Destination - St Helena

Discovered in 1502 by Portuguese navigator Joao da Nova, St Helena changed hands a number of times before finally coming under the control of the British during the sixteen century. St Helena was once a busy staging post for trade between England and the Far East, the island is now much quieter as shipping trade has diverted to quicker, alternative routes.

Just 47 square miles in area and with no natural harbour St Helena enjoys warm weather all year round. At higher elevations in the centre of the island it can be quite cool at night. There are two rainy seasons March-May and July-September.
St Helena is in part a wind-eroded desert with multi-hued ridges and 1000ft high cliffs of bronze coloured volcanic rock; part lush green pastures and vegetation filled valleys. The island has a number of unique, endemic plans and wildlife.

The islanders are affectionately known as ‘Saints’ and they are a happy mixture of people descendant of British East India Co workers, Boer prisoners of war, African and Chinese servants, amongst others. Saints are a friendly, helpful and cheerful people who will make you very welcome to their island.

A Voyage on the RMS St Helena...Beyond the Ordinary

With airport construction on St Helena well underway and with expectations for this to be fully operational by the end of 2015, we think a journey of the RMS St Helena is a must as this unique travel experience may be only something you can read about once the airport is operational.

The RMS St Helena is one of the last working Royal Mail ships. Set sail to the South Atlantic and discover the stunning island of St Helena. Voyages are available from Cape Town or alternatively take the shorter crossing from Ascension Island.
The RMS St Helena is a small ship and the emphasis for your journey is relaxation and time out. It is an opportunity to meet new people and to make life-long friends. Visits to the Bridge are available as well as all the traditional ocean-going activities such as deck games, quizzes, bingo and race nights. Lounge on the sun deck by the swimming pool. Visit the well stocked library for books, videos and audio tapes. Officers and staff will do everything possible to ensure you have a wonderful voyage and experience. The ship’s chef and galley staff take great pride in the quality of the meals served. Breakfast and lunch may be taken in the dinning saloon or in the sun lounge. Afternoon tea is served both in the main lounge and the sun lounge. A highlight of the day is the six-course dinner which is served in the attractive dinning saloon. If you have any special dietary requests, these can be catered for. The ship has two comfortable lounges, each with a bar. A limited steward service is available and guests are welcome to use the steward’s pantry. The RMS St Helena has a shop selling souvenirs and essentials. The Purser’s office provides limited banking facilities, operates as a post office and publishes the ship’s daily newspaper. Your laundry can be done for you or you can use the personal launderette fully equipped with washing, drying and ironing facilities.

The RMS St Helena also calls in at Cape Town and Ascension Island. To read more about this unique voyage, please click below on "Our Highlights" where we feature this trip.

See Our Highlights For St Helena