A new freight vessel left Penzance on its inaugural trip to the Isles of Scilly on Thursday afternoon, (June 20).

The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group’s (ISSG) vessel called Gugh carried its first load of freight, which included building supplies and a boat.

The 22m vessel is an echo of the group’s former freight vessel of the same name, which served as the inter-island launch between 1961 and 1991.

Gugh adds another dimension to the Group’s offer, allowing freight to be transported direct to shore almost anywhere on any island.

It was built in Exeter by UK shipbuilder by Coastal Workboats, to the specifications of renowned international shipbuilder, Damen. 

Gugh is the fourth freight-specific vessel in ISSG’s fleet, working alongside its main cargo vessel Gry Maritha, which operates on the Penzance to Scilly route, as well as the Lyonesse Lady and Swift Lady, which service the off-islands. 

It will be moored in St Mary’s, is equipped with two cranes and has the ability to carry 50 tonnes of freight when fully loaded. The vessel will have the capacity to carry up to 12 passengers, the same as Gry Maritha.

Stuart Reid, CEO of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, said: “We are delighted to welcome Gugh into service. It not only gives us additional flexibility, with direct to shore delivery, but will also increase freight capacity on the Penzance to Scilly route.

“Gugh will ensure that we can continue to provide an outstanding service to our customers.”

The addition of the Gugh is part of the Steamship Group’s new vessel replacement project. Earlier this year the Group also signed contracts for the construction of two new vessels which will enter service in 2026.