Port information & tips for St. Mary's (Isles of Scilly)
St. Mary’s is the enchanting gateway to the Isles of Scilly and captivates with its extraordinary, almost subtropical flair off the coast of Cornwall. The island welcomes visitors with a relaxed atmosphere, crystal-clear waters, and lush flora that thrives thanks to the mild Gulf Stream. In the immediate vicinity, the historic fortifications of the Garrison Walls invite you for a panoramic stroll, while the fine white sand of Porthcressa Bay offers ideal moments of relaxation right on the edge of the main town. Cruise passengers reach the island center comfortably by tender boat at the central St. Mary's Pier, located directly in Hugh Town, ensuring that galleries, small boutiques, and local sights are all within a few minutes' walk thanks to the prime location.
Getting to the Isles of Scilly and especially to the main town of St. Mary's is a charming adventure, as the archipelago lies southwest off the coast of Cornwall and has no direct road or rail connection from the mainland. Cruise ships usually anchor off St. Mary's Roads or Crow Sound, and guests are brought by tender boats to the center of Hugh Town, the lively main town and tourist hub of the island.
Airplane & Onward Travel
Arrival from the DACH region typically involves flying to a major British airport, followed by a comfortable onward journey. Direct flights to the Isles of Scilly (St. Mary's Airport, ISC) depart from the regional airports of Land's End (LEQ), Newquay (NQY), and Exeter (EXT) via Skybus. Flight times vary from 15 minutes from Land's End, 30 minutes from Newquay, and approximately 60 minutes from Exeter. For travelers heading to Penzance for the ferry crossing, direct trains from London Paddington offer a scenic and convenient journey.
The Ferry from Penzance
A popular and scenic option is the ferry crossing with the Scillonian III from Penzance in Cornwall. The ferry operates from late March to late October and reaches St. Mary's in about 2 hours and 45 minutes. Penzance is easily accessible via the A30 motorway. For ferry passengers, parking is available at the harbor or through providers such as "Scilly Park and Ride" and "Scillonian Parking Penzance," which offer shuttles to the departure point. Penzance railway station is also just a short walk (approx. 5-10 minutes) from the ferry terminal.
Travel by Skybus & Pre-Cruise Hotel
For a flexible and fast journey to the Isles of Scilly, the Skybus flight is an excellent choice. These flights depart from Land's End (LEQ), Newquay (NQY), and Exeter (EXT), with flight times between 15 and 60 minutes to St. Mary's. The airline Isles of Scilly Travel also offers bus transfers from Penzance station to Land's End Airport, with advance booking strongly recommended. Given the often long journey from the DACH region and the early departure times of the ferry or Skybus, an overnight stay in a hotel on the mainland, for example near Penzance or the departure airports, is advisable to ensure a relaxed start to your cruise vacation. On St. Mary's, arriving flights are met by minibuses and taxis to take you to your accommodation or the harbor.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents will usually include a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the latest announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times may change at short notice.
