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

Exploring the coastlines of the Isles of Scilly through a coasteering adventure offers a one-of-a-kind way to connect with this wild, rugged corner of the UK. This 3.5-hour experience, hosted by Kernow Coasteering, takes you along the dramatic cliffs of Peninnis Head on St. Mary’s, where you’ll swim, scramble, and jump (or not jump—it’s all optional) over stunning granite formations. It’s a wild ride that promises unforgettable views and plenty of adrenaline, all led by experienced guides who prioritize safety and fun.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it combines adventure with accessibility. Whether you’re a confident swimmer, a thrill-seeking family, or an adventurous kid over 9, there’s something here for everyone. The highlight for many will be the chance to freely explore parts of the coast accessible only by water and rock, making it feel like an exclusive secret of the Isles. The only potential drawback? You’ll need to be prepared for some physical activity and a wetsuit that can feel a little snug—so this isn’t ideal if you prefer more relaxed sightseeing.

This tour suits those craving an active, memorable experience in nature—especially if you’re comfortable in open water and love a good splash of adrenaline. If you’re looking for a relaxing boat tour or a typical sightseeing walk, this isn’t your fit. But if you want to test your limits and see the coast from a whole new perspective, it’s a fantastic choice.

Key Points

• Adventure at the edge: Exciting cliff jumps and wild swims in pristine waters
• Exclusive access: Explore hidden grottoes and rocky gullies only reachable by coasteering
• Safety & guidance: Professional guides tailor each session to your comfort level
• All gear included: Wetsuits, helmets, and buoyancy aids provided—just bring trainers and some shorts
• Flexible options: Jumping is always optional, so you can enjoy the scenery even if you’re not jumping
• Ideal for: Confident swimmers and active families; children must be at least 9 years old

An In-Depth Look at the Coasteering Experience

The Location: Peninnis Head on St. Mary’s

The selected spot for this adventure is Peninnis Head, a dramatic stretch of coastline on St. Mary’s that’s usually off-limits to casual explorers. Its steep granite cliffs, deep gullies, and sea caves create a playground full of surprises. The setting is visually stunning, with towering rocks, crystal-clear waters, and sweeping views of the Atlantic. Many reviewers mention how the scenery alone makes the trip worthwhile, with one user noting the “stunning views that make every leap and swim even more exciting.”

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The adventure begins at Peninnis Farm, where you’ll meet your guides—friendly, experienced, and clearly passionate about their work. After signing in and getting fitted with your wetsuit, helmet, and buoyancy aid, you’ll receive a thorough safety briefing. This part is crucial, especially if you’re new to coasteering, and the guides do a great job of explaining how to move confidently through the water and over rocks.

Once geared up, you’ll start exploring the granite playground. Expect a mix of wild swimming, rocky scrambling, and short climbs. The guides often introduce jumps of varying heights, starting small and working up depending on your comfort. Many guests mention how the guidance makes them feel safe, even when tackling the more daring jumps. One reviewer said, “Jumping was always optional, but it was hard to resist the allure of those crystal-clear waters.”

The Jumps and Swims

Cliff jumps are definitely the highlight for adrenaline lovers. The guides are accommodating—offering jumps of all sizes—so even those who are hesitant can find a suitable challenge. The most memorable jumps are often the ones that seem to go on forever, with many participants describing the sensation as exhilarating. For those less keen on jumping, the focus shifts to swimming through grottoes or scrambling over rocky ledges, which are equally thrilling.

The Challenges & Unique Features

Navigating narrow gullies and cracks in the granite is where your agility and confidence in open water are put to the test. Many guests appreciate the hands-on scrambling that makes the experience feel like a true adventure rather than a passive tour. The hidden grottoes and sea caves add an element of exploration that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.

The Safety & Group Dynamics

The guides from Kernow Coasteering, all native English speakers, are well-reviewed for their professionalism and friendliness. They adapt each session to the group’s ability, ensuring everyone feels confident and safe. It’s important to note, however, that participants should be able to swim at least 25 meters and have a basic fitness level. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult, making this suitable for adventurous families.

What to Bring & What’s Included

All equipment—wetsuits, helmets, buoyancy aids—is provided, removing the hassle of sourcing your gear. The tour recommends bringing trainers or lace-up shoes (no sandals or beach shoes), swimwear underneath the wetsuit, a towel, and an extra pair of shorts for over the wetsuit. The included gear helps make the activity accessible for most, although the snug fit of the wetsuit can be a point of comfort for some.

The Cost & Its Value

At $88 per person, this experience offers remarkable value given the quality of the guide-led adventure, stunning surroundings, and all gear included. Compared to other adventure activities in the UK, coasteering at Scilly provides a more intimate, nature-focused experience rather than a commercialized attraction. It’s a chance to truly connect with the Atlantic coast in a way that’s both intense and incredibly scenic.

The Duration & Logistics

The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, starting from the late morning or early afternoon—check availability for exact times. The meeting point is Peninnis Farm, just a short walk from Hugh Town, making logistics manageable even if you’re staying locally. Remember, you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the islands, as this experience does not include travel to and from the Isles of Scilly.

Why You Should Consider Booking

If you’re someone who loves active outdoor pursuits and wants to see the Isles of Scilly from an entirely different perspective, this coasteering adventure is ideal. It’s perfect for confident swimmers and those comfortable in open water, with the added bonus of being led by guides who prioritize safety and fun. Kids over 9 years old and their families will also find this a rewarding activity—just keep in mind the level of effort involved.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This coasteering experience caters mainly to adventure enthusiasts who aren’t afraid of a splash or two. If you’re looking for a thrilling, physically engaging activity that offers spectacular views and access to secluded coastal features, you’ll love it. Families with kids over 9 who are comfortable in open water can enjoy a shared adventure, but those with very young children or limited mobility might want to explore other options.

It’s also an excellent choice for solo travelers or small groups wanting a guided, safe, and memorable outdoor challenge. The activity’s flexibility—like optional jumps—means everyone can participate at their own comfort level. However, a basic level of fitness and confidence in swimming are essential.

Final Thoughts

The Isles of Scilly coasteering tour provides a unique way to experience some of the most stunning and accessible scenery on the Atlantic coast. It’s not just a physical challenge; it’s an immersive nature encounter that leaves you feeling exhilarated and connected to the landscape. Given the clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and the friendly, experienced guides, it offers excellent value for anyone craving a memorable outdoor adventure.

If you’re seeking an active, scenic, and genuinely engaging way to explore the coast—without the crowds or typical sightseeing—this coasteering trip fits the bill. It’s especially suitable for those comfortable in open water and eager to push beyond typical tourist trails.

FAQ

Is prior coasteering experience required?
No, previous experience isn’t necessary. The guides provide a thorough safety briefing and introductory guidance, making it accessible for beginners who are confident swimmers.

What should I wear for the activity?
You should bring swimwear to wear underneath your wetsuit, along with trainers or lace-up shoes (no sandals). A towel and some dry clothes are also recommended for afterwards.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 9 and above can join, but those under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Participants should be able to swim at least 25 meters.

What is included in the price?
All necessary gear—wetsuits, helmets, and buoyancy aids—is included. You just need to bring your footwear, swimwear, a towel, and an extra pair of shorts.

How long is the tour?
The adventure lasts approximately 3.5 hours, with starting times available from spring to autumn. Check with the provider for specific schedules.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
Many find the cliff jumps and wild swims to be the most memorable parts, offering a thrilling way to experience the stunning coastline of the Isles of Scilly.

This coasteering tour on St. Mary’s offers a fantastic blend of adventure, natural beauty, and expert guidance—perfect for travelers eager to explore the Atlantic coast in an active and memorable way.