St Helena Cruise Guide

St Helena island rises sharply from the South Atlantic Ocean, its steep, volcanic cliffs cut with deep valleys. Barren, rocky shores give way to sub-tropical forest and grassland on this remote island.

Jamestown, the capital, nestles at the foot of a steep valley, and was a welcome port of call for sailing ships from the East India Company returning from their long ocean voyages in need of supplies and fresh fruit. Charles Darwin and Captain James Cook were among the illustrious visitors to the island. Today's friendly islanders are descendents of British settlers, slaves and indentured workers from Africa and the East.

The countryside is full of contrasts, from wind-eroded deserts to tree-covered hillsides and lush valleys. Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled to St Helena for the last six years of his life, and his Longwood House residence in Jamestown is filled with Napoleonic memorabilia. The town has many fascinating buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries.

The energetic can climb the 699 steps of Jacob's Ladder, or hike the steep hills hoping for a glimpse of the wirebird running through the long grass. Local taxis are a good way to tour the island and learn some of its fascinating history. Offshore wrecks offer excellent diving and snorkelling, but there are no good beaches for swimming. Join in a game of cricket or play 18 holes on one of the world's most remote golf courses. Deep sea game fishing can yield tuna, marline and barracuda.

Highlights
• Jacob's Ladder
• Longwood House
• Plantation House
• Lot's Wife Ponds

St Helena Tourist Office
Main Street, Jamestown, St. Helena Island, STHL 1ZZ
Tel: +290 2158.
Website: www.sthelena.se

Local crafts on St Helena are limited due to market demand. Souvenirs are available in Jamestown from the Art & Craft Centre and various souvenir shops. First Day Covers with St Helena stamps are a unique find.

Cuisine has been influenced by a long history of different seafaring inhabitants. Strong and spicy eastern flavours, bountiful seafood, tropical fruit and even traditional British fare of roast dinners and puddings.

Set in the tropical South Atlantic, this ancient volcanic island is blessed with a mild climate year-round.

Jamestown.

3.5km (2.1 miles).

10-15 minutes.

British Overseas Territories

GMT + 0.

St Helena pound (SH£) = 100 pence.

English.

In lonely isolation in the South Atlantic, 4400km (1700 miles) northwest of Cape Town, and 1125km (703 miles) southeast of Ascension Island.

4,000.

Constitutional monarchy (British Overseas Territory).

Christians with a majority of Anglicans.

The pace of life is relaxed and friendly. Remember to call a day ahead for dinner reservations - so the chef can buy the food and make sure the restaurant is open.

Tipping:
10% is the standard tip.