Remember the days when children would run around outdoors, when there were fewer technological distractions or busy roads for parents to worry about? Well, we know of one place where that is still the case – where you can reconnect as a family, surrounded by nature and the soothing sounds of the sea. You don’t even need to travel far to get there; the Isles of Scilly are a mere 28 miles from the coast of Cornwall…
In this frantic modern world, Scilly is a breath of fresh air. It’s a tight-knit community – everyone knows everyone! There are hardly any cars at all (there aren’t enough roads to warrant them) and the preferred mode of transport is by day boat. Surrounded by pristine beaches, scenic coastal paths and fields filled with flowers, it’s the perfect location for families to switch off the gadgets and get out into the great outdoors. So join us aboard the Scillonian III this summer and we’ll transport you across the water, for a day trip like no other.
Set sail and get straight into holiday mode…
Our passenger ferry sails from Penzance Harbour up to six days a week. It’s the ideal mode of transport for families with plenty to see and do during the crossing. Breathe in the fresh sea air, treat the kids to the views from the deck and see if you can spot the many Cornish landmarks– Newlyn Harbour, St Michael’s Mount, The Minack Theatre and Wolf Rock Lighthouse. Remind your little ones to keep a close eye on the waves, as they might just spot a pod of dolphins following the ferry to the islands.
You’ll arrive into St Mary’s Harbour just in time for lunch, with around four hours to spend exploring the Isles of Scilly. Here are a few suggestions to help you make the most of your precious family time….
Take to the seas for an eye-opening safari…
Once we’ve sparked your interest in the world beneath the waves, a sea safari is the perfect opportunity to learn more. The team at Island Sea Safaris will take your family on a tour of the bays, you’ll see the seals and, depending on the season, you could see puffins and razorbills too. Susie Groves has lots of local knowledge to share with you – from the history of the islands and shipwrecks, to facts about the seaweed, barnacles and jelly fish you’ll see through the viewing boxes on board.
“We always say the one thing we can give kids on Scilly is freedom. It’s an absolute paradise for children.” Susie Groves, Island Sea Safaris.
Awaken your taste buds with local produce…
The Isles of Scilly are a foodie’s haven, so head to one of Scilly’s many pubs, restaurants and small shops to sample the incredible local produce. From freshly caught crabs and fish, to cheeses and sweet treats, such as ice creams and fudge, there’s something yummy for all the family to enjoy.
Pretend you’ve been shipwrecked in the Abbey Garden…
You’ll find the spectacular and sprawling Abbey Garden on Tresco Island. With acres of towering palm trees and colourful flowers sourced from around the world, it’s easy to lose yourself in the grounds for an afternoon. Tucked away amongst the trees you’ll find the Valhalla museum, a collection of thirty shipwrecked figureheads salvaged from Scilly’s shores. Here, under-11s can take the “Valhalla Challenge”, in which they’ll imagine that they’ve survived a shipwreck and search for life-saving plants in the garden!
Get creative and build a Scilly sandcastle…
One of the things we love most about Scilly is that entertainment needn’t cost you a penny. With so many islands to explore, each with different landscapes – rugged cliffs, beaches and meadows – there’s plenty to keep little feet busy. You can delve into rock pools and look for molluscs, anemones, prawns and barnacles. There are crystal clear bays to splash about in and miles of pristine white sand – brilliant for building sandcastles with. You could even visit the 16th century Star Castle on St Mary’s for a little architectural inspiration.
SPECIAL OFFER: Discover Scilly with our summer saver ticket
From June-September, families of two adults and up to three children can experience an extraordinary day out on the Isles of Scilly for just £79*. You’ll set sail from Penzance in the morning and sail back in the late afternoon, enjoying approximately four hours on land, and entire day out of fun with the family. Book today!
*This offer is exclusively for day trips on the Scillonian III and it excludes Saturday and Monday crossings.