Top Cruise Operators
Several cruise lines include the Isles of Scilly on short itineraries departing from Southampton. Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines features sailings aboard Balmoral that call at St. Mary’s, the largest of the Isles. Saga Cruises also highlights the Scilly Isles as part of its British Isles itineraries, often combined with Cornwall and the English Riviera. Ambassador Cruise Line promotes short-break and British Isles discovery cruises, while Hebridean Princess offers boutique-style sailings to the islands with a more intimate, luxury approach. These operators provide a range of choices, from traditional cruising to small-ship experiences.
Common Itinerary
A typical 4-day Southampton to Scilly Isles cruise begins with departure from Southampton, followed by a sea day en route to St. Mary’s. Guests usually spend a full day exploring the Isles of Scilly, known for their subtropical gardens, unspoiled beaches, and quaint villages. Excursions often include visits to Tresco Abbey Garden or guided walks around the islands. The itinerary then includes a return sea day before concluding back in Southampton. Depending on the cruise line, itineraries may also add stops along the English Riviera or Normandy for variety.
Typical Packages and Inclusions
Most 4-day Scilly Isles cruises include cabin accommodation, all main meals, and access to onboard entertainment such as live shows, lounges, and leisure facilities. Lines like Fred. Olsen and Ambassador bundle traditional dining and entertainment into the base fare, while luxury lines such as Hebridean Princess offer a more all-inclusive experience with fine dining, guided tours, and drinks included. Optional extras across most operators include specialty dining, drinks packages, Wi-Fi, and shore excursions. This mix of inclusions ensures that travelers can choose between value-focused short breaks or premium, small-ship exploration when visiting the Scilly Isles.
Tips for Travelers
- Book early – Short cruises fill up quickly, especially during summer.
- Pack light – Small ferries to smaller islands may have luggage restrictions.
- Check weather – The Isles of Scilly enjoy milder weather than mainland UK, but it can be windy.
- Consider travel insurance – Especially if planning outdoor activities or excursions.
References & Validation
https://www.bolsovercruiseclub.com/british-isles-cruises/isles-of-scilly
https://travel.saga.co.uk/cruises/ocean/where-we-go/british-isles-cruises/isles-of-scilly-cornwall-and-the-english-riviera.aspx
https://www.southamptoncruisecentre.com/mini-cruises-short-breaks-from-southampton/
https://www.cruise1st.co.uk/destinations/northern-europe/st-mary-s-isles-of-scilly
https://www.iglucruise.com/balmoral/1st-may-2025_c325495
https://www.goodhousekeepingholidays.com/tours/normandy-channel-islands
https://www.hebridean.co.uk/cruise-calendar-and-offers/hebridean-princess-cruises/the-idyllic-isles-of-scilly/
https://www.ambassadorcruiseline.com/cruise-types/mini-cruises/
https://www.worldofcruising.co.uk/find-a-cruise/mini-cruises-from-southampton
https://www.ambassadorcruiseline.com/destinations/british-isles-discovery/
