The Isles of Scilly feel like the Caribbean — crystal-clear water, white sand beaches, palm trees. But they're just 30 miles off the coast of Cornwall. Getting there with a campervan takes planning, but it's worth it.
Getting There
By Ferry
Scillonian III runs from Penzance to St Mary's. The crossing takes 2 hours 45 minutes.
- Cost: £60-80 each way for a van
- Booking: Isles of Scilly Travel (scillytoday.com)
- Season: March-October (reduced winter service)
- Book early: The van deck fills up quickly in summer
By Air
Skybus flies from Land's End, Newquay, or Exeter to St Mary's. But you can't take a van on the plane. You'd need to leave the van in Penzance.
On St Mary's
Moorings
The Hugh Town moorings are the main landing point. You can park near the harbour.
Campsites
- Morning Point Campsite: The main campsite on St Mary's. £15-20/night. Toilets, showers, WiFi.
- Telegraph Campsite: Basic, cheaper. £10-15/night.
Getting Around
The island is small — you can walk everywhere. But the van is useful for reaching remote beaches.
Island-Hopping
Inter-Island Ferries
Small boats run between the islands. They're regular but weather-dependent.
- St Mary's to Tresco: 20 minutes
- St Mary's to Bryher: 25 minutes
- St Mary's to St Martin's: 30 minutes
- St Mary's to St Agnes: 40 minutes
Can You Take the Van?
No. The inter-island boats don't take vehicles. You'll need to leave the van on St Mary's and explore the other islands on foot.
What to Do
- Tresco Abbey Garden: Subtropical gardens. £16 entry.
- Bryher: Walk around the island in an hour. Hell Bay is stunning.
- St Martin's: White sand beaches, quiet, remote.
- St Agnes: The most remote island. Few visitors.
- Snorkelling: The water is crystal-clear. Bring a wetsuit.
Tips
- Book the ferry early: The van deck fills up months in advance
- Bring supplies: The islands are expensive. Stock up in Penzance.
- Check the weather: Crossings can be cancelled in bad weather
- Cash is useful: Some places don't take cards
- Respect the environment: It's an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Conclusion
The Isles of Scilly are a hidden gem. Getting there with a campervan takes planning, but the reward is Caribbean-quality beaches without leaving the UK. Book the Scillonian III early and bring supplies.
