Isles of Scilly freight service sets sail for trials

The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group’s purpose-built freight vessel Menawethan has entered the sea trials phase in Vietnam.

The sea trials are a key part of the build programme during which the vessel’s performance, manoeuvrability, propulsion and onboard systems will be rigorously tested at sea.

Menawethan will sail from the shipyard down the Nha Be river to Vung Tua, where the trials will be conducted off its coast in the South China Sea, within 20 miles of the shore.

Following the successful completion of trials, the vessel will undergo its final fit-out and certification before undertaking the delivery voyage to the UK ahead of entering into service.

It will provide a modern, reliable and resilient freight service for the Isles of Scilly, replacing Gry Maritha to deliver essential goods and supplies.

The vessel has a range of improvements including much-enhanced cargo capacity and improved capacity for perishable, chilled and frozen goods, which means supplies can be transferred between the mainland and islands more reliably all year round.

It is being constructed alongside Scillonian IV, the Group’s new passenger vessel, which is scheduled to enter into service in 2027. The vessels jointly represent a £40 million investment into the future of the islands’ transport links.

Stuart Reid, Chief Executive of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, said: “The commencement of sea trials represents an important step towards bringing Menawethan into service later this year. The vessel has been designed specifically to meet the needs of the islands, and we are pleased to see her performing well at this crucial stage.”