Photos of what new Isles of Scilly Scillonian ferry could look like

Designs have been released over a proposed replacement for the current edition for the passenger ferry that travels between Penzance and the Isles of Scilly.

In June this year the Council of the Isles of Scilly submitted a 'Levelling Up Fund' bid to the government for a vessel replacement programme.

If successful, the bid will see the council working with the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, Tresco Estate, Duchy of Cornwall and Cornwall Council, as the owners of Penzance Harbour, to bring investment to the islands’ maritime transport links.

A decision on the bid, which includes a proposal for three new shipping vessels – the passenger ferry Scillonian IV, a new cargo

vessel and an inter-island launch – and related harbour works, is expected before the end of the year.

The proposed cafe area Picture: Spear Green Design

In the meantime, preparations are continuing in the background, so that the parties would be able to meet the April 1, 2022 deadline for works to begin if the green light is given.

If successful the aim is to have the new vessels built and in service by 2024.

As part of these preparations, the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group and the Council of the Isles of Scilly are hosting an exhibition on the islands, where the public is invited to view presentations of the proposed interior of the Scillonian IV passenger vessel and try four different types of seating options.

It would include an executive lounge, a coffee shop and retail area.

The Wheelhouse on the Scillonian IV Picture: Spear Green Design

And when it comes to the physical design of the ferry and its infamous 'flat bottom' often jokingly referred to by passengers of rough crossings, it is said: "Part of the ship's design is influenced by the demands of the route – the approach channel to Scilly is not very deep, so ships need to have a shallow draft in order to access St Mary's Harbour, and this shape is what can sometimes mean a rougher ride out at sea in poor weather.

"However the new ship's design includes the addition of anti-roll fins, which would greatly improve the stability and comfort of the journey in the future."

It is said to have "green technology at the heart of the new design," with a hybrid battery/engine propulsion system that should also make it quieter.

How the cafe seating could look Picture: Spear Green Design

A spokesperson said: "Feedback forms will be available to capture comments on the designs and to ensure views are taken into consideration as the design process develops.

"The exhibition will also include presentations on propulsion systems and the proposed community benefits to the islands should the bid be successful."

The proposed VIP lounge Picture: Spear Green Design

The display has been funded through a Government grant given to the council to progress the bid.

The sample seating has been provided free of charge by the manufacturers, with transportation funded by the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group.

The exhibition will take place in the Wesleyan Chapel in Hugh Town, on St Mary's, from this Saturday until the following Saturday, October 30, from 10am to 3pm.