In this episode, Marine Superintendent Tom Weise and Scillonian III Master Dave Redgrave visit Piriou shipyard in Vietnam to share the latest progress on Scillonian IV and Menawethan. We explore passenger areas, crew spaces and technical systems, offering a behind-the-scenes view of how each ship is taking shape and moving closer to joining our fleet.
Following the launch of Menawethan, Scillonian IV was repositioned onto her keel blocks in the building dock, ready for the next key stage of construction. The final megablock forming the vessel’s bow section and weighing 118 tonnes was successfully lifted into the dock using the goliath crane. Integration work with the remainder of the hull is now underway. This complex operation represents a major milestone in the project, as full integration of this section will complete the construction of the hull.
Site manager, Peter Broad, talks us through the lifting into place of Hull Vane on Scillonian IV – a significant build milestone.
Scillonian IV will be launched from the dock, beginning the next stage of her build.
A week-long programme of sea trials will take place down the delta to test vessel performance and handling.
Scillonian IV will sail under her own power and will begin her journey from Vietnam to Europe. While the original plan was to transit via the Suez Canal, advice from officials due to ongoing instability in the Middle East means the vessel will now travel around the Cape of Good Hope, adding approximately 40 days to her delivery journey.
Scillonian IV will arrive in France for final preparations ahead of UK delivery.
The vessel will reach the UK to begin berthing trials and crew familiarisation training.
Following successful trials and training, Scillonian IV will enter passenger service, delivering faster, more comfortable, and sustainable travel to the Isles of Scilly.
At the end of August, we proudly announced the confirmed delivery schedules for our two new vessels – a major milestone in our vessel replacement programme and one of the biggest investments in lifeline transport for the Isles of Scilly.
Menawethan, our new freight vessel, remains on track for delivery in spring 2026.
Scillonian IV, our next-generation passenger ferry, will now enter service in March 2027, offering faster journey times, increased comfort, and enhanced environmental performance. The slight adjustment to her schedule is due to global supply chain factors and the longer delivery route, but with confirmed dates, both vessels are set to deliver modern, reliable, and sustainable transport for the islands for decades to come. A true once-in-a-generation investment.
In the meantime, Scillonian III will continue serving passengers through the 2026 season, with her regular maintenance ensuring she remains dependable while our new vessels are completed.
In this episode, we sit down with Arjen Barendse from Hull Vane to discuss the innovative technology being installed on Scillonian IV, exploring how it works, the benefits it brings for fuel efficiency and sustainability, and the improvements it will deliver for passenger comfort and our operations. Tune in to learn more about how Hull Vane is helping shape the future of travel to the Isles of Scilly.
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 project includes the construction of two new vessels: Scillonian IV, our next-generation passenger ferry, and Menawethan, a dedicated freight vessel. Both ships are being built by Piriou and represent a new era of connectivity and resilience for the islands.
Construction on both vessels continues to progress well.
Menawethan
Menawethan is on track for completion and delivery in spring 2026. She is due to arrive in the UK in May 2026, followed by familiarisation, crew training, sea trials and final checks before entering full service around two months later.
For a number of reasons, including global supply issues and the delivery route via the Cape of Good Hope, Scillonian IV will now enter service in March 2027.
She will bring significant improvements to the passenger experience:
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.
In this issue, we’re pleased to share a conceptual look into Scillonian IV, created by design specialists. These concepts help visualise the overall look and feel of the vessel’s interior as we reach a key stage in development, moving from initial ideas towards final designs, materials, and finishes. They illustrate the vision for passenger lounges, café areas, and other key spaces on board.
During his visit to the furniture manufacturing factory in Ho Chi Minh, Stuart Reid reviewed interior materials being prepared for fit-out and provided feedback on elements that were well received by the shipyard. The factory, renowned for superyacht outfitting, showcased the high-quality construction and materials being deployed for the vessel.
The discussions and feedback from this visit will guide the next stage of development, helping ensure the interiors achieve the right balance of comfort, style, and functionality for passengers.
