excited to be one step closer to introducing her to the communities and visitors she will serve.

Isles of Scilly Travel is the consumer brand of the 1920-founded, privately held Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, which operates the scheduled passenger ferry and Skybus air services linking the Isles of Scilly to mainland Cornwall, along with freight, accommodation and NHS-funded medical transport.

Scillonian III's Final Season Before Replacement

According to akta.pro company records, Scillonian III has been in continuous service since 1977, when it was launched by Prince Charles, and 2026 is its final season before replacement by Scillonian IV. The same records list Scillonian IV as planned to enter service in March 2027 with capacity for 600 passengers and a smoother sailing to the islands.

The Isles of Scilly archipelago consists of five inhabited islands, St Mary's, St Martin's, Tresco, Bryher and St Agnes, plus numerous uninhabited islands, and sits 28 miles off the coast of Cornwall.

March 2027 Service Entry

Scillonian IV is scheduled to enter service in March 2027, according to the BBC. The company's own announcement describes the vessel as starting a new era of travel to the Isles of Scilly.