Travel Guide

The ferry typically offers the lowest fares. Day trip fares can start from £35 adult. Indicative 2026 helicopter fares: standard day trip from £199, last-minute from £149, on-the-day scenic flight from £139. Skybus fares vary by airport and season.

• Ferry day trip fares from £35 adult (early booking)
• Standard ferry fares vary by date and season
• Skybus fares vary by departure airport and season
• Helicopter standard day trip from £199 return (subject to availability)
• Helicopter last-minute day trip from £149 return (24 hrs before travel)
• Helicopter on-the-day scenic flight from £139 (a scenic flight, not a day trip)
• Compare fares for your dates; booking earlier does not guarantee the lowest price

All prices indicative only. Always check the official operator before booking.

The helicopter from Penzance and Skybus from Land's End both take approximately 20 minutes. Skybus from Newquay takes 30 minutes, and from Exeter, one hour. The Scillonian ferry takes 2 hours 45 minutes.

• Helicopter (Penzance): approximately 20 minutes
• Skybus (Land's End): 20 minutes
• Skybus (Newquay): 30 minutes
• Skybus (Exeter): 1 hour
• Scillonian Ferry: 2 hours 45 minutes

More space, a generous luggage allowance, and an adventure in itself. Dolphins, seabirds and St Michael's Mount along the way.

• Children can move around during the crossing
• Standard ferry tickets: 25kg hold luggage in 2 bags; day-trip tickets exclude hold luggage
• Dogs travel with you on deck
• The crossing is part of the holiday experience
• Direct rail connection to Penzance from across the UK

All three operators accept dogs, but each has specific rules. The ferry is the most straightforward option for most travellers.

• Ferry: dogs welcome on board — must be booked in advance, max 2 dogs per adult
• Skybus: dogs accepted on Land's End and Newquay routes only
• Skybus: dogs are NOT permitted on the Exeter route
• Helicopter: dogs carried onboard — book by phone on 01736 780828 (crate rules apply)
• Space for pets is limited on all services — always book early

Both give you around 7–9 hours on the islands. The helicopter operates day trip fares year-round. Skybus from Land's End is quick and flexible.

• Helicopter: standard day trips from £199 return — subject to availability
• Helicopter: last-minute day trips from £149 return (available 24 hrs before travel)
• Helicopter: on-the-day scenic flights from £139 (a scenic flight, not a day trip)
• Skybus (Land's End): 20 mins each way, all year
• Ferry day trips are possible but leave less time on the islands
• Check each operator's timetable for first and last departure times

Day trip availability can be limited, especially in peak season. Book ahead.

All three services can be affected by weather. The ferry may be cancelled in rough seas; flights may be grounded by fog or low cloud. Plan for disruption.

• Ferry may be cancelled in rough seas or strong winds
• Flights can be grounded by fog, low cloud or strong winds
• Operators typically rebook passengers or offer refunds
• Check operator service status pages before setting off
• Travel insurance is strongly recommended
• If possible, avoid travel on a strict deadline

Long-stay parking is available near all departure points. Check each operator's website for current availability and pricing.

• Penzance Harbour: long-stay car parks within walking distance — check current charges with Cornwall Council
• Land's End Airport: on-site car park — confirm current charges with the airport
• Penzance Heliport: very limited parking — check arrangements with the operator before travelling
• All three departure points are also reachable by train to Penzance