The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group’s new freight vessel Menawethan has departed Vietnam and begun her delivery voyage to the UK.
The purpose-built ship left Ho Chi Minh this morning and is expected to arrive in Penzance in around 72 days, weather permitting.
The route will take the vessel via the Cape of Good Hope, with four planned bunker stops.
The departure marks a key milestone for the project, following years of design and construction.
Chief executive Stuart Reid said: “Seeing Menawethan begin her journey home is a hugely proud moment for everyone involved in the project.”
“This voyage represents the final step in bringing a vessel that has been carefully designed to meet the long-term freight needs of the Isles of Scilly into service,” he added.
The vessel is crewed by six specialists for the delivery voyage.
Scheduled stops include Port Louis in Mauritius, Walvis Bay in Namibia, and Tenerife, before a final call at Piriou’s shipyard in Concarneau, France.
From there, she will continue to Penzance.
Menawethan will replace Gry Maritha and is designed to deliver a more reliable year-round freight service.
The vessel features increased cargo capacity and improved facilities for chilled and frozen goods.
It will also carry up to 12 passengers in a dedicated onboard lounge.
The design includes enhanced operational efficiency and updated safety systems tailored to the Isles of Scilly route.
The vessel is being built alongside Scillonian IV, a new passenger ship due to enter service in 2027.
Together, the two ships form part of a £40 million investment in the islands’ transport links.
Further updates on Menawethan’s progress are expected during the voyage.
