The familiar sound of the Scillonian whistle sounded over the Islands, as her first sailing of the year signalled the start of the new tourist season.
The Scillonian made her first trip of the year, making the crossing in just under two and a half hours, in a sailing, which really marks the point at which the tourism season starts to pick up within the Islands. The Scillonian is currently running on her winter schedule, every Saturday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 9:15, on her usual route, Penzance to St. Marys.
The number of people making the first trip was not as high as some Islanders predicted, but it is expected that the passenger numbers will increase as the Easter Holiday approaches fast. The crossing was fair and many day tip passengers were able to enjoy the mild yet overcast conditions.
Over the Easter holidays there has always traditionally been the first big influx of visitors to the Islands, and many see it as a preview to what kind of tourist season it will be. With the predicted 40% rise in visitor numbers this year, it is hoped that this Easter will also echo this trend.