GEARING UP FOR THE SUMMER HOLIDAYS? HERE’S OUR PICK OF 7 FUN FAMILY ADVENTURES SUITABLE FOR STAYCATION-ERS TO DAY TRIPPERS. FROM 1-HOUR EXPERIENCES TO A FULL DAY ON SCILLY, THERE’S SOMETHING FOR ALL ABILITIES AND AGES WITH PLENTY OF FUN FACTOR.

Kayaking and paddleboarding from St. Martin’s

The best moments happen at sea! The crystal-clear waters off Par Beach, St. Martin's are the perfect location for kayaking and paddleboarding fun. Create family memories, explore uninhabited islands or visit a magical sandbar.  Discover neolithic settlements, find your favourite deserted beach for a picnic and paddle over beds of sea grass - home to crabs, fish and anemones - you may even have an encounter with a grey seal! Use the experience and local knowledge of the team at St. Martin’s Watersports to help you make the most out of being on the water. Ideal for pre-school (accompanied by an adult), primary and secondary. More here.

Scilly Rockpool Safaris

Ever tried rock-pooling but never make that grand discovery? Scott & Samaya Reid of Scilly Rockpool Safaris will take you on a wondrous adventure of marine discoveries including species rarely seen. Discover what animals live beneath the crystal-clear waters of Scilly including the customary starfish, crabs, and sea anemones. Whether you are a lone traveller, a family with children, or a group of friends Scilly Rockpool Safaris is a unique and special experience for everyone. More here.

Hut 62 Watersports Hire

Hiring boats from Bryher since 1962, Hut 62 are the experts for all your watersport needs if based on the island (although can get to other islands). From motorboats, sailing boats, stable sit on top kayaks, transparent kayaks, SUPs to pedalboards – hire by the hour, day or week!  Their knowledge is second to none and have all the great tips to ensure you have fun on the water, safely! It’s the perfect get-away-from-it-all antidote, exploring the clear waters of Scilly at your own pace. But it also enables you to visit uninhabited shores, fish from your own boat, take a picnic and more up. More here. 

Scilly Sea Safaris

Treat yourself to a unique Island Sea Safari aboard Rib Firebrand IV with skipper and photographer Dave McBride. Enjoy a sensational sea safari rib ride experience! Take a 90 minute safari/cruise taking in Scilly’s awesome beauty and azure waters, not forgetting the amazing wildlife, stopping for photos and a chat in sheltered places. Shorter 60+min and 30+ min trips available in the afternoon (from midday) to suit families and day trippers. More here.

The Sailing Centre

Located on sandy sheltered Porthmellon Beach, on the west coast of St. Mary’s, The Sailing Centre is the only RYA, BSUPA & AALA licensed provider on the islands offering high quality, safe watersports tuition and activities for all levels. Offerings include taster sessions and courses in sailing and windsurfing for groups or private hire, plus kayak tours and special excursions, the hiring of day boats, dinghies, and paddleboards. For thrill seekers, the Centre’s RIB speedboat ‘Endeavor’ is available for wildlife watching (dolphins, seals, porpoise sometimes whales!) private charter, inter-island taxis, and thrill rides. The company also operates from Ravensporth Beach as Ravensporth Sailing Base on Tresco, so visitors are well-covered when it comes to watersports across the islands. More here.

Scilly Carts, St. Mary's

A fun and easy way to explore St. Mary’s, just book a Scilly Cart! This family-run business owned by Emma and Mark Humphries has a fleet of 26 carts. It’s a green (all carts are electric) and easy way to explore the entire island of St. Mary’s in an enjoyable, comfortable way. Whether you’re here for a day or longer, they offer 2, 4 and 6-seater carts, providing options for both couples and families. Each cart has a daily range of 20-24 miles (that’s 3 times round the island!) from a full charge, with lighting for evening use, plus safety belts on all seats and even child and booster seat options.  There’s third party insurance for named drivers and full instructions will be given on collecting your cart. Drivers must be at least 21 and hold a full UK driving license for at least a year. More here.

Sea Quest Glass Bottom Boat 

SeaQuest is the first and only glass bottom boat in Scilly. Her skipper, Jo, lives on St. Martins and with over 25 years boating experience in Scilly, she is your perfect guide for a trip around the islands. SeaQuest trips depart from St. Mary’s and St. Martin’ and encompass the Eastern Isles, Northern Rocks and lighthouses. These beautiful scenic trips take in the abundance of wildlife around the islands. From seals, puffins, dolphins to seabirds and, of course, with windows on the ocean to view the magical underwater world of Scilly. Daytime, evening and private hire trips are available. From 1- or 2-hour wildlife and underwater safaris, to the Lobster Takeaway Sundown Trip to Bryher - there is something for everyone! More here.