Scilly Isles ferry set for emotional final voyage

Hundreds of people are expected to mark the end of an era as the Scillonian III makes its final passenger sailing between Penzance and the Isles of Scilly.

The ship, which can carry 486 passengers, is due to depart from Penzance at 09:00 GMT and arrive at St Mary's at 11:45.

The ferry, which has served generations of islanders, visitors and businesses, is due to leave St Mary's at 14:00 for the last time as part of a farewell day organised by the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group.

A flotilla of vessels is expected to accompany the ship on its departure from St Mary's and a musical reception by the Cape Cornwall Singers is planned in Penzance.

During the crossing, a ceremony will be held on board to seal a time capsule containing memories and mementos linked to the vessel's history.

Where it will placed has yet to be announced.

The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group said it had already received contributions including photographs, memorabilia, artwork and keepsakes from people who had been part of the ship's story over the years.

The replacement vessel Scillonian IV, which can carry 600 passengers, has departed the shipyard in Vietnam where it was built to be delivered to the UK.

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