St Mary's Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

The primary route to St Mary's is aboard the Scillonian III passenger ferry, which sails from Penzance in Cornwall, with crossings taking approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes across the scenic waters of the Celtic Sea. Travelers can reach Penzance via direct trains from London Paddington (roughly 5-6 hours) or by road along the A30. For those seeking faster transport, small aircraft services operate from Land's End Airport (15-minute flight), Newquay, and Exeter to St Mary's Airport, though most visitors prefer the classic ferry approach. Once in Penzance, the ferry terminal is easily accessible by taxi or a 15-minute walk from the train station, with ample long-stay parking facilities available nearby for those arriving by car.

St Mary's stands as the vibrant heart of the Isles of Scilly, an archipelago of stunning natural beauty off the Cornish coast. This charming island combines quaint village atmosphere with breathtaking coastal landscapes, serving as the main entry point for ferry travelers to this idyllic corner of Britain. Visitors stepping onto St Mary's shores are greeted by crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and the gentle pace of island life that instantly washes away mainland stresses.

St Mary's enjoys a remarkably mild climate compared to mainland Britain, with spring arriving early and winter's grip softening sooner. The peak season runs from May through September, offering warm temperatures and the fullest ferry schedule with daily sailings. July and August bring the warmest weather and busiest beaches, while May and June showcase spectacular wildflowers and nesting seabirds. The shoulder months of April and October present a peaceful alternative with fewer visitors and often surprisingly pleasant weather, though ferry services become less frequent. Winter visits (November-March) offer a truly authentic island experience with dramatic seascapes, but travelers should note that ferry crossings can be weather-dependent during these months.

St Mary's serves as the perfect jumping-off point for exploring the surrounding islands of the Scilly archipelago. Tresco, just a 20-minute ferry hop away, houses the world-famous Abbey Gardens with its subtropical plants thriving in the mild climate. St Agnes, reached in about 30 minutes by boat, offers rugged coastal walks and the southernmost pub in the UK, the Turk's Head. The twin islands of St Martin's and Bryher (both approximately 25 minutes by ferry) charm visitors with their pristine white sand beaches and sense of blissful isolation. Island-hopping between these destinations creates an unforgettable maritime experience, with each isle having its own distinct character while sharing the Scillies' remarkable natural beauty.

St Mary's packs remarkable diversity into its 2.5 square miles, with activities centered around its stunning natural environment. The coastal path circling the island offers breathtaking views across turquoise waters, particularly spectacular along the rugged northern coast near Halangy Down. History enthusiasts will appreciate the Isles of Scilly Museum in Hugh Town and the prehistoric village at Bant's Carn. For food lovers, fresh seafood shines at local establishments like The Atlantic and Juliet's Garden, where locally caught crab and lobster feature prominently. Hugh Town itself deserves exploration with its charming shops, galleries, and the bustling quay area where boats come and go throughout the day. Water enthusiasts can try snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Porthcressa Beach or join boat trips to spot seals, puffins, and even dolphins in the surrounding waters.

St Mary's harbors fascinating historical secrets, including its surprising role during WWII when it served as a base for flying boats and maritime patrol aircraft protecting Atlantic convoys. The island enjoys the UK's mildest climate, which has allowed it to become the country's flower farming capital, with narcissi blooming as early as October when mainland Britain is preparing for winter. Archaeological enthusiasts might be amazed to learn that the Isles of Scilly contain over 238 scheduled monuments, giving them the highest concentration of historic sites in Britain. The island's Star Castle, now a hotel, was built in 1593 in the distinctive shape of an eight-pointed star as a garrison to protect against Spanish invasion.