Scillonian III leaves dry dock

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Isles of Scilly passenger ship Scillonian III has left Penzance Dry Dock after a £2 million programme of refurbishments and winter maintenance.

The Scillonian III
The Scillonian III

The Scillonian III, which provides a vital link between Penzance and the Isles of Scilly, left dry dock on Saturday (February 9) to undergo sea trials ahead of the 2013 sailing season beginning in March.

As part of a multi-million investment into its travel resources, the Isles of Scilly Steamship Company, which owns and operates Scillonian III, has extensively refurbished her passenger facilities.

Upgrades carried out include new flooring, new lighting, audio visual screens, new bathroom facilities and new catering facilities, with a café/bar and separate coffee shop operated by Coffee Republic. Facilities for disabled passengers have also been improved.

A programme of general winter maintenance has  been completed, too, while Scillonian III has been in dry dock, including an overhaul of the engines, upgrades to bridge electronic and navigational equipment, repainting and external modifications. New lifeboats and davits have been fitted, creating more space for passengers on the upper deck.

Jeff Marston, chief executive of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Company, said: “We have listened to feedback from our passengers and that has informed the improvements that have been made. All the work which has been carried out at the Penzance Dry Dock – a facility operated by the company – is aimed at improving the customer experience and making travel on board the Scillonian III pleasant and enjoyable for everyone.”

Marston added: “The £2 million investment in the Scillonian III is money well spent – it will ensure she is fit for purpose for the next five years and demonstrates our commitment to investing in our assets and for the support of the community we serve on the Isles of Scilly.”

1 COMMENT

  1. Dolvean House and Tour guide Renate Davie are glad to hear this vital link between Cornwall and the Isle of Scilly is going to meet and exceed the tourists expectations. Welcome back on Board.

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