All the early visitors, and indeed all visitors up to the present, with the exception of Napoleon, seem to have been impressed with the island. Because of its situation, offering a convenient refreshment station, there were continual efforts made by the Portuguese, the Dutch and the English to secure it.
Cruises to St. Helena
Atlantic Odyssey incl. Antarctic Peninsula to Cape Verde
26 Mar - 7 May, 2027
•Tripcode: PLA32D27
The Atlantic Odyssey cruise visits some of the remotest islands in the world, crossing the migratory paths of Arctic Terns, Long-tailed Skuas, other birds, and a variety of whales as they make their annual expeditions north for the breeding season.
Atlantic Odyssey incl. Antarctic Peninsula to Cape Verde
23 Mar - 4 May, 2026
•Tripcode: PLA31B26
The Atlantic Odyssey cruise visits some of the remotest islands in the world, crossing the migratory paths of Arctic Terns, Long-tailed Skuas, other birds, and a variety of whales as they make their annual expeditions north for the breeding season.
Atlantic Odyssey incl. Antarctic Peninsula to St. Helena
26 Mar - 27 Apr, 2027
•Tripcode: PLA32C27
The Atlantic Odyssey cruise visits some of the remotest islands in the world, crossing the migratory paths of Arctic Terns, Long-tailed Skuas, other birds, and a variety of whales as they make their annual expeditions north for the breeding season.
Atlantic Odyssey incl. Antarctic Peninsula to St. Helena
23 Mar - 24 Apr, 2026
•Tripcode: PLA31A26
The Atlantic Odyssey cruise visits some of the remotest islands in the world, crossing the migratory paths of Arctic Terns, Long-tailed Skuas, other birds, and a variety of whales as they make their annual expeditions north for the breeding season.
Atlantic Odyssey excl. Antarctic Peninsula to Cape Verde
4 Apr - 7 May, 2027
•Tripcode: PLA33C27
During the days at sea the chances of meeting whales are high. Witness the northbound spring migration of northern birds like Arctic Terns and Long-tailed Skuas who join us in crossing the Equator (“the Line”).
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A Photo-Tour of our Cruise Ship the m/v Plancius
Welcome aboard the Plancius! She was originally named the Hr. Ms. Tydeman and was built as an oceanographic research vessel for the royal Dutch Navy in 1976.
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St. Helena FAQ
What is the Temperature Like in Saint Helena?
The climate in St. Helena is typically mild and sub-tropical, which makes it a nice choice for an expedition. Throughout most of the year, the north leeward shore ranges from 17 to 24 degrees Celsius (63 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit), but this area warms up by about four degrees from January to April. The central section of St. Helena is usually cooler than the north leeward by approximately 5-6 degrees Celsius (9-10.8 degrees Fahrenheit).
What Wildlife Can I See in Saint Helena?
When you travel to the St. Helena region, you can expect to see a diverse variety of birds. Some of the most notable species include the Wirebird, and the St. Helena Waxbill. This remote island has a highly unusual amount of endemic birds, which has caused BirdLife International to recognize St. Helena as an important area for wildlife conservation. Therefore, a voyage to St. Helena can be a dream come true for birders.
What is the Capital of Saint Helena?
Jamestown is the capital of St. Helena, and it is on the north-western coast of the island. St Helena also has the distinction of being one of the oldest remaining British overseas territories. People who take a holiday to St. Helena end up traveling through Jamestown.
How Many People Live in Saint Helena?
St. Helena has a population of more than 4,200. The capital city, Jamestown, is home to 714 of these residents. However, Half Tree Hallow is actually the largest settlement in St. Helena with a population of 901 people.
Who Owns Saint Helena?
St. Helena is a British overseas territory. The island was discovered during a Portuguese voyage in 1502. The Dutch Republic claimed St. Helena first, but there is no evidence that they ever actually did anything with this claim. By 1659, a British Governor was in place. St. Helena has remained under British control ever since, with the brief exception of five months in 1673.
What Unique Features Does Saint Helena Have?
St. Helena is perhaps best known for housing a very famous prisoner from 1815 - 1821: Napoleon after his final defeat at Waterloo in Belgium. Most of the island has rugged topography, but it is also a popular spot for hikers. Diana’s Peak reaches 818 meters (2,684 feet) high, and it was designated in 1996 as St. Helena’s first national park. The island is part of a remote set of British controlled colonies, which also includes Ascension Island and Tristan da Cunha.
