Prince William visits Isles of Scilly for first time since key title change

Prince William is making his first official visit to the Isles of Scilly today since he became the Duke of Cornwall in September 2022 when his father ascended the throne. 

His first stop is at St. Mary’s Harbour – the maritime gateway to the ireland – where he is meeting representatives from local businesses operating in the area.

The harbour is run by The Duchy of Cornwall and handles passengers and vessels – from ‘Tripper Boats’ and sail training vessels to fishing boats and those carrying special cargo deliveries – travelling to the Isles of Scilly, making it a crucial part of the community and a hub for the vital tourism industry across the islands.

William, 41, will spend time with harbour operators as well as local people from businesses on St. Mary’s, hearing from them about life on the islands and how they are preparing for the summer season, which sees approximately 100,000 visitors come to the islands each year.

The prince will also meet a gig boat team from the gig 'Zelda' who came third overall out of 422 crews in the 33rd World Pilot Gig Championships, which were held in Scilly last weekend. The crew are all born and bred Scillonians, who have rowed together for a number of years, achieving fourth place for a number of years, before finally reaching a podium finish in this year’s competition. 

Stay up-to-date with the latest Royal news Join us on WhatsApp

Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

William will then go to St Mary’s Community Hospital to meet staff and hear about an exciting expansion project for a new integrated health and social care facility on land owned by the Duchy of Cornwall.

The facility will be game changing in terms of the range and quality of care that can be provided, whilst also ensuring that people can be cared for as close to home as possible, rather than having to travel to the mainland.

The Duchy have facilitated early entry onto the site to ensure that work can begin as soon as possible, with the new building set to open by next summer.

Yesterday, the heir visited Cornwall where he played an impromptu game of beach volleyball yesterday during his first trip away from wife Kate since she was diagnosed with cancer. His two-day tour is a hopeful sign that the Princess ofWales is doing well.