Question 1

What is the best way to get to Tresco?

Accepted Answer

The Penzance Helicopter is the only service that flies directly to Tresco from the mainland — making it the most convenient and premium option. If you travel by ferry or Skybus, you arrive at St Mary's and then take an inter-island boat to Tresco (approximately 20–30 minutes).

Question 2

Does the Scillonian ferry go directly to Tresco?

Accepted Answer

No — the Scillonian only operates between Penzance and St Mary's. From St Mary's, you take an inter-island boat to Tresco. This adds approximately 20–30 minutes to your journey, plus waiting time for the boat connection.

Question 3

Does Skybus fly to Tresco?

Accepted Answer

No — Skybus only flies to St Mary's Airport. The only direct air service to Tresco is the Penzance Helicopter.

Question 4

Is there a helicopter to Tresco?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Penzance Helicopters operates direct flights to Tresco from Penzance Heliport, taking around 15–20 minutes. This is the only direct mainland link to Tresco and the most convenient way to reach the island.

Question 5

How do I get from St Mary's to Tresco?

Accepted Answer

Inter-island boat services operate between St Mary's Quay and Tresco, typically taking around 20–30 minutes depending on the specific service and conditions. Services are operated by Isles of Scilly Travel. Always check current timetables at islesofscilly-travel.co.uk.

Question 6

Can I do a day trip to Tresco?

Accepted Answer

Yes — particularly practical via the Penzance Helicopter, which flies direct and takes around 15–20 minutes each way. Indicative 2026 helicopter day-trip fares: standard from £199, last-minute from £149 (24 hours before), on-the-day scenic flight from £139. Via St Mary's, day trips are possible but allow less time on Tresco due to the inter-island boat connection.

Question 7

Is Tresco worth visiting?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Tresco is home to the world-famous Abbey Garden, outstanding beaches (including Pentle Bay, consistently one of the finest in the UK), excellent walking, and the New Inn for food. It is privately managed by the Tresco Estate and has a special, distinct character from the other islands.

Question 8

Can I stay overnight on Tresco?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Tresco offers self-catering cottages managed by the Tresco Estate, as well as the New Inn pub. Accommodation on Tresco is popular and books up months in advance. Visit tresco.co.uk for availability.

Question 9

Can I take my dog to Tresco?

Accepted Answer

Yes — dogs are welcome on Tresco. If travelling by helicopter, dogs must be booked by phone (01736 780828). If travelling via St Mary's, check the inter-island boat's dog policy with Isles of Scilly Travel.

Question 10

How much does it cost to fly to Tresco on the helicopter?

Accepted Answer

Indicative 2026 day-trip fares from Penzance to Tresco: a standard day trip from £199, a last-minute day trip from £149 (within 24 hours of travel), and an on-the-day scenic flight from £139. Standard return fares vary — always check the current pricing at penzancehelicopters.co.uk.

Priority	Best Route
Direct to Tresco, no fuss	Penzance Helicopter
Budget (overnight stay)	Ferry → Inter-island boat
Travelling with lots of luggage	Scillonian Ferry (25kg allowance)
Fastest from mainland	Skybus Land's End + boat, or Helicopter
Travelling with a dog	Ferry (most dog-friendly on board)
Day trip to Tresco	Penzance Helicopter (direct, most time on island)

Best Way To Get To Tresco

Getting To Tresco From The Mainland

Your Route Options

Option 1: Penzance Helicopter → Tresco

Option 2: Scillonian Ferry → St Mary's → Inter-Island Boat

Option 3: Skybus → St Mary's → Inter-Island Boat

Which Is Best For You?

Getting To Tresco — FAQs