About the Port
Scattered off the southwestern tip of Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly form a low-lying archipelago of granite islands ringed by turquoise shallows and pale sand beaches. The main island, St. Mary's, anchors a scattering of smaller isles, including Tresco, known for its Abbey Garden, where subtropical plants thrive in a climate softened by the Gulf Stream. Centuries of maritime trade and shipwrecks along these waters have left a quiet, seafaring character that persists in small harbor villages.
Because the islands lie beyond the reach of a deep-water harbor, ships anchor offshore and passengers arrive by tender directly into Hugh Town, St. Mary's compact capital. From there, coastal paths, a small museum, and boat trips to the outer islands are within easy reach on foot, making the pace of a visit unhurried and close to nature.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Isles of Scilly.
Explore Tresco Abbey Garden
A subtropical garden of terraces built around a ruined priory, home to plants from over 80 countries. Reach it by a short inter-island boat trip from Hugh Town; allow at least half a day for the journey and visit.
Walk St. Mary's Coastal Path
A waymarked trail circles the island past granite headlands, sandy coves, and Bronze Age remains, with sections easily walked straight from Hugh Town without a car or bus.
Take a Boat Trip to the Uninhabited Isles
Local boatmen run short crossings to islets like Bryher, St. Martin's, or the Eastern Isles, prized for seal colonies and seabird nesting sites rarely seen elsewhere in England.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Cruises That Visit Isles of Scilly
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 9, 2026 | Windstar | Star Legend | 10 | $6,481 | |
| May 4, 2027 | Ponant Cruises | Le Lyrial | 8 | $5,530 | |
| May 6, 2027 | Lindblad Expeditions | NG Explorer | 11 | $12,100 | |
| May 9, 2027 | Ponant Cruises | Le Bellot | 8 | $8,160 | |
| May 18, 2027 | Ponant Cruises | L'Austral | 7 | $4,580 | |
| May 5, 2028 | Ponant Cruises | Le Lyrial | 8 | $6,380 | |
| May 14, 2028 | Ponant Cruises | Le Bellot | 8 | $7,800 | |
| May 23, 2028 | Ponant Cruises | Le Boreal | 11 | $7,370 | |
| May 31, 2028 | Lindblad Expeditions | NG Explorer | 12 | $12,000 |