Scillonian III Operational Update – Service Delay Extended
Following our previous update on Tuesday, we regret to inform you that Scillonian III will not return to service on Friday, 21st March 2025, as initially expected.
During post-layup sea trials, an issue was identified with the gearbox to intermediate shaft coupling, which includes the shaft brake. To address this, further work has been required, including verifying the port-side propeller shaft alignment. This work is ongoing with A&P Falmouth.
Progress Update
The manufacture of a new shaft brake disc has been completed, and precision machining of the coupling bolt holes is currently underway. This includes aligning the new holes through 3 flanges and the replacement of 8 custom made bolts, in a space with limited access to work. However, due to the complexity of the process, each hole is taking approximately nine hours to complete. As of today, Thursday 20th March, six holes have been completed, with the remaining two expected to be finished by Friday morning. Once machining of the holes is complete, the final fitting of bolts will take place. The vessel will then be required to undertake an extended sea trial on Friday afternoon before the vessel can return to service. The A&P team have multiple shifts working 24 hours alongside Scillonian III’s crew to ensure the work is completed as soon as possible. ISSG’s onsite team continue to monitor progress and report regularly on progress, working closely with A&P’s technical team.
Passenger Information
Skybus has today, released a weather advisory for Friday and therefore due to the potential disruption to Skybus flights on Friday, we will not be able to offer a transfer of passengers to Skybus to those affected by the cancellation of Friday’s sailing.
Our Passenger Relations team will contact all affected passengers directly to discuss available options including:
- Transferring to Saturday 22nd March schedule sailing
- Rescheduling to another sailing of your choice.
- Day Trip Cancellations – Unfortunately, all day trips booked for Friday will be cancelled. Our team will arrange full refunds or assist with rebooking for a future date.
We sincerely apologise for this extended disruption and appreciate your continued patience and understanding. Our teams are working to ensure the vessel returns to service as soon as possible.
Further updates will be shared as soon as they become available.
Thank you for all your messages of support – we look forward to welcoming Scillonian III back!