Ocean Scilly Festival 2025

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Renowned as a true island paradise – with powder-soft white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters – the Isles of Scilly are the perfect setting for a festival that celebrates the ocean. Spanning nine days, this vibrant nautical event is a joyful celebration of all things sea-related: from thrilling watersports and fascinating marine life to the rich maritime heritage and everything that happens on, in, or above the water.

This year, we are thrilled to be hosting Steve Backshall, the award-winning wildlife presenter, and his wife Helen Glover, Olympic Gold medallist. Steve will share his lifelong love of the ocean through captivating talks and inspiring encounters (see page 32) and Helen is set to take part in the Archipelago Scilly Swimrun (see page 36). We thank them both for supporting Ocean Scilly 2025.

TRAVEL DISCOUNTS

10% travel discount with Penzance Helicopters on routes to St. Mary’s and Tresco between the 22nd of August and 1st September with the code OCEANSCILLY. Book at penzancehelicopters.co.uk | 01736 780828 For more information:  visitislesofscilly.com/oceanscilly visitislesofscilly.com | 01720 620600 | info@visitislesofscilly.com

Open throughout Ocean Scilly

GIGS

MIGHT FLY EXHIBITION

The history and heritage of gig racing on the Isles of Scilly.

Step into the spirit of gig racing at the Steamship Office in Hugh Town, St. Mary’s to celebrate the heritage, pride, and passion of gig rowing with a special exhibition open throughout the week.

Explore the rich story of gig racing on Scilly and discover how support is given to the Gigs Might Fly Campaign — a communitydriven project to bring the iconic Klondike gig home to the new Cultural Centre and Museum on St. Mary’s.

LOCATION: Steamship Office, Hugh Street, St. Mary’s

TIME: 9pm - 4pm

PRICE: FREE - donations welcome

HOW TO BOOK: Just turn up

SHIPWRECKS OF ST. AGNES

Explore St. Agnes on a fascinating journey through its past.

Join local researcher Kate Hale on a half day walk around St. Agnes to hear the history of some of the island’s most noted shipwrecks dating back to the 1500s. Shipwrecks were a defining aspect of Scillonian life for hundreds of years and during this rare opportunity, Kate will point out the sites of the wrecks and tell you the sometimes sad, dramatic or heroic stories surrounding their demise. Poetry, artefacts and photographs animate the stories further. Kate was previously curator of the Isles of Scilly Museum.

Well behaved dogs are welcome. Please note, there are 3 tricky styles to climb over on this walk and the difficulty level overall is moderate. We will accept a maximum number of 15 peopleearly booking is recommended.

LOCATION: Walk starts St. Agnes Quay at 10:30am

TIME: 9:45am at St. Mary’s Quay ticket office or meet Kate off the boat at 10:30am on St. Agnes Quay.

Note - this 3 hour walk ends on St. Agnes. Participants to make their own way back to St. Mary’s.

PRICE: £20pp (Boat not included)

HOW TO BOOK: visitislesofscilly.com/oceanscilly

Open throughout Ocean Scilly CAST OFF ON THE ISLES OF SCILLY

A true angler’s paradise.

Set sail from the stunning Isles of Scilly and enjoy a fishing experience like no other. Experience a fun, short trip, reeling in mackerel and pollock in crystal-clear waters, or for the more serious angler chase the thrill of tuna on a longer offshore adventure. With expert local guides, breathtaking island views, and some of the richest waters in the UK, fishing here is more than a pastime – it’s an unforgettable adventure. Rods, reels, and good vibes provided!

LOCATION: Meet St. Mary’s Quay

TIME: Mackerel and Pollock Fishing Trip 9:30am (2hrs)

Full Day Tuna ‘Catch and Release’ Fishing Trip 7am-3pm

PRICE: Mackerel and Pollock Fishing Trip £30pp

Full Day Tuna ‘Catch and Release’ Fishing Trip £200pp

HOW TO BOOK: scillyfishingandboatcharters.com | 07880 237121

FAMILY KAYAK EXPERIENCE

Fancy a family adventure on the water?

Experience a guided paddle through some of the clearest waters in the UK with Kayak Scilly. Explore hidden coves, observe seals and seabirds, and land on a deserted beach for a picnic or break. Suitable for a range of ages and abilities, these relaxed and safe family tours offer a unique way to discover the Isles of Scilly.

LOCATION: Thomas Porth, St. Mary’s

TIME: 10am

PRICE: £50pp (Group rates and family discount available)

HOW TO BOOK: kayakscilly.com

BEACH CLEAN FOR THE OCEAN!

Beach clean with the Isles of Scilly National Landscape team.

Join Jacob Blackett from the Isles of Scilly National Landscape team for a beach clean at Porthmellon and Shark’s Pit.

Help protect our precious marine environment by removing harmful plastics and debris from the shoreline. All equipment (bags and gloves) will be provided-just bring your enthusiasm and a pair of sturdy shoes!

Whether you’re a local or visiting, this is a great way to give back to the islands and enjoy some fresh sea air while making a real difference. Suitable for all ages.

LOCATION: Porthmellon Slipway, St. Mary’s

TIME: 12pm - 2pm

PRICE: FREE

HOW TO BOOK: Just turn up

FAMILY FUN DAY OUT!

A fun-filled day for the whole family in support of St. Mary’s Gig Club.

Join us for a fantastic family fun event filled with activities for all ages! Enjoy games, music and entertainment and savour delicious treats and food. It’s a perfect day to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones! All money raised goes to supporting St. Mary’s Gig Club.

LOCATION: Holgates Green, St. Mary’s

TIME: 12pm - 11pm

PRICE: FREE

HOW TO BOOK: Just turn up

Mon 25th August

SCILLY SIRENS AND FRIENDS

An evening of popular music with the local ladies’ choir The Scilly Sirens and their friends and families.

The local ladies’ choir continues its summer programme with a special performance for the Ocean Scilly Festival. Enjoy a beautiful evening of music as this talented ensemble presents a selection of uplifting, moving, and sea-inspired pieces celebrating the islands’ coastal surroundings. Whether a returning supporter or a first-time listener, this is a wonderful opportunity to experience a heartfelt performance that captures the spirit of Scilly.

All are welcome – come, immerse yourself in the sound of the islands in full voice.

LOCATION: St. Mary’s Methodist Chapel

TIME: 8pm - 9:15pm

PRICE: Donations welcome

HOW TO BOOK: Just turn up

Mon 25th August

HAVE A GO AT GIG ROWING ON ST. AGNES

Come along and try your hand at rowing in a traditional Scillonian Gig! Guided by St. Agnes’ experienced crews.

Gig rowing is a beloved tradition on the Isles of Scilly, with roots stretching back to the 19th century. Originally used for pilotage and salvage, these historic wooden boats are now at the heart of a thriving local sport. Whether you’re a seasoned rower or a curious beginner, why not come along and give it a go? It’s a unique way to experience Scilly’s rich maritime heritage — and a lot of fun too!

LOCATION: St. Agnes Gig Club

TIME: 5:30pm

PRICE: £5pp

HOW TO BOOK: Just turn up

Mon 25th August

WANDER THE TIMELESS SHORES OF

OLD TOWN

Take part in Citizen Science and explore the shores of Old Town.

Join the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust to discover the amazing marine life that lives on Scilly’s shores. Look amongst the rocks and seaweed for marine creatures like crabs, starfish and anemones, to name just a few. Take part in some Citizen Science and biological recording and submit a record of all the species you find!

Please note: children must be accompanied by an adult. Please wear sensible footwear for slippery surfaces. Bring a bucket if you have one!

LOCATION: Old Town Slipway, St. Mary’s

TIME: 11:30am - 1:30pm

PRICE: Donations to the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust

HOW TO BOOK: Just turn up

SUNSET SAIL EXPERIENCE

Evening sail with drinks and nibbles.

Set sail on a magical 3-hour sunset cruise aboard Jekamanzi, the only private yacht charter in Scilly. This 50ft Bermudan cutter offers a truly unique way to experience the islands - gliding through calm waters as the sun dips below the horizon. Sip refreshments, soak up the stunning scenery, and enjoy the peace of an unforgettable evening at sea.

A perfect way to round off your day during Ocean Scilly.

LOCATION: Pick-ups available from all the islands

TIME: 5:30pm - 8:30pm

PRICE: Between £95 and £110 depending on min numbers - 2 at £110pp, 4 at £105pp and 6 at £95pp

HOW TO BOOK: scillyyachtcharters.co.uk

Mon 25th & Tues 26th August

PADDLE & PICNIC TO SAMSON WITH HUT 62

Kayak adventures and secluded picnics on Bryher.

Pick up a picnic on Bryher and launch a kayak from Hut 62 to explore the coastline or find a secluded spot. Single, double, and clear-bottom double kayaks are available. Bryher offers a range of great food options, including seafood, handmade fudge, and freshly baked goods. Once stocked up, head to Hut 62 on Green Bay beach for launch. Buoyancy aids and dry bags are provided.

During big spring tides, sand bars emerge at low water, and Hut 62 is ideally located for paddling to the uninhabited island of Samson.

Hut 62 operates seven days a week, so feel free to inquire about alternative days for heading out.

LOCATION: Green Bay, Bryher

TIME: 9am - 6pm (or between your tripper boat times if visiting from another island)

PRICE: From £35 for kayak hire, does not Include picnic

HOW TO BOOK: book@hut62.co.uk

Open

WATERSPORTS AT PORTHMELLON BEACH

Porthmellon Beach is the hub for watersports on St. Mary’s. The only RYA, BSUPA & AALA licensed centre offers expert instruction and equipment hire for sailing, kayaking, windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding. Whether you’re looking for a fun taster session, a full course, there’s something for all ages and abilities. Younger adventurers can join our popular children’s sail camps, while thrillseekers can hop aboard Endeavour, our high-speed RIB, for wildlife watching or inter-island adventures. Hire and delivery available across the islands.

LOCATION: Sailing Centre, Porthmellon Beach, St. Mary’s

HOW TO BOOK: sailingscilly.com | 01720 422060

COASTAL THRILLS COASTEERING

Explore the rocky coast of Peninnis Head with the island’s most exhilarating adventure experience.

The remarkable coasteering route on St. Mary’s offers an unparalleled experience, making it a must-do activity during the Ocean Scilly Festival. Explore the granite coastline of Peninnis Head, taking in wild swimming, scrambling, and if brave enough, a stunning array of cliff jumps, big and small. Advance booking essential!

Minimum age for participation is 9 years old. Wetsuits, helmets and buoyancy aids provided. Lace-up shoes essential in the sea and an extra pair of shorts to be worn over a wetsuit.

LOCATION: Peninnis Farm, St. Mary’s

TIME: 12pm - 3:30pm

PRICE: £53.90pp

HOW TO BOOK: kernow-coasteering.co.uk/booking

Tues 26th & Thurs 28th August

SEAQUEST GLASS BOTTOM BOAT EXPERIENCE

Window to the ocean wildlife trip.

Embark on a captivating tour around some of the Isles of Scilly’s most beautiful and untouched uninhabited islands. As you cruise through crystal-clear waters, keep a lookout for the charismatic Atlantic grey seals—often spotted lounging on the rocks or gliding gracefully beneath the waves. The surrounding skies come alive with seabirds swooping and diving, offering a spectacular display of island wildlife in action. Beneath the surface, discover a vibrant marine world teeming with life: from swaying kelp forests and delicate seagrass meadows to colourful sea urchins, elegant jellyfish, and other fascinating underwater creatures. It’s a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the wild, natural beauty of Scilly’s coastal environment.

LOCATION: St. Mary’s Quay, either steps 1 or 2 for a 10.45 departure

TIME: 10:45am - 12:45pm

PRICE: £28 adult / £20 child

HOW TO BOOK: seaquestscilly.com

HAVE A GO AT GIG ROWING ON ST. MARY’S

Come along and try your hand at rowing in a traditional Scillonian gig! Guided by experienced rowers and coxswains from St Mary’s Gig Club.

Gig rowing is a beloved tradition on the Isles of Scilly, with roots stretching back to the 19th century. Originally used for pilotage and salvage, these historic wooden boats are now at the heart of a thriving local sport. Whether you’re a seasoned rower or a curious beginner, why not come along and give it a go? It’s a unique way to experience Scilly’s rich maritime heritage — and a lot of fun too!

LOCATION: Porthmellon Beach - by the gig shed doors

TIME: 5:30pm - 8:30pm

PRICE: £5pp

HOW TO BOOK: visitislesofscilly.com/oceanscilly

FULL DAY SAILING WITH SCILLY YACHT CHARTERS

Embark on a full-day sailing adventure aboard Jekamanzi, a beautifully restored 50-ft Bermudan cutter, and experience a truly unique way to explore the Isles of Scilly.

Join a full-day sail aboard Jekamanzi around the Isles of Scilly. Glide through turquoise waters under the guidance of an expert, local skipper. Drop anchor at deserted isles, savour a gourmet lunch made with Scilly’s freshest produce, and encounter seals, seabirds - and perhaps dolphins on a personalised island-hopping voyage. A unique blend of luxury, freedom, and island adventuredesigned for an intimate group experience.

LOCATION: Pick-ups available from all islands

TIME: 9am - 5pm

PRICE: £250pp

HOW TO BOOK: scillyyachtcharters.co.uk

WILDLIFE SAFARI WITH ST AGNES BOATING & THE ISLES OF SCILLY WILDLIFE TRUST

Explore the Western Isles of Scilly and observe a variety of marine life.

Sea Safaris around the Western Isles of Scilly offer a unique and thrilling way to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of this stunning archipelago. These guided boat tours provide visitors with an opportunity to experience the islands from the water, to see remote locations and observe a variety of marine life. View Scilly’s wildlife around the Western Rocks aboard the Spirit of St. Agnes with your very own onboard guide from the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust.

LOCATION: St. Agnes Quay

TIME: 1pm - 3pm

PRICE: £24.30 adult / £12.15 child

HOW TO BOOK: visitislesofscilly.com/oceanscilly

SHIPWRECKS OF BRYHER

Explore Bryher on a fascinating journey through its past.

Join local researcher Kate Hale on a half day walk around Bryher to share the history of some of the island’s most noted shipwrecks, including the famous stranding of the SS Minnehaha beyond Hell Bay in 1910. Shipwrecks were a defining aspect of Scillonian life for hundreds of years and during this rare opportunity, Kate will point out the sites of wrecks, and relate the sometimes sad, dramatic or heroic stories associated with them. Poetry, artefacts, and photographs animate the stories further. Kate was previously curator of the Isles of Scilly Museum. Well behaved dogs are welcome. Overall difficulty level is moderate. We will accept a maximum number of 15 people - early booking is recommended.

LOCATION: Meet St. Mary’s Quay ticket office or Bryher Quay

TIME: 9:45am at St. Mary’s Quay ticket office or meet Kate off the boat at 10:30am on Byrher Quay.

Note - this 3 hour walk ends on Bryher. Participants to make their own way back to St. Mary’s.

PRICE: £20pp (Boat not included)

HOW TO BOOK: visitislesofscilly.com/oceanscilly

Weds 27th August

SUNSET SAIL

Evening sail, with drinks and nibbles.

Step aboard the Jekamanzi - a 50ft Bermudan cutter - for an unforgettable evening sail through the islands, with drinks in hand as the sun melts into the sea. Soak up the atmosphere as you follow the women’s gig race from Nut Rock back to St. Mary’s. A vibrant spectacle of local pride and maritime tradition.

LOCATION: Pick-ups available from all islands

TIME: 5:30pm - 8:30pm | PRICE: £95pp

HOW TO BOOK: scillyyachtcharters.co.uk

FLIPPERS AND FINS SAFARI

Seeking out migratory seabirds and ocean-dwelling mammals.

Join Joe Pender SMBA Skipper and co-founder of Scilly Pelagics and seabird expert Dr Robert Flood, also co-founder of Scilly Pelagics, on a short-range Pelagic trip in search of rare and migrating seabirds. You’ll search around the islands spotting rafts of Shearwaters, Storm Petrel, Skuas, Gulls and Cetaceans (aquatic mammals!). Bring binoculars or cameras and a warm jacket.

LOCATION: St. Mary’s Quay

TIME: 9:30am - 1pm | PRICE: £32.35pp

HOW TO BOOK: visitislesofscilly.com/oceanscilly

Thurs 28th August

PAINT THE DAY

Artistically inspired by the sea.

Let Tresco’s diverse seascapes and shifting light spark your creativity in this inspiring challenge. ‘Paint the Day’ invites you to spend time capturing your favourite ocean view from the Isles of Scilly, using whatever artistic medium you choose.

Basic art supplies will be available from Gallery Tresco from 10am, and all ages and skill levels are invited to participate. Head out for the day and capture your scene inspired by the island’s nature.

Finished works can be returned to the Gallery by 4pm on the same day, ready to be displayed in the pop-up exhibition.

LOCATION: Tresco Gallery

TIME: 10am - 4pm

PRICE: FREE

HOW TO BOOK: Just turn up

Open throughout Ocean Scilly

ST MARTINS WATERSPORTS

Set off by kayak or paddleboard from Par Beach on St. Martin’s and discover the beauty of the surrounding waters. Just a 25-minute paddle brings you to the untouched Eastern Isles, home to white sand beaches, ancient ruins, and inquisitive grey seals. Whether you prefer to explore sheltered coves or paddle beyond Old Quay to spot seagrass beds and vibrant marine life, there’s something for everyone.

Equipment is available to hire from one hour up to six days, with friendly expert guidance from a local team.

LOCATION: Par Beach, Higher Town, St. Martin’s

HOW TO BOOK: stmartinswatersports.co.uk

Thurs 28th August

RNLI WATER DEMOS AND LIFEBOAT TOUR

See the crew in action and explore the lifeboat up close!

Join the RNLI lifeboat and crew for exciting water safety demonstrations in St. Mary’s Harbour, showcasing essential lifesaving skills. After the display, step aboard for a guided tour of the lifeboat and meet the brave team who crew it—plus, enjoy a special visit from everyone’s favourite lifesaving mascot, Stormy Stan!

LOCATION: St. Mary’s Quay

TIME: 5pm - 8pm

PRICE: FREE

HOW TO BOOK: Just turn up

FULL DAY SAILING WITH SCILLY YACHT CHARTERS

Full-Day sailing aboard Jekamanzi - a beautifully restored 50-ft bermudan cutter and experience a truly unique way to explore the Isles of Scilly.

Join a full-day sail aboard Jekamanzi around the Isles of Scilly. Glide through turquoise waters under the guidance of an expert, local skipper. Drop anchor at deserted isles, savour a gourmet lunch made with Scilly’s freshest produce, and encounter seals, seabirds - and perhaps dolphins on a personalised island-hopping voyage. A unique blend of luxury, freedom, and island adventure - designed for an intimate group experience.

LOCATION: Pick-ups available from all islands

TIME: 9am - 5pm

PRICE: £250pp

HOW TO BOOK: scillyyachtcharters.co.uk

Thurs 28th & Fri 29th August

PADDLE & PIZZA WITH HUT 62 ON TRESCO

Paddle, explore, and refuel by the sea.

Situated beside the Ruin Beach Café, the Hire Hut at Ravensporth provides convenient access to the water for coastal exploration.

A selection of single, double, and clear kayaks, as well as paddleboards, is available for hire directly from the beach. The sheltered bay offers ideal conditions for paddling, with routes along Tresco’s coastline or out to the uninhabited islands of Northwethel, St. Helen’s, and Teän.

Wood-fired pizzas and other fresh dishes are available nearby at the Ruin Beach Café, just steps from the shoreline.

Hut 62 operates seven days a week, so feel free to inquire about alternative days for heading out.

LOCATION: Ravensporth, Tresco

TIME: 9:30am - 6pm or between your tripper boat times if visiting from another island

PRICE: from £30pp for SUP hire (does not include pizza)

HOW TO BOOK: book@hut62.co.uk

Fri 29th August

REJUVENATE BY SEA AND STEAM

Sea dip and sauna experience.

Bryony from Adventure Scilly will guide you through a rejuvenating sea dip and sauna experience with nourishing body scrubs and oils from Phoenix & Providence, perfectly rounded off with a fire pit in the garden, herbal teas or SC Dogs rum and a few little sweet treats.

LOCATION: Sauna Garden at Mincarlo Guest House

TIME: 7:30pm - 9:30pm

PRICE: £20pp

HOW TO BOOK: adventurescilly.as.me

SHIPWRECKS OF ST. MARTIN’S

Explore St. Martin’s on a fascinating journey through its past.

Join local researcher Kate Hale on a half day walk around St. Martin’s to share the history of some of the island’s most noted shipwrecks, including the story of why the Daymark was given its stripes. Shipwrecks were a defining aspect of Scillonian life for hundreds of years and during this rare opportunity, Kate will point out the sites of wrecks, and relate the sometimes sad, dramatic or heroic stories associated with them. Poetry, artefacts and photographs animate the stories further. Kate was previously curator of the Isles of Scilly Museum. Well behaved dogs are welcome. Overall difficulty level is moderate. We will accept a maximum number of 15 people - early booking is recommended.

LOCATION: Meet St. Mary’s Quay ticket office or St. Martin’s Quay

TIME: 9:45am at St. Mary’s Quay ticket office or meet Kate off the boat at 10:30am on St. Martin’s Quay.

Note - this 3 hour walk ends on St. Martin’s. Participants to make their own way back to St. Mary’s.

PRICE: £20pp (Boat not included)

HOW TO BOOK: visitislesofscilly.com/oceanscilly

SCILLY SWIM: ST. MARY’S

FULL & HALF SWIMRUN

RACE

A true test of endurance and island spirit.

Take on the challenge of the St. Mary’s Swimrun! Choose between the Half course or the epic Full Swimrun—a thrilling adventure around the entire island, featuring approximately 12km of running and 3km of open-water swimming. Registration for both courses opens at 10am—don’t miss your chance to dive in! Register on Thursday 28th 3pm - 5pm.

09:00 - Race briefing for the St. Mary’s Full and Half courses.

09:30 - The St. Mary’s Full Swimrun race starts. This involves a complete circumnavigation of St. Mary’s - approximately 14km of running and 16km of swimming.

09:30 - The St. Mary’s Half Swimrun race starts. A total of 7km of running and 1km of swimming around the Southwest of St. Mary’s. (Athletes should all finish just before those taking part in the St. Mary’s Full race.)

10:30 - 13:00 - Swim-runners expected at the finish line.

LOCATION: Porthmellon Beach, St. Mary’s

TIME: 9:30am - 1pm

PRICE: HALF £75pp / FULL £120pp

HOW TO BOOK: scilly60.co.uk/swimrun

Sat 30th August

INVIGORATE WITH SEA AND SAUNA

Reawaken your senses with sea, sauna, yoga, and coastal self-care.

Bryony from Adventure Scilly will guide you through an invigorating morning sea dip & sauna experience with some simple yoga flow, & energising body scrubs and oils from Phoenix & Providence, rounded off with some fresh coffee or herbal teas and a few little sweet treats.

LOCATION: Sauna Garden at Mincarlo Guest House

TIME: 7:45am - 9:45am

PRICE: £15pp

HOW TO BOOK: adventurescilly.as.me

Sat 30th August

SWIMRUN FOR KIDS:

JOIN THE FUN!

Four kid-friendly courses showcasing young energy and community.

To keep the young ones active and inspired, the Junior Swimrun offers four tailored routes designed to suit different ages and abilities. This event is always a standout, bringing the whole community together in spirited support of the next generation of athletes - plus, adults are encouraged to cheer on and support the little competitors! For a glimpse of the incredible energy and fun, check out the highlights from the very first Junior Swimrun here: bit.ly/Juniorswimrun.

LOCATION: St. Mary’s, Porthmellon

TIME: Registration: 09:30 Race: 10:30am - 11:45am

PRICE: FREE

HOW TO BOOK: scilly60.co.uk/swimrun

STEVE BACKSHALL: ADVENTURES BENEATH THE SURFACE

Tales of oceans, wildlife, and adrenaline-fueled exploration.

Join much-loved adventurer, presenter and author Steve Backshall for a talk and Q&A on his life-long love of the ocean, the creatures that call it home and some of his most exciting adventures. Expect tales featuring some of the world’s best wildlife, his travels exploring the four corners of the world, his commitment to conservation projects and the more extreme, adrenaline-fueled expeditions!

LOCATION: Old Town Inn, St. Mary’s

TIME: 7:30pm – 9pm

PRICE: £15 adult / £10 child

HOW TO BOOK: visitislesofscilly.com/oceanscilly

HIRE YOUR OWN BOAT WITH HUT 62

Explore the tranquil clear waters of Scilly in your own boat.

Cruise between the islands, visit uninhabited shores, fish from your boat (fishing lines available to hire), visit another island for lunch or take a picnic, moor up and explore...

The possibilities are endless and with safety boats doing regular patrols and staff always ready to lend a hand if unsure, this is the perfect option.

If visiting from another island you can start from Bryher and finish on Tresco to work around the tides and extend your day. Advice on tap at the time of booking.

Hut 62 operates seven days a week, so feel free to inquire about alternative days for heading out.

LOCATION: Green Bay, Bryher

TIME: 9am - 6pm or between your tripper boat times if visiting from other islands

PRICE: From £55pp

HOW TO BOOK: 07979 393206 | book@hut62.co.uk

HAVE A GO AT GIG ROWING ON TRESCO

Come along and try your hand at rowing in a traditional Scillonian gig! Guided by Tresco’s experienced crews.

Gig rowing is a beloved tradition on the Isles of Scilly, with roots stretching back to the 19th century. Originally used for pilotage and salvage, these historic wooden boats are now at the heart of a thriving local sport. Whether you’re a seasoned rower or a curious beginner, why not come along and give it a go? It’s a unique way to experience Scilly’s rich maritime heritage — and a lot of fun too!

LOCATION: Tresco, New Grimsby

TIME: 1pm – 4pm

PRICE: Donations welcome

HOW TO BOOK: Just turn up

HAVE A GO AT GIG ROWING ON ST. MARTIN’S

Come along and try your hand at rowing in a traditional Scillonian gig! Guided by St. Martin’s experienced rowers and coxswains.

Gig rowing is a beloved tradition on the Isles of Scilly, with roots stretching back to the 19th century. Originally used for pilotage and salvage, these historic wooden boats are now at the heart of a thriving local sport. Whether you’re a seasoned rower or a curious beginner, why not come along and give it a go? It’s a unique way to experience Scilly’s rich maritime heritage — and a lot of fun too!

LOCATION: Par Beach, Higher Town, St. Martin’s TIME: 1pm – 4pm

PRICE: £5pp

HOW TO BOOK: Just turn up

ARCHIPELAGO SWIMRUN

THE UK’S ULTIMATE SWIMRUN

ADVENTURE

Swim between islands and run scenic trails over 30km - a true test of endurance!

Is this the best Swimrun course in the UK? While that’s up for debate, there’s no denying that there’s simply no other venue quite like it! Imagine swimming between 10 breathtaking islands, running over 30km of rugged, scenic trails, and conquering 8km of open sea—this is the ultimate adventure for any Swimrun enthusiast. Designed to challenge and thrill, the course offers a unique blend of endurance, skill, and natural beauty that makes it truly one of a kind. Depending on your pace and stamina, participants can expect to spend anywhere from 5 to 9 hours immersed in this unforgettable journey through some of the UK’s most stunning coastal landscapes.

LOCATION: Starts and finishes on Porthmellon Beach

TIME: 9am - 6:30pm

PRICE: £240pp

HOW TO BOOK: scilly60.co.uk/swimrun

I grew up in Cornwall teaching circus skills - juggling, unicycling, diabolo - and spent my days visiting schools and youth groups across Devon and Cornwall.

In 2013, I married Erica, and we moved to her home, the Isles of Scilly, where we’re now raising our two children. Since then, I’ve taken on various roles in this amazing community - and somehow became a race director, a role I never expected but truly love.

SCILLY60 EVENTS offers a range of inter-island endurance challenges across the Isles of Scilly. It has grown from a 60km ultra marathon into a series of races, swimruns, and walks set against the stunning Scillonian landscape.

SCILLY SWIMRUN, part of the Ocean Scilly Festival, has something for everyone - from the 5km Social Swimrun taster to the challenging Archipelago Swimrun, covering ten islands with 28km of running and 8km of swimming - offering options for adventurers of all levels.

JOIN US! Whether you’re chasing 60km or 110km, love swimming, walking, marathon goals, or a 24-hour team challenge, Scilly60 has something unique. Expect stunning scenery, strong community spirit, and unforgettable adventures across one of the UK’s most magical archipelagos.

Ocean Experiences on Scilly

ADVENTURE SCILLY: adventurescilly.co.uk 07748 102844

ENDEAVOUR RIB SERVICES: sailingscilly.com/endeavour-rib-services 07471 932964

FALCON BOATING: falconboating.co.uk 07841 368987

HUT 62: hut62.co.uk

07979 393206

KAYAK SCILLY: kayakscilly.com 07717 337876

KERNOW COASTEERING: kernow-coasteering.co.uk 07734 343954

RAPTOR BOATING: raptorboating.co.uk 07729 127877

SCILLY60: scilly60.co.uk hello@scilly60.co.uk

SCILLY FISHING & BOAT CHARTERS: scillyfishingandboatcharters.com 07880 237121

SCILLY YACHT CHARTERS: scillyyachtcharters.co.uk 07899 716566

SEA QUEST GLASS BOTTOM BOAT: seaquestscilly.com 07884 055122

ST AGNES BOATING: stagnesboating.co.uk 01720 422704

ST MARTIN’S WATERSPORTS: stmartinswatersports.co.uk 07470 711857

ST MARY’S BOATMEN’S ASSOCIATION: scillyboating.co.uk 01720 423999

THE SAILING CENTRE - ST MARY’S: sailingscilly.com 01720 422060

TRESCO BOAT SERVICES: tresco.co.uk/boats 01720 423373

Introducing our Gigs Might Fly campaign

Let’s raise £35,000 together to lift up the Klondike and celebrate Scilly’s gig-rowing history

Donate now to help us put the much-loved Klondike at the heart of our museum

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