Question 1

What is the fastest way to reach the Isles of Scilly?

Accepted Answer

The Penzance Helicopter and Skybus from Land's End both take approximately 20 minutes. These are the fastest connections from the mainland.

Question 2

What is the cheapest way to get to the Isles of Scilly?

Accepted Answer

The Scillonian III ferry typically offers the lowest fares — day trips can start from around £35 adult. Prices vary by date, season and availability. Always check directly with Isles of Scilly Travel for current fares.

Question 3

Do I need to book in advance?

Accepted Answer

Yes — particularly for peak summer dates. Popular sailing and flight dates sell out months in advance. We strongly recommend booking as early as possible for July and August travel.

Question 4

How early should I arrive at the departure point?

Accepted Answer

For Scillonian, embarkation normally opens 75 minutes before departure and closes 30 minutes before; double-sailing instructions can differ. For Skybus, arrive at least one hour before the flight; check-in closes 30 minutes before. Penzance Helicopters recommends arriving one hour before departure and closes check-in 45 minutes before. Follow the instructions for your booking.

Question 5

Can I visit the Isles of Scilly in winter?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Skybus and the Penzance Helicopter operate year-round. The Scillonian ferry is seasonal (approximately March to November). Winter visits are quieter, with fewer crowds and lower accommodation costs, but some facilities and businesses close outside the main season.

Question 6

Is helicopter travel worth it?

Accepted Answer

For speed, the Tresco connection, and a premium experience — yes. The helicopter is significantly faster than the ferry and offers an intimate 10-seat flight. It costs more than the other options, but for a special occasion or a direct Tresco visit, many travellers find it worth the premium.

Question 7

Can I do a day trip to the Isles of Scilly?

Accepted Answer

Yes — all three operators offer day trip options from the mainland. Day trips work best from Penzance (ferry or helicopter) or Land's End (Skybus) to maximise time on the island. Check departure and return times carefully — some services only offer a few hours on the islands.

Question 8

Which is better — ferry or plane to the Isles of Scilly?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your priorities. The ferry is typically cheaper and has better luggage and dog provisions. The plane is much faster and operates year-round. Read our Ferry vs Skybus comparison for full details.

Question 9

What is the fastest route to St Mary's?

Accepted Answer

Skybus from Land's End (~20 mins) or the Penzance Helicopter (~20 mins) are both the fastest options to St Mary's.

Question 10

Can dogs travel on the Scillonian?

Accepted Answer

Yes — dogs are welcome on the Scillonian III ferry. They must be booked in advance. A maximum of 2 dogs per adult applies. Dogs stay in designated areas of the vessel.

Question 11

How rough is the Scillonian crossing?

Accepted Answer

The crossing can be quite rough in certain weather and sea conditions — particularly in spring and autumn when Atlantic swells are larger. The Scillonian crosses approximately 28 miles of open sea and there is no shelter once underway. Some passengers experience seasickness. If you are prone to motion sickness, consider taking precautions or choosing an air option.

Question 12

What happens if the Scillonian ferry is cancelled?

Accepted Answer

If the ferry is cancelled due to weather or mechanical issues, Isles of Scilly Travel will contact you with options. You may be offered an alternative sailing, a transfer to a Skybus flight (subject to availability), or a refund. Always check the operator's current disruption policy and consider travel insurance.

Question 13

Can I take a bicycle to the Isles of Scilly on the ferry?

Accepted Answer

Bicycles may be transported on the Scillonian III as excess baggage, subject to availability and an additional charge. You should contact Isles of Scilly Travel directly to check current availability and to reserve a space for your bicycle.

Question 14

How much luggage can I take on the Scillonian ferry?

Accepted Answer

The Scillonian III allows 25kg combined luggage, split across a maximum of 2 bags. Individual bags must not exceed 20kg and must fit within 85×60×40cm. This standard hold allowance does not apply to day-trip tickets, which have no hold luggage. Hand luggage is one bag up to 5kg and 40 × 55 × 20 cm.

Question 15

When does the Scillonian ferry season run?

Accepted Answer

The Scillonian III typically operates from approximately March to November. The exact seasonal dates vary each year — always check the official Isles of Scilly Travel website for the current season's timetable.

Question 16

Can I take food onboard the Scillonian?

Accepted Answer

Yes — there is a café and bar onboard the Scillonian III. You are generally permitted to bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks onboard. Check the current terms with the operator.

Question 17

Can I travel with mobility equipment on the ferry?

Accepted Answer

The Scillonian III has facilities for passengers with mobility requirements, including wheelchair access. Contact Isles of Scilly Travel directly to discuss your specific requirements and to arrange assistance.

Question 18

How much luggage can I take on Skybus?

Accepted Answer

Skybus allows one cabin bag up to 30 × 15 × 15 cm and 3kg. Standard hold allowance: two pieces, 15kg combined, maximum size 75 × 50 × 30 cm. Day-trip tickets do not include hold luggage. Confirm your ticket and current rules with Isles of Scilly Travel.

Question 19

What happens in fog on Skybus?

Accepted Answer

Fog and low cloud can ground Skybus flights. Flights depend on the operator's visibility, cloud and wind limits. If your flight is cancelled due to weather, the operator will contact you and offer an alternative flight or refund. Consider travel insurance for flexible coverage.

Question 20

Which Skybus airport is best for day trips?

Accepted Answer

Land's End is the best departure for day trips — the 20-minute crossing maximises time on the islands. Arrive at Land's End Airport well in advance of your flight.

Question 21

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 22

Can I take a pram or pushchair on Skybus?

Accepted Answer

Skybus carries an infant's pushchair and travel cot free of charge. Contact Isles of Scilly Travel in advance about dimensions, folding and space; do not assume a particular model will fit.

Question 23

Can I fly directly to Tresco?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Penzance Helicopters is the only service that flies directly to Tresco. All other services (Skybus and the Scillonian ferry) arrive at St Mary's only.

Question 24

Can I take a rigid suitcase on the helicopter?

Accepted Answer

No — the Penzance Helicopter only accepts soft bags. Rigid suitcases and hard-shell luggage are not permitted. All luggage must be in soft, flexible bags that can be stowed appropriately. The allowance is 20kg standard hold luggage (soft bag, up to 70 × 39 × 31 cm) plus a cabin item up to 3kg and 30 × 15 × 15 cm; day trips allow a small daypack up to 5kg and scenic flights have no luggage allowance.

Question 25

How do I book dogs on the helicopter?

Accepted Answer

Dogs can be carried onboard the helicopter, but must be booked in advance through Reservations by phone on 01736 780828 — they cannot be booked online. Your dog must fit the operator's secure onboard crate (a larger crate is available with prior booking). Capacity and operational factors apply, so call ahead and confirm the current rules and fees before travelling.

Question 26

Is the helicopter good in bad weather?

Accepted Answer

The Penzance Helicopter runs a year-round service, but it is weather and operational-condition dependent — flights can be delayed or cancelled because conditions can differ at the departure point, en route or at the destination. The operator will advise if services are disrupted.

Question 27

How many passengers does the Penzance Helicopter take?

Accepted Answer

The Penzance Helicopter carries a maximum of 10 passengers per flight, making it a very intimate and exclusive way to travel.

Question 28

Can I take my dog to the Isles of Scilly?

Accepted Answer

Yes — dogs are welcome on the Isles of Scilly. The Scillonian ferry welcomes dogs (must be booked in advance). Skybus accepts dogs on Land's End and Newquay routes. The helicopter can carry dogs onboard (book by phone; crate rules apply). Once on the islands, dogs are welcome at many beaches and outdoor spaces.

Question 29

Are dogs allowed on all Skybus routes?

Accepted Answer

No — dogs are permitted on Skybus flights from Land's End and Newquay only. Dogs are not permitted on the Exeter route. Always confirm the current dog policy with the operator before booking.

Question 30

Do I need to pay extra for a dog on the ferry?

Accepted Answer

There is typically an additional charge for dogs on the Scillonian ferry. Contact Isles of Scilly Travel directly for the current dog booking policy and charges.

Question 31

Which travel option has the best luggage allowance?

Accepted Answer

The Scillonian ferry has the most generous allowance at 25kg combined (2 bags). The Penzance Helicopter allows 20kg (soft bags only). Skybus is the most restrictive at 15kg.

Question 32

Can I take surfboards or sports equipment?

Accepted Answer

Sports equipment may be carried by arrangement, subject to the operator's size, weight, space and safety rules. Contact the ferry, Skybus or helicopter operator before booking; charges and restrictions vary.

Question 33

Can I take a pram or pushchair to the Isles of Scilly?

Accepted Answer

On the Scillonian ferry, full-size prams and pushchairs can generally be accommodated. On Skybus and the helicopter, space is very limited — compact buggies may be possible but confirm with the operator before booking.

Isles of Scilly Travel FAQ

General Travel

The Scillonian Ferry

Skybus Flights

Penzance Helicopter

Dogs & Pets

Luggage & Equipment