Isles of Scilly ferry service delayed by a month

A ferry service due to start running in May between the Isles of Scilly and the mainland has been delayed by a month.

Shipbuilder Harland & Wolff  has announced the ferry it has chartered will not run until early June.

Chief executive John Wood apologised to people who had made reservations with Scilly Ferries for crossings in May.

He said the new ferry would leave Spain for the UK within days but would need to undergo a regulatory process.

He added: “We now expect it will be early June before the first passenger crossings commence, but we know that for a first year of service it is hugely important to ensure every detail is properly taken care of to provide the absolute best service possible.”

In September H&W claimed its fares would be 25 per cent cheaper than the current ferry provider, the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group (ISSG).

Harland & Wolff said it would provide 90-minute journey times, which is faster than the two hours and 45 minutes journey times the ISSG offers.

Mr Wood said those who had reserved crossings in May would be contacted directly by Scilly Ferries.