The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group's (ISSG) passenger ferry Scillonian III recently departed on her first sailing of her final operational season with ISSG after nearly 50 years of service.
Since being acquired by ISSG, Scillonian III has provided a passenger link between Penzance and the Isles of Scilly, "becoming a much-loved and instantly recognisable part of island life for residents, businesses and visitors alike," the operator said in a press release.
The 2026 season, which will run until November, is the ferry's final year in service ISSG before she is replaced by Scillonian IV. The latter vessel is currently under construction. built and is scheduled to enter service in March of next year.
ISSG said that since entering service in 1977, Scillonian III has carried more than five million passengers to the Isles of Scilly, supporting tourism and the local economy.
The introduction of Scillonian IV next year will form part of ISSG's £40 million (US$50 million) investment programme, which will ensure modern and resilient passenger and freight services for the islands.
The new vessel will feature a range of new technologies and carry up to 600 passengers (a 24 per cent increase on current levels) whilst reducing journey times. It will also feature roll and pitch reduction systems to enhance passenger comfort.