Isles of Scilly: Coasteering Adventure on St. Mary’s Island

Thinking of adding a splash of adventure to your trip to the Isles of Scilly? This coasteering experience on St. Mary’s offers a perfect mix of adrenaline, spectacular scenery, and unique access to hidden coastal spots. It’s a fantastic way to see the wild side of the islands, especially if you’re craving something more active than a typical sightseeing tour.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the stunning views of rugged granite cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Second, the variety of activities—cliff jumps, wild swims, and rocky scrambles—that keep the experience engaging for all. Third, the experienced guides who tailor the session to your comfort level, making it accessible and safe for confident kids and adults alike.

A potential consideration? The activity requires a basic level of fitness and comfort in open water, so it might not be suitable for everyone. But if you love outdoor adventures and aren’t afraid of getting a little wet, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

This coasteering adventure suits adventurous families, thrill-seekers, or anyone eager to explore the islands from a fresh perspective—at ocean level, where the beauty of Scilly truly comes alive.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal scenery with granite cliffs, grottoes, and deep gullies
• Optional cliff jumps for all comfort levels
• All necessary gear included—just bring trainers and some extra shorts
• Suitable for ages 9 and up with a basic swimming ability
• Experienced guides ensure safety and fun
• An active way to see parts of the islands inaccessible by land

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Coasteering Experience on St. Mary’s

The coasteering adventure at Peninnis Head is a carefully designed activity that combines the thrill of jumping and climbing with the awe-inspiring beauty of the Isles of Scilly’s coast. You get to explore the dramatic granite formations, swim through inviting gullies, and scramble over rocky surfaces—all at water level.

The location itself is a highlight. Peninnis Head is a rocky promontory that’s usually off-limits to casual visitors, but here, it opens up as an adventure playground. The deep channels, steep granite outcrops, and sea caves make for a genuinely spectacular backdrop. You’ll love the way the landscape feels both raw and inviting, especially with the clear waters revealing vibrant marine life beneath your feet.

According to reviews, the guides—like seasoned local experts—are fantastic at making everyone feel comfortable. They give thorough safety briefings, provide all necessary gear, and are quick to adapt the session based on the group’s interests and tide conditions. The gear supplied includes a winter wetsuit, helmet, and buoyancy aid, which is essential for comfort and safety in cooler waters. Travelers have appreciated the emphasis on safety, with many noting the guides’ professionalism and attentiveness.

A Typical Day of Coasteering

The adventure begins at Peninnis Farm, conveniently located near Hugh Town, making it easy to find. After signing the participation forms and getting fitted with wetsuits, helmets, and buoyancy aids, you’ll start with a detailed safety briefing. This is where you’ll learn how to move confidently across the rocks, swim through gullies, and approach jumps of different sizes.

Once in the water, the real fun begins. The guides will lead you through narrow cracks, along granite ledges, and into hidden grottoes, revealing parts of the coastline most visitors never see. Many reviews mention the feeling of floating through these secluded pools and discovering secret spots that seem like they belong to a different world.

The jumps are optional but often very tempting. Guides start with small, manageable jumps—perfect for those trying it out for the first time—and then offer larger options for thrill-seekers. Several reviewers commented on how approachable the guides made jumping feel, encouraging but never pressuring, which helps to build confidence.

The wild swimming sections are highlights, with fresh, crisp waters offering a refreshing break from the physical scramble. Many describe it as “like swimming in a natural swimming pool,” with clear water and stunning rock formations all around.

What to Expect in Terms of Duration and Group Size

Each coasteering session typically lasts a few hours, with the exact timing depending on tide conditions and group preferences. The experience is designed to be engaging without being overly long, allowing you to focus on the thrill and scenery.

Group sizes tend to be manageable, ensuring plenty of attention from guides. Reviews mention that the guides are personable and knowledgeable about the coastline, adding interesting insights into the geology and marine life.

The experience is suitable from age 9—so families with kids who meet the requirements will find it a memorable family activity. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult, ensuring safety and peace of mind.

Practical Details and What To Bring

The tour includes all the essential gear, so you don’t need to worry about wetsuits, helmets, or buoyancy aids. All you should pack is trainers or lace-up shoes (no sandals or beach shoes), some shorts to wear over your wetsuit for added protection, swimwear, a towel, and dry clothes for afterward.

The meeting point is Peninnis Farm, a short walk from Hugh Town, making it convenient. The activity runs from Easter through autumn, aligning perfectly with the best weather in the region.

Pricing at $88 per person offers good value considering the small-group experience, professional guides, and all equipment included. Compared to other adventure activities, it’s a cost-effective way to access stunning parts of the coast that are normally off-limits.

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The Experience Provider: Kernow Coasteering

Kernow Coasteering is the company behind this adventure, known for their professional approach and focus on safety. They also offer flexible booking options, allowing you to reserve your spot and pay later, which is ideal for planning your trip with flexibility.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This coasteering trip is perfect for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and aren’t afraid to get a little wet and wild. It’s especially appealing if you want to experience the spectacular coastline of the Isles of Scilly from an ocean-level perspective. Families with confident kids, adventure lovers, and anyone looking for a memorable, active day will find it a great fit.

While it demands a basic level of fitness and swimming ability, the focus on safety and the guide’s encouragement make it accessible for most reasonably active people. The optional jumps and manageable pace mean you can tailor the experience to your comfort level, making it suitable for a wide range of participants.

For those who love stunning panoramic views, a bit of adrenaline, and exploring hidden corners that few see from land, this tour delivers a captivating glimpse of the wild coast of St. Mary’s.

FAQs

Is this coasteering experience suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 9 and above can participate, provided they are confident swimmers and accompanied by an adult if under 14.

Do I need previous coasteering experience?
No, no prior experience is necessary. Guides will give instruction on movement techniques, and jumps are always optional.

What should I bring for the activity?
Bring swimwear, towels, shorts to wear over your wetsuit, trainers (no sandals), and dry clothes for afterward.

How long does the tour last?
The session duration varies depending on conditions, but it typically lasts a few hours, including safety briefings and exploration.

Where do we meet for the tour?
Meet at Peninnis Farm, TR21 0HE, near Hugh Town, at the start of the adventure.

Is the activity suitable in all weather conditions?
The tours run from Easter to autumn, and guides will adapt or reschedule based on weather and tide conditions.

What’s included in the price?
All gear—winter wetsuit, helmet, buoyancy aid—and a guided safety briefing are included.

Can I book now and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

This coasteering adventure offers a fantastic way to combine physical activity with breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re seeking a thrill, a new perspective on the Isles of Scilly, or simply a day out of the ordinary, it’s a fun and memorable experience that’s well worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: