This week is the 76 Anniversary of RMS Scillonian, which started service in 1925. The Isles of Scilly Steamship Company (ISSCo) first ship was called the ‘Argus’, bought from Admiralty Disposals. She started business on 27 March 1920. ISSCo decided to get a more comfortable ship, and bought the first Scillonian in 1925.
On 17 November 1925, RMS Scillonian was launched and named by Mrs A A Dorien-Smith. She was built by the Ailsa Shipbuilding Company Limited at a cost of ?24,500. She started service on 25 January 1926 and served for 29 years. During her service, RMS Scillonian contributed to the war effort during World War Two. “40,000 troop movements being recorded,” explains Scilly Up To Date.
On 25 March 1955, RMV Scillonian II was launched. She was built by Thorneycrofts of Southampton at a cost of ?250,000. Pictured on “Rosevear”.
RMV Scillonian III was launched on 17 May 1977 and named by HRH Prince Charles, Duke of Cornwall. She was built by the Appledore Shipbuilders Limited at a cost of ?24,500.