The launch of a new passenger ferry between Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly has been delayed until 2027.
The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group (ISSG) said the Scillonian IV would now enter service in March 2027 after being hit by "global supply issues" and problems with the delivery route via the Cape of Good Hope - a rocky headland off South Africa.
The ferry was originally meant to enter service next year.
According to The ISSG, the Scillonian IV will offer faster journey times and increased capacity as well as "upgraded" onboard facilities. The ship's modern hull design and fin stabilisers will also reduce motion at sea, the company added.
The ISSG said its other vessel - a dedicated freight ferry called Menawethan - was on track for completion and delivery in spring 2026. The ship is due to arrive in May next year with crew training, sea trials and final checks taking place before Menawethan enters full service around two months later.
In a statement on Thursday (August 28) The ISSG said the ships represented "a new era of connectivity and resilience" for the islands.
"We’re pleased to share the latest on our vessel replacement programme – a major investment in the future of lifeline travel and freight services between the Isles of Scilly and the mainland," the company said.
"These two new vessels are a once-in-a-generation investment and will secure reliable, sustainable transport links for the islands long into the future."
Both ships are being built by French ship builder Piriou and are expected to have an improved environmental performance.
The ISSG announced Piriou as its preferred shipbuilder in 2023 and work on the vessels began in Piriou’s Vietnam yard last year.
Piriou has more than 50 years’ ship building experience and employs 1,400 staff, including an in-house design team and production facilities in Europe, Africa, and Asia.
