Getting around the islands

Getting Between the Islands

Island hopping is a highlight of any trip to the Isles of Scilly, made easy by a network of local “tripper” boats operated by the St. Mary’s Boatmen’s Association, St. Agnes Boating, Tresco Boat Services, and other independent operators. These boats run daily scheduled trips from April to October, with hundreds of weekly services connecting the inhabited islands — St. Mary’s, Tresco, St. Martin’s, St. Agnes, and Bryher—as well as uninhabited isles for wildlife tours or picnics.

From St. Mary’s: As the main hub, St. Mary’s is the starting point for most inter-island travel. Boats depart from Hugh Town Quay, with morning services typically between 10:00 and 10:30 AM and afternoon trips around 2:00 PM. Tickets can be purchased at the dock or on board, and blackboards display daily schedules, which vary due to tides. For example, trips to Tresco depart at 10:00, 10:15, 11:15, 12:15, and 2:00, with returns at 2:15, 3:45, and 4:45.

Other Islands: St. Agnes Boating and Tresco Boat Services offer direct trips to and from their respective islands, often meeting the Scillonian III ferry or Skybus arrivals for seamless transfers. Winter services are limited, with St. Agnes Boating running weekly trips to St. Mary’s on Thursdays.

Wildlife and Sightseeing: Beyond scheduled trips, operators like Seaquest Glass Bottom Boat and Endeavour Rib Service provide excursions to see puffins, seals, and the Bishop Rock Lighthouse. Private charters are available for personalized adventures, such as sunset cruises or deep-sea fishing.

Tips: Check tide-dependent schedules on operators’ social media or at the quay. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially for popular destinations like Tresco. For a unique experience, consider joining a guided tour to uninhabited isles like Samson.

St. Mary’s: The Gateway Island

As the largest and most populated island, St. Mary’s (population ~1,723) is the archipelago’s hub, home to Hugh Town, the main port, and most tourist facilities. Its 2.5 square miles offer a blend of history, beaches, and vibrant local culture, making it an ideal base for first-time visitors.

Things to Do

Explore Hugh Town: Wander through this charming village with its independent shops, cafes, and pubs like The Atlantic or On the Quay. Visit the Isles of Scilly Museum to delve into the islands’ history, from Neolithic times to the 1707 HMS Association shipwreck.

Historical Sites: The Garrison, a 350-year-old coastal defense system, offers stunning views of Tresco and Samson. Walk to Bant’s Carn Burial Chamber or Halangy Down Ancient Village for a glimpse of Bronze Age life.

Beaches and Water Activities: Porthmellon Beach is perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding, with rentals at the Sailing Centre. Join a Scilly Rockpool Safari to explore marine life with kids.

Cycling and Golf Buggies: Hire a bike from St. Mary’s Cycle Hire or a yellow golf buggy to tour the island’s traffic-free roads. Guided minibus tours run twice daily, covering key sights.

Unique Features

Gig Racing: From April to September, watch weekly gig races (ladies on Wednesdays, men on Fridays) around 8:00 PM, a traditional Scillonian sport. Follow the races by boat for a front-row view.

Holy Vale Vineyard: Taste Pinot Noir and Chardonnay at this vineyard in Maypole, offering wine tastings and a “Story of Wine” exhibition.

Tresco: Sub-Tropical Luxury

Tresco, the second-largest island, is a privately-run haven known for its luxury accommodations and tranquil vibe. Car-free and serene, it’s a favorite for families and those seeking a refined escape.

Things to Do

Tresco Abbey Garden: The island’s star attraction, this sub-tropical garden boasts over 20,000 exotic plants from Brazil to South Africa, thriving in Scilly’s mild climate. Explore the Valhalla Museum, displaying 30 shipwreck figureheads. Open daily 10:00 AM–4:00 PM, entry £18 for adults.

Historical Forts: Walk to Cromwell’s Castle (1651), a Cromwellian fort guarding the channel to Bryher, and King Charles’s Castle, a 1550s ruin. Both offer panoramic views.

Beaches and Water Sports: Pentle Bay’s peaceful sands are ideal for swimming. Hire kayaks or join a sailing session to explore the coast.

Cycling: Rent bikes to navigate Tresco’s flat, scenic paths, perfect for covering the island in a few hours.

St. Martin’s: A Beach Paradise

St. Martin’s, with its mile-long white sand beaches and Caribbean-like waters, is a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Its small population (142) ensures a peaceful escape.

Things to Do

Beachcombing and Swimming: Par Beach and Great Bay are stunning, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming or shell collecting. It's a perfect location of snorkelling and you will often find paddleboards and other water sports available to hire on the beach.

Daymark Walk: Hike to the iconic red-and-white Daymark on St. Martin’s Head for one of the best views in Scilly, overlooking the archipelago.

St. Agnes: The Wild Outpost

St. Agnes, the most south-westerly inhabited island, is a rugged, untamed beauty with a close-knit community. Its isolation and wild landscapes make it a haven for adventurers.

Things to Do

Coastal Walks: Explore scenic paths to Wingletang Down, home to Bronze Age sites and barren heathland. The tombolo to Gugh, accessible at low tide, offers dramatic views.

Troytown Farm: Sample ice cream made from their small herd, especially the unique rose geranium flavor. The farm also offers camping and glamping.

Wildlife Safaris: Join St. Agnes Boating’s Wednesday wildlife safaris with the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust to spot seabirds and seals.

Turks Head Pub: Enjoy a pint at this cozy pub with views over the quay, a perfect spot to soak up St. Agnes’ laid-back vibe.

The Isles of Scilly offer a magical escape where time slows down, and nature takes center stage. Whether you’re island hopping by boat, snorkelling with seals, or savoring local gin under starry skies, each island’s unique charm ensures an unforgettable holiday. Plan your trip, embrace the adventure, and let Scilly’s beauty captivate you.