Saint Mary's, Isles of Scilly

Saint Mary's, Isles of Scilly

England

Explore pristine white-sand beaches and weathered medieval ruins while spotting seabirds and rare wildflowers across these enchanting offshore islands.

Currency British Pound (GBP)
Language English
Time Zone GMT (UTC+0)
Best Time to Visit May–Sep
Typical Duration 8-18 nights
Price Range $2,891–$9,200 per person
Port Type Port of Call
Tender Port Yes

Gateway to the remote and picturesque Isles of Scilly, offering access to pristine beaches, dramatic coastal landscapes, and a unique island experience off the Cornish coast.

Cruises that visit Saint Mary's, Isles of Scilly

Build Your Day in Saint Mary's, Isles of Scilly

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 6:00 PM
Usually about 10 hours ashore
Getting around:
Tresco Abbey Garden, Shop & Café Exotic plants & shipwreck figureheads Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 1k Closed · Opens 10 AM Tue
The Atlantic Inn, St Mary's Lovely restaurant area serving very tasty food and a lovely menu. Pub · ★ 4.5 · 1k
Juliet's Garden Delicious crab sandwich and gin, beautiful view and delightful staff! Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 1k Closed · Opens 10 AM Tue
Isles of Scilly Heritage Coast Picnics·Dogs allowed Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 1k
The Turks Head Outside food allowed·Outdoor seating·Live music Pub · ★ 4.6 · 1k Open · Closes 9 PM
The New Inn Old inn with pretty B&B rooms & pool Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 1k
The Seven Stones Inn Outdoor seating·Live music·Food at bar Pub · ★ 4.7 · 1k Open · Closes 11 PM
The Ruin Beach Café What an incredible find, superb cafe serving an incredible seafood platter. Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k Open · Closes 10 PM
Dibble and Grub Delicious food, excellent service in a gorgeous setting. Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM Tue
Tregarthen's Hotel Modern rooms & dining with sea views Bar · ★ 4.4 · 0k
Garrison Walls Really good walk around the western end of St Mary's. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 0k Open 24 hours
Carn Vean Cafe The best food, service and value on all the islands. Cafe · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM Tue
Old Town Inn Outdoor seating·Live music·Bar games Pub · ★ 4.3 · 0k
Karma St. Martin's The food is superb and the view is to die for. Restaurant · ★ 4.3 · 0k
Isles of Scilly National Landscape Had a fantastic week on the Isles of Scilly staying on St Mary's Island. Nature preserve · ★ 4.8 · 0k Open 24 hours
Longstone Lodge and Cafe Crab sandwiches to die for. Cafe · ★ 4.8 · 0k
Star Castle Hotel Wonderful food, superb service and an atmosphere from a bygone era. Hotel · ★ 4.5 · 0k
Old Town Cafe We make sure we come here when we stay on St Mary’s. Cafe · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM Tue
Scilly Spirit Learned a good deal about gin and also history of the Isles of Scilly. Distillery · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM Tue
Kavorna Cafe & Bistro Freshly made food, good service and reasonable prices. Cafe · ★ 4.4 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM Tue
Harbour View and Fraggle Rock Bar Lovely upstairs seating area with amazing views. Cafe · ★ 4.5 · 0k
Island Fish Ltd Outdoor seating·Dogs allowed Seafood restaurant · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM Tue
St Mary's Hall Hotel You must eat also at the restaurant, delicious options and great service. Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k
Coastguards Lookout Delicious vegan toastie and hot drinks selection. Cafe · ★ 4.6 · 0k Closed · Opens 10:30 AM Tue
Olivia's Kitchen Dine-in·No delivery Cafe · ★ 4.7 · 0k Open · Closes 9 PM
Hugh Street Cafe Phenomenal chicken, chorizo and chilli cheese ciabatta. Cafe · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 8:30 AM Tue
The Scillonian Club Live music·Food at bar·Dogs allowed Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k Open · Closes 11 PM
St. Mary's Hugh Town, beaches & monuments Island · ★ 4.8 · 0k
Bant's Carn Burial Chamber and Halangy Down Ancient Village Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM Tue
The Island Bakery Awsome crab rolls, lovely coffee and plenty of treats. Bakery · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM Tue
Poms Kitchen Outdoor seating·Kids' menu·Dogs allowed outside Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k Open · Closes 9 PM
Cromwell's Castle Amazing place, you can enter the castle all the way to the top. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 0k Open 24 hours
Little Arthur Café Dine-in·No delivery Cafe · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 11 AM Tue
St Martin's Beaches, walks & a famed daymark Island · ★ 4.9 · 0k
Co-op Food - Isles of Scilly - Hugh Street Only store on Saint Mary's, staff are very lovely and nice. Convenience store · ★ 3.9 · 0k Open · Closes 10 PM
Gig Shed Cafe Food is tasty and good value. Cafe · ★ 4.8 · 0k Closed · Opens 3 PM Tue
Carreg Dhu Gardens Picnics·Dogs allowed Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 0k Open 24 hours
Isles Of Scilly Museum Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 0k
The Hall For both dinner and breakfast, there was an incredible variety of food. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k Open · Closes 9 PM
Seal Snorkelling Adventures Top spot to see the seals playing and fishing and come right up close. Tourist attraction · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM Tue
Peninnis Head Dogs allowed Park · ★ 4.9 · 0k Open 24 hours
Old Town Bay Onsite services Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 0k
The cracked crab and laughing lobster Lovely fresh food and very good service clean and a fab treat. Seafood restaurant · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 11:30 AM Tue
The IOS Store (49 Clothing) Ok shop very expensive but good for Isles of Scilly clothes Clothing store · ★ 4.2 · 0k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM Tue
Porthmellon Beach Magical beach with great sailing opportunities & hire facilities. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 0k
Scilly Billy They're really helpful and the clothes are all really good quality. Clothing store · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM Wed
Harry's Walls A hidden, but stunning viewpoint on St. Mary's with a fascinating history. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.1 · 0k Open 24 hours
Buzza Tower Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 0k
Porth Hellick Down Burial Chamber There some lovely burial chambers on St Mary’s all in spectacular locations. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.9 · 0k Open 24 hours
St Martin's, Isles of Scilly Certainly worth a day trip or two if staying in Scilly. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 11 AM Tue
Burnt Island Small menu, brillant food, a great lil food dungeon in St Mary! Restaurant · ★ 5 · 0k Open · Closes 10:30 PM
The Grub Hut Seriously excellent fresh pitta, moist falafel, salad & meat. Takeout Restaurant · ★ 5 · 0k Closes soon · 7 PM
Tideline This is a lovely gift shop in Hugh Town. Gift shop · ★ 3.6 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM Tue
The Crab Shack For mains we had the seafood platter and it didn’t disappoint. Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k
The Foredeck Such a good selection of clothing. Women's clothing store · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM Tue
BOURDEAUX SHOP - Isles of Scilly Onsite services Gift shop · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM Tue
St Martins Stores Small island store and post office. Convenience store · ★ 4.4 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM Tue
Lucy-Tania Boutique A wonderful small fashion shop with exceptional attention to detail. Clothing store · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 11 AM Tue
Porth Minick Beach Tourist attraction · ★ 2.8 · 0k

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Saint Mary's, Isles of Scilly

About Saint Mary's, Isles of Scilly

Saint Mary's in the Isles of Scilly has emerged as a charming port of call for Northern European cruises, with four distinguished cruise lines including PONANT EXPLORATIONS, Silversea, HX Expeditions, and Atlas Ocean Voyages regularly calling here. With 12 upcoming cruises and a typical voyage duration of 8 nights, this picturesque Cornish archipelago serves as an ideal stopping point for travelers exploring the British Isles and beyond. The port sees peak activity in May, when the islands are at their most welcoming.

Passengers disembarking at Saint Mary's will discover a quintessentially English island experience, complete with dramatic coastal scenery and a relaxed island pace that contrasts beautifully with busier mainland ports. From here, cruise itineraries typically venture to compelling destinations including Kinsale, London Tower Bridge, Guernsey, Belfast, and the Scottish islands of Tobermory and Isle of Mull, making Saint Mary's an excellent launchpad for exploring some of Northern Europe's most storied coastlines.
Explore

Reasons to Visit

1

Ancient Isles of Scilly Heritage

Explore the Isles of Scilly Museum to discover 5,000 years of maritime history, from Bronze Age settlements to shipwrecks. Walk among the dramatic granite cliffs and prehistoric stone circles that dot Saint Mary's, offering glimpses into one of England's most isolated and historically significant archipelagos.

2

Fresh Seafood & Local Flavors

Savor exceptional fresh catch at waterfront restaurants serving locally-landed fish and traditional Cornish specialties. The island's small fishing fleet ensures daily-caught seafood appears on menus, while local bakeries offer warm pasties and cream teas perfect for exploring the rugged coastline.

3

Dramatic Coastal Walks & Beaches

Hike the stunning coastal paths encircling Saint Mary's, featuring turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and windswept moorlands. Porthcressa Beach and Tolland Head offer breathtaking Atlantic views, while the island's compact size makes scenic exploration easily manageable within your port time.

4

Artisan Crafts & Island Markets

Browse Hugh Town's charming independent shops showcasing local artwork, handmade jewelry, and traditional Scilly crafts. The weekly market features island-made goods and fresh produce, offering authentic souvenirs that capture the spirit of this remote, artistic community.

5

Wildlife Encounters & Seabird Sanctuaries

Observe puffins, razorbills, and seals in their natural habitat during guided boat trips or from designated viewpoints around the island. Saint Mary's serves as a gateway to pristine wildlife reserves, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers seeking rare Atlantic seabirds.

Cruise Lines at Saint Mary's, Isles of Scilly

Cruises Departing From Saint Mary's, Isles of Scilly

Cruises Visiting Saint Mary's, Isles of Scilly

Ship Schedule at Saint Mary's, Isles of Scilly

Saint Mary's, Isles of Scilly Location

Other Cruise Ports in England

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Saint Mary's best known for?

St Mary's offers white beaches, rugged coastlines, and gateway access to the Isles of Scilly.

How do you reach Saint Mary's?

By flight to St Mary's Airport or by ferry from mainland UK.

What can visitors do on Saint Mary's?

Enjoy beaches, coastal trails, nature reserves, archaeology sites, and scenic harbour views.

When is the best time to visit?

Late spring to early autumn offers mild weather and calmer seas.