A visit to the Isles of Scilly is not your average day trip to anywhere else in Britain. These tiny rocks off the coast of Cornwall are home to some 2,000 people, five of the 140 islands are inhabited and welcome visitors. Your island adventure starts the moment you board a ferry, plane or helicopter, taking anywhere from 15 minutes to just under 3 hours. If getting here doesn't tick the 'impress your friends' box, then maybe these five suggestions will.
Five islands in one day & Wildlife and Scenic Tours
Catch the first flight of the day, collect a picnic lunch from Hugh Street Café and board a privately hired RIB from St. Mary’s Quay around 9am to take you on a personalised tour of all the 5 inhabited islands, stopping off for swims, picnics and wildlife spotting.
If you want to island-hop and spend a bit of time on each island with family and friends, the Water Taxi run by Raptor Boating is the most cost effective option for direct water taxi.
To charter your own private Wildlife & Scenic tour with Raptor Boating, a dedicated trip can be customised to suit your group's needs.
Book here | 07729 127877
To join others for a 50 minute blast down to one of the main seal colonies, experience a thrill-seeking ride with Endeavour Rib to view and enjoy Atlantic grey seals, perfect for those eager to see these fantastic creatures in their natural environment and ideal for families with little ones.
Contact for prices per person.
Book here | 07471 932964
Self-guided Wine Tours and Tastings at St. Martin's Vineyard
Experience a wine-tasting experience in one of the most southernmost settlements of the UK! Take a self-guided tour through the wildflower-filled vineyard on the southern slopes of St. Martin's and learn about the vines, the wine making and what makes this coastal vineyard unique. Enjoy a tasting flight of white, rose and red wines which are all grown and produced on the vineyard. Linger over a glass or two of your favourites or take a bottle home from the cellar door. Their woodland and scenic walks explore the wilder parts of the vineyard with views out to the Daymark and Eastern Isles - picnics welcome!
On their self-guided tours, you can follow the vine-trail around the vineyard to learn about the viticulture and wine-making that happens on the vineyard. Wine tasting includes a flight of St. Martin's Vineyard wines. Reach out to the vineyard directly for information on self-guided tours and tasting prices per person.
Book here | 01720 423118
Explore the largest island in the archipelago by golf cart
Make the most of your day on St. Mary's by taking the first flight of the day, pick up a cart from Scilly Cart Co at Porthmellon – seating for 2,4,or 6 people - and head on a circuit of St. Mary’s, stopping off for dips at secluded beaches, spy breath-taking views and experience off-the-beaten track walks, finishing with a late lunch at Juliet’s. The perfect activity if you're with a group of family or friends.
Book here | 01720 422121
Tee off on the most south-westerly course in the UK!
If your intention is to stick with one island in one day, and golf is your one true love, then set your sights on this most south-westerly course in the UK which began life in 1904. The only challenge: the distracting island views will do nothing for your performance, but the bragging value is priceless! Situated on St. Mary’s northwest coastline, you’re cornered by stunning scenery and coastal views like no other. Whether you choose to play 9 or 18 holes at the Isles of Scilly Golf & Bowling Club, the Clubhouse welcomes non-members year-round - perfect for unwinding with a well-earned refreshment after your game.
Book here | 01720 422692
