st helena island yacht club

• Food and Drink
• How to get to St Helena
• Where to stay
• General Travel Information

Visiting by Yacht

St Helena welcomes visiting yachts. There’s a growing interest in yachts seeking safe havens in new and unspoilt destinations. St Helena is conveniently positioned for passing sea traffic as it sits in the middle of West Africa and South America.

Click  HERE  for more information on St Helena’s moorings.

Yachts can be hoisted in an emergency and for small repairs, if spaces are available.  The current cost for hoisting and launching visiting yachts are £33.00.  On arrival immigration personnel will provide you with an information pack, however if you require further tourist information, please contact the Tourist Office on VHF channel 8.  St. Helena Radio (callsign “ZHH”) can be found on VHF Channel 16 and should be contactable from 20 nautical miles out. The harbourmaster can be contacted on VHF Channel 14.  St. Helena Radio keeps a continuous watch on International Distress Frequencies MF 2,182KHz and VHF Channel 16. It also monitors VHF channels 16 to 70, and HF channels ITU ch 1217, ITU ch 807 and ITU ch 414, providing radio assistance to visiting ships or yachts as well as local boats. It also acknowledges, relays and assists with distress calls for St. Helena, Ascension Island, or for any vessels at sea within the reception range of St. Helena.

There are two laundrettes, one located at Ladder Hill and the other in Jamestown. St Helena has only one harbour called James Bay which now benefits from a new field of robust mooring buoys. The rest of the coast is towering rocky cliffs, backed by lush green slopes, climbing up to the highest spot on the island, Diana’s Peak, at 823 metres.

St Helena’s popularity as a port of call for passenger liners has now been taken over by sailing yachts, a large number of which stop here every year. A warm welcome awaits the visiting sailor ashore in Jamestown, the island’s main settlement and only harbour.

ANN’S PLACE

“ a visit to Anne’s restaurant  [is]  not to be missed ” and “ Nothing compares with Anne’s fishcakes  […]  we had a couple of cold beers and Fishcakes that I will never forget as long as I live. Maybe it was 23 days at sea, but they were just so good. Made with fresh fish and chillies, they are to die for ”.

WORLD ARC RALLY

The rally last visited St. Helena in January 2015 and will visit again in 2017.

• Yachting World
• Digital Edition

Sailing to Saint Helena – one of the world’s most remote communities

• January 19, 2017

Diane Selkirk was utterly enchanted by the remote island outpost of Saint Helena

But to sail the same actual route – matching latitude and longitude while comparing the sea conditions and the daily mileage of the HMS Endeavour with our Woods catamaran Ceilydh – was a first for us.

Cook’s log: “Wednesday, April 24th 1771. Gentle breezes, and Clear weather. Wind South-East by South to West-South-West; course North 46 degrees West; distance 98 miles; latitude 26 degrees 19 minutes South, longitude 350 degrees 42 minutes West.”

It’s always a delight when a passage that promises easy sailing lives up to expectation. After the challenge of the Indian Ocean, the mellow South Atlantic felt like a reward. But unlike the much heavier Endeavour, our 40ft catamaran averaged over 6 knots in winds that were 10-12 knots from astern. While he was making 100-mile days, we pulled ahead with 150-mile ones. It seemed the distraction of our cross-century race with Cook would be short lived.

Racing Cook across the South Atlantic

When you are surrounded on all sides by water, it’s easy to lose track of the hours. Have we been out three or four days? When we changed time zones did the clock go forward or back? Passages that last more than four days become timeless. Days are divided into meals, watches, naps, sunset, moonrise and dawn. The rest of the world recedes; small things punctuate the days. The colour of the water for instance: close to the coast it was a nutrient-rich murky green. And it was chilly. We slept under fluffy blankets and drank litres of hot tea. Exiting the cold, north flowing Benguela Current, the water warmed; increasing from 12°C to 18°C over the distance of 100 miles and then it turned a brilliant tropical blue. But the sea birds were gone; there were no more albatross, kites or terns. We didn’t look out to see seals floating head down with their flippers warming in the sun. Visits by dolphins also dropped off, making the ocean seem vast, empty and endless.

Skip Novak on why a catamaran wins out if destination is more important than sailing .

“Friday, April 26th 1771. Fresh Gales, and a large Swell from the Southward. Wind South-South-West, South-East by South; course North 50 degrees West; distance 168 miles; latitude 21 degrees 40 minutes South, longitude 354 degrees 12 minutes West.”

The rocky coast of Saint Helena appears off the bow.

Almost on cue, our conditions changed to match Cook’s. The GRIBs showed a low in the Southern Ocean which was sending up a steep mixed swell. The wind soon followed. Now we were neck and neck in this odd competition; the Endeavour’s noon position almost matched our own. Two days before reaching Saint Helena, we both crossed the Prime Meridian. For Cook it meant he had, “Circumnavigated the Globe in a West direction.” For us it marked 30,000 miles of voyaging and a return to the western hemisphere, but we were still a long way from Vancouver, our home in Canada.

About 20 miles out, I sighted the volcanic bulk of Saint Helena. Charles Darwin wrote: “Saint Helena rises abruptly like a huge black castle from the ocean.” Closer to the coast, we spotted stone fortifications built into the cliff faces, reinforcing the impression that we had fallen through the centuries and were approaching a mid-ocean fortress.

“Wednesday, May 1st 1771. At 6 A.M. saw the Island of St. Helena bearing West, distant 8 or 9 Leagues. At Noon Anchor’d in the Road, before James’s Fort, in 24 fathoms water. Found riding here His Majesty’s Ship Portland and Swallow Sloop, and 12 Sail of Indiaman. At our first seeing the Fleet in this Road we took it for granted that it was a War; but in this we were soon agreeably deceived.”

• 1. Introduction
• 2. Five centuries of seafaring
• 4. Leaving celebrations

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Epic Sailing Voyage to St Helena from Cape Town Across South Atlantic

Cape town, south africa.

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Activity Highlights:

An epic crossing of the South Atlantic Ocean from Cape Town, including five days exploring Saint Helena Island.

Leg One: Cape Town to St Helena Island

Your own berth with plenty of space for luggage in a shared cabin ‘Aurora’ has four cabins. Each cabin has two berths (bunk style) and it’s own ‘heads’ (toilet and basin).

Leg Two: St Helena to Cape Town

Leg 2 is big swells and dynamic sailing conditions. It’s all proper sailing. Wet feet and big smiles.

Full Trip: 48 days

The full works – 48 days of epic sailing adventure!

25 March – 11 May 2024

7 October – 23 November 2024

13 January – 1 March 2025

10 March – 26 April 2025

25 August – 11 October 2025

27 October – 13 December 2025

FROM£6,995 /pp and PAY ONLY £699.50 /PP DEPOSIT

Embark on an extraordinary voyage that goes far beyond the ordinary. You’ll not only sail across the majestic ocean but also gain the knowledge and skills necessary to plan and execute a major ocean crossing. Guided by our seasoned skipper and first mate, this journey is a blend of hands-on sailing and immersive exploration.

Our epic adventure is divided into two distinct legs, offering the flexibility to join either segment, or for those with a daring spirit, the entire round trip.

Both legs include approximately five days of exploration on the enchanting St Helena Island, with cozy island accommodation included in your package.

Leg 1 kicks off in the vibrant city of Cape Town, where you’ll dive into our “Prep Week” at the renowned Royal Cape Yacht Club. Here, you’ll acquire all the essential knowledge for planning and undertaking a major ocean voyage. We’ll then set sail along Africa’s breathtaking coast up to Lüderitz, Namibia. This leg provides an opportunity to log your 60nm skippered passages if you’re aiming for a qualification. After a couple of days exploring the desert ‘ghost’ town of Kolmanskop, we’ll venture across the South Atlantic to the sub-tropical wonder that is St Helena island. Here, you’ll spend five magical days soaking up the island’s beauty, with bed and breakfast included. At this point, you can either fly back from St Helena with direct flights to Johannesburg or stay on board for leg 2. The first leg lasts around five weeks.

Leg 2 starts with incoming crew members flying into St Helena about five days before the return trip. Enjoy the island’s attractions before the arrival of Aurora, our trusty vessel, and help with preparations for the voyage ahead. Departing St Helena, we’ll head west into the South Atlantic before making our way south towards Tristan Da Cunha. As we journey through this remote and wild stretch of the world, expect changing weather and rolling seas, providing a genuine adventure sailing experience. Don’t worry, our seasoned crew is well-versed in these waters and will ensure your safety. This leg is an ideal opportunity to practice Celestial Navigation and, at over 1,500 nautical miles, counts as your “mileage” trip if you’re pursuing an RYA qualification. This leg takes approximately three weeks.

For the most adventurous, the full round-trip journey spans 48 days and covers approximately 4,500 nautical miles.

Join us for this incredible sailing adventure, where we combine the thrill of exploration with the art of sailing. Let’s make some waves together!

Key Highlights

• Epic Ocean Sailing: Sail the Atlantic. The REAL Atlantic – not the North Atlantic that “everyone” does – This is the South Atlantic. Massive, desolate and isolated.  The return trip is over 4,500 incredible sea miles.
• Experience Everything: You’ll get involved in every part of planning and executing a big ocean trip with loads of time for questions and discussion along the way. Perfect for those studying for a qualification, building miles or anyone who wants to experience ‘blue water’ sailing.
• Amazing Stopovers: Two wonderful stops. The sleepy desert town of Luderitz in Namibia with time to visit the ‘ghost town’ of Kolmanskop (Leg 1) and five days on St Helena island, with accommodation included – a “must see” Island. Visit Napoleon’s tomb, see the world’s oldest living animal or hike the islands subtropical forests. Our crews are always welcomed.

Prep Week: Your journey starts in Cape Town at the Royal Cape Yacht Club, where we spend the week fully preparing ‘Aurora’ for the expedition ahead. Over the week you will get to know your fellow crew and the vessel from end to end. We have a detailed checklist, deciding on a menu plan, shopping, passage planning and much more – there’s a lot to do, but it’s fun and all under expert supervision.

Sail Cape Town to Namibia: A gentle sail up the beautiful African coastline. You will get used to the watch system and sailing together. For those who need, you can use this leg for your skippered 60NM passage or just relax and spot the dolphins that often follow us up the coast.

Exploring Ludertiz: We stay a couple of days in the historic, desert town of Ludertiz in Namibia. Time to relax, stock up for the voyage ahead and also perhaps take a trip out to Kolmanskop – an abandoned German mining town where you can get a guide to explain it’s history and then wander the town at leisure, exploring the buildings slowly filling with sand

Sail to St Helena Island: We set sail for  St Helena island, more than 1,000miles in the middle of the South Atlantic. The weather and sea state tends to be gentle, but this is a true ‘blue water’ passage that will take between 10 – 12 days – far from the coast, where Whales are often our only company.

5 Days on St Helena Island: St Helena remains one of the world’s most isolated places – only accessible by boat until a couple of years ago and still wonderfully remote and unspoilt.  Arriving by yacht is the best way to appreciate it.  Once ashore, we settle into the cosy Blue Lantern hotel (Bed and Breakfast include in the trip cost). You can visit Napoleon’s house and indeed his tomb or you can say hello to Jonathan the tortoise, the world’s oldest living animal (190 years-old!). Relax with a beer in the old-world charm of Jamestown or take a hike into the Jungle on one of the ‘post-box’ trails. There is so much to do and see. St Helena always gives our crew a fabulous welcome – we spend approx. 5 days on the island, before we wave farewell and return to sea.

Sailing the South Atlantic Ocean to Cape Town: The return to Cape Town is a true expedition sail. Heading out into the wild South Atlantic, routing towards Tristan Da Cunha, you will experience every kind of weather and, at times, this is really challenging sailing where you will make use of everything you’ve learned so far. Out here is the perfect place to learn and practice Celestial Navigation. We spend time each day on all aspects of sailing theory and practice. We’ve done the trip countless times and know these waters extremely well – so safety will never be a concern but it’s a long leg and when Cape town appears on the horizon, you will know you have achieved a truly “once in a lifetime” ocean adventure.

Your Skipper

Wavy is our lead Skipper. He has patience and experience in equal measure and will ensure you thoroughly enjoy the trip, no matter your previous level of experience. With over 650,000 of Ocean sailing behind him and many years as an RYA instructor to Ocean level, you will be in capable hands from start to end.

The Boat, AKA ‘Aurora’

“Aurora” is an “Atlantic 49” – a fully kitted out 50foot expedition vessel, based in Cape Town. She is built for crossing oceans rather than luxury but is spacious and comfortable below and above deck.

Your will have your own berth with plenty of space for luggage. “Aurora” has four cabins, Each cabin has two berths (bunk style) and it’s own ‘heads’ (toilet and basin).

Accommodation

On St Helena Island, we will stay with our ‘friends’ Dustin and Keith at the Blue Lantern bed and breakfast. Situated in the middle of Jamestown, just minutes from the harbour and town centre.

The welcome is always fantastic and, if we’re honest, our crews are always especially well treated. We will share a list of things to see and do on the island, or you are welcome to simply relax.

We offer one-of-a-kind opportunities to embark on bespoke expeditions and sailing adventures across the globe. Each unique journey accommodates a cosy group of no more than six individuals, offering you an immersive, hands-on sailing experience guided by some of the planet’s most seasoned skippers.

The beauty of these small group expeditions is that they provide ample time for learning and plenty of flexibility to customise each adventure based on the group’s preferences. Our trips are meticulously planned, taking into account the unique wishes of each participant. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or you’re just dipping your toes in the waters of sailing, they’ve got you covered. Our promise is to ensure that you feel comfortable, safe, and above all, have an unforgettable adventure.

Prior to the voyage, we touch base with every crew member to understand your specific needs and aspirations for the trip. This careful preparation allows us to personalise the journey to ensure you get the most out of your time with them.

Our adventure company was born out of a passion for making ocean exploration accessible to all. The founders, Dave and Andrew, first met in 2018 during a sailing expedition. United by their love for the sea, they established this company during the Covid lockdown with a shared dream of crafting exceptional, custom sailing adventures. Their vision, combined with the expertise of the world’s top skippers, allows us to offer small-group sailing experiences to fantastic destinations, guaranteeing unparalleled ocean adventures.

Prepare to set sail on an adventure of a lifetime. Incredible destinations, unforgettable experiences, and lifelong friendships await you on the horizon!

How to Book

Make your booking using the form above. When you complete this form, we will receive your request. You will be able to speak to us about the trip and we will confirm your spot before you pay.

To book  Leg One only , see the dates above and choose the start of the trip on the booking form – this will cost £6,995 per person. To book  Leg Two only , choose the start of the second leg on the booking form – this will cost £6,995 per person. To book the  full trip , choose the start of the trip on the booking form and select ‘upgrade to round trip’ below the calendar. This will total £9,995 per person.

What's Included:

• Safety equipment including life-jackets.
• All mooring and port entry fees for the boat.
• Sailing instruction from a world-leading skipper and first mate.
• Celestial Navigation training and practice.
• Five nights bed & breakfast on St Helena island.

What's Not Included:

• Transport to the boat.
• Shore excursions.

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Lowest price guarantee

If you find this activity for cheaper within 24 hours of booking, we will refund the difference! 

How it works: 

• Make a booking.
• The centre will accept your booking.
• Pay to confirm it.

The centre normally replies in 1-2 hours.

If you have specific questions, please put them in the comments section, and the centre will answer them before you pay.

Send us a message in the live chat if you are unsure! 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have sailing experience?

We design the trips for a wide range of experience which that means that even if you’ve not sailed, our experienced Skippers will ensure you have a fantastic time.

Longer legs will suit “mile builders” who already have some sailing qualifications, and we can spend time supporting you with everything from helming to celestial navigation!

Before you join, we’ll ask you about your previous sailing experience and what you want to get out of the trip. That way, we’ll tailor the adventure to your specific needs.

What equipment do I need?

We supply life-jackets and all safety equipment. You may bring your own foul weather gear, or we can loan you some if required. We send out a detailed kit list before the trip.

Can I keep in contact with friends and family when I am on the trip?

Mobile phones will not work for most of the voyage and Internet connection on St Helena island is very expensive. However, we actively encourage “Supporters” (friends and family) to join in with your adventure. We create a supporters group and each day, share a Blog, written from the boat. Supporters and crew can exchange short messages via our ship’s email account. Each trip has a dedicated shore contact who will be there for the supporters – answering their questions and making sure they keep fully up to date with your adventure – we often have 150 supporters following the trip!

Can I extend my stay on St Helena Island?

Included in the price of the trip is 5 or 6 nights accommodation, bed and breakfast at the Blue Lantern Hotel.

If we are delayed in departing St Helena island, we will cover additional accommodation costs.

If Leg 1 Crew wish to extend your stay, or leg 2 wish to arrive earlier, please let us know in advance. We will book the additional nights for you directly with Blue Lantern at our discounted rate (approx. £50 per person per night). Note that accommodation tends to book up very quickly on the island, so please let us know well in advance.

Likewise, if you wish for friends to join you on the island, let us know and we will arrange this directly with Blue Lantern so everyone is together. You will need to pay us directly in advance for us to secure the additional times for you. Full details will be shared nearer the time.

What are the best flights to and from the island?

Flights too and from St Helena island are operated by Airlink. They fly direct to Jo’burg twice per week. Flights do get booked up far in advance so our recommendation is to book the Airlink flight as soon as you book the trip. We are not responsible for your flights to / from the island but of course, will do our best to help in case of any questions.

Extras and Options

Book Single Leg (default based on selected start-date above)

When you book, you can choose either Leg One or Leg Two. One leg costs £6,995 per person. However, if you opt to upgrade to full trip, you will get your second leg for just £3,000.

Book Full Round Trip (Legs 1 & 2) (+£3,000)

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Cancellation Policy

• You can cancel until 48 hours before your booking for a full refund.
• If you cancel after that, you’ll pay 50% up to 24 hours beforehand and the full amount after 24 hours.
• Where applicable, deposit payments are non-refundable.
• You can cancel until 5 days before your booking for a full refund.
• If you cancel after that, you’ll pay 50% up to 48 hours beforehand and the full amount after 48 hours.
• To receive a full refund, you must cancel at least 14 days before their booking.
• If you cancel between 7 and 14 days before your booking, you’ll pay 50% of the cost.
• If you cancel less than 7 days before the booking starts, you’ll pay the full amount.
• To receive a full refund, you must cancel at least 30 days before your booking.
• If you cancel between 7 and 30 days before your booking, you’ll pay 50% of the cost.
• You can also receive a full refund if you cancel within 48 hours of paying if the cancellation occurs at least 14 days before the booking starts.

Custom Cancellation Policy

The group size is kept very small on our trips which gives you a real ‘masterclass’ with our highly experienced Skippers However, that means each place is valuable and we need full groups.

We ask for a 10% deposit to secure your berth, with the balance being due 6 weeks before departure.

If you cancel your place over 6 weeks out, we’ll retain the deposit, but no other fees will be due.

If you cancel 6 weeks or less, the full price will be payable.

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South Africa · October

St Helena 2024

An epic crossing of the South Atlantic Ocean from Cape Town, including five days exploring Saint Helena Island

An incredible adventure sail that will teach you exactly what is needed to plan and sail a major Ocean crossing. Led by an experienced skipper and first mate but so much more than sailing. The trip is split into two legs - you can join either leg, or the full return trip. Both legs include approximately five days exploring St Helena Island itself with accommodation on the island included in the price. Leg 1 starts in Cape Town, where you will join "Prep week" at the Royal Cape Yacht club - learning everything you need to plan and execute a major Ocean voyage. We then sail up the coast of Africa to Lüderitz, in Namibia. During this leg, you can log your 60nm skippered passages if you are working towards a qualification. We stop a couple of days in Lüderitz and you can explore the desert 'ghost' town of Kolmanskop. We then head across the South Atlantic to St Helena island and you will spend five days with bed and breakfast included, exploring this magical Sub-tropical island. You then have the option to fly back from St Helena Island with direct flights to Jo'burg, or continue with us to leg 2. Leg one is approximately five weeks Leg 2 crew fly onto the island about five days before the return journey. You will stay on the island and explore all that there is to see and do - You will see Aurora arrive and can assist in preparing for the voyage ahead - you can also meet the incoming crew and enjoy exploring the island with them. We depart St Helena Island and route West initially, heading deep into the South Atlantic before turning South towards Tristan Da Cunha. This is a wild and isolated part of the world with dynamic and changing weather and big seas. This is real adventure sailing where you will be challenged, but rest assured we have huge experience out here and will keep you safe. Leg 2 is perfect for practicing Celestial Navigation and, at over 1,500nautical miles counts as your "mileage" trip if you are working towards an RYA qualification. Leg 2 is approximately 3 weeks in length. If you join the both legs, the full trip is 48days and covers approximately 4,500nautical miles.

EPIC OCEAN SAILING

Sail the Atlantic. The REAL Atlantic - not the North Atlantic that “everyone” does – This is the South Atlantic. Massive, desolate and isolated.  The return trip is over 4,500 incredible sea miles.

EXPERIENCE EVERYTHING

You’ll get involved in every part of planning and executing a big ocean trip with loads of time for questions and discussion along the way. Perfect for those studying for a qualification, building miles or anyone who wants to experience ‘blue water’ sailing.

AMAZING STOPOVERS

Two wonderful stops. The sleepy desert town of Luderitz with time to visit the ‘ghost town’ of Kolmanskop (Leg 1) and five days on St Helena island, with accommodation included - a “must see” Island. Visit Napoleon's tomb, see the world's oldest living animal or hike the islands subtropical forests. Wavysail crews are always welcomed.

Wavy Immelman

Wavy is the co-founder of Wavysail and our lead Skipper. He has patience and experience in equal measure and will ensure you thoroughly enjoy the trip, no matter your previous level of experience. With over 650,000 of Ocean sailing behind him and many years as an RYA instructor to Ocean level, you will be in capable hands from start to end.

Leg 1: Day 1 to 7 - Prep Week

Your journey starts in Cape Town at the Royal Cape Yacht Club, where we spend the week fully preparing “Aurora” for the expedition ahead. Over the week you will  get to know your fellow crew and the vessel from end to end. We have a detailed checklist, deciding on a Menu plan, shopping, passage planning and much more - there’s a lot to do, but it’s fun and all under expert supervision

Atlantic Ocean

Leg 1: Day 7 to 14 - Sail Cape Town to Namibia

A gentle sail up the beautiful African coastline. You will get used to the watch system and sailing together. For those who need, you can use this leg for your skippered 60NM passage or just relax and spot the dolphins that often follow us up the coast.

St. Helena Island

Leg 1: Day 15 - 17 Three days exploring Lüderitz

We stay a couple of days in the historic, desert town of Ludertiz. Time to relax, stock up for the voyage ahead and also perhaps take a trip out to Kolmanskop - an abandoned German mining town where you can get a guide to explain it’s history and then wander the town at leisure, exploring the buildings slowly filling with sand

South Atlantic Ocean

Leg 1 : Day 17 - 29 Sailing to St Helena island

We set sail for  St Helena island, more than 1,000miles in the middle of the South Atlantic. The weather and sea state tends to be gentle, but this is a true ‘blue water’ passage that will take between 10 - 12 days - far from the coast, where Whales are often our only company.

Saint Helena island

Leg 1 & 2: Five days on St Helena island

St Helena remains one of the world’s most isolated places – only accessible by boat until a couple of years ago and still wonderfully remote and unspoilt.  Arriving by yacht is the best way to appreciate it.  Once ashore, we settle into the cosy Blue Lantern hotel (Bed and Breakfast include in the trip cost). You can visit Napoleon’s house and indeed his tomb or you can say hello to Jonathan the tortoise, the world’s oldest living animal (190years old!). Relax with a beer in the old-world charm of Jamestown or take a hike into the Jungle on one of the ‘post-box’ trails. There is so much to do and see. St Helena always gives Wavysail crew a fabulous welcome – we spend approx. 5 days on the island, before we wave farewell and return to sea. 

South Atlantic Ocean to Cape Town

Leg 2 : Sailing the South Atlantic Ocean to Cape Town

The return to Cape Town is a true expedition sail. Heading out into the wild South Atlantic, routing towards Tristan Da Cunha, you will experience every kind of weather and, at times, this is really challenging sailing where you will make use of everything you’ve learned so far. Out here is the perfect place to  learn and practice Celestial Navigation. We spend time each day on all aspects of sailing theory and practice. We’ve done the trip countless times and know these waters extremely well - so safety will never be a concern but it’s a long leg and when Cape town appears on the horizon, you will know you have achieved a truly “once in a lifetime” ocean adventure.

What's Included

Safety equipment including life-jackets.

All mooring and port entry fees for the boat.

Sailing instruction from a world leading skipper and first mate

Celestial Navigation training and practice

Five nights bed & breakfast on St Helena island

What's Not Included

Transport to the boat

Shore excursions

Booking options

Leg 1 - start 7th oct '24 cape town. end 5th november '24 , st helena island.

Your own berth with plenty of space for luggage in a shared cabin “Aurora” has four cabins, Each cabin has two berths (bunk style) and it’s own ‘heads’ (toilet and basin)

Leg 2 - Start 2nd Nov '24, St Helena. End 25th Nov '24 Cape Town

Leg 2 is big swells and dynamic sailing conditions. It's all proper sailing. Wet feet and big smiles

Full Trip, 7th October '24 - 25th Nov '24 - 48 days

The full works - 48 days of epic sailing adventure!

Open oceans Place

Ahoy Open oceans only

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Our Sailing route

LEG 1 : After prep week in Cape Town, we head to Lüderitz before striking out across the South Atlantic to St Helena island. We will spend five days on the island.

LEG 2:  After exploring the island, leg 1 crew fly home while leg 2 crew follow the St Helena weather system south towards Tristan da Cunha before turning East, arriving back at Cape Town.

You'll Be Staying Here

"Aurora" is an "Atlantic 49" - a fully kitted out 50foot expedition vessel, based in Cape Town. She is built for crossing oceans rather than luxury but is spacious and comfortable below and above deck.

Your will have your own berth with plenty of space for luggage.  “Aurora” has four cabins, Each cabin has two berths (bunk style) and it’s own ‘heads’ (toilet and basin). 

Blue Lantern Bed & Breakfast

We will stay with our 'friends' Dustin and Keith at the Blue Lantern bed and breakfast. Situated in the middle of Jamestown, just minutes from the harbour and town centre. 

The welcome is always fantastic and, if we're honest, Wavysail crews are always especially well treated. We will share a list of things to see and do on the island, or you are welcome to simply relax.

Related Blog Posts

Our Skipper will write a daily blog from the boat each day so Friends and Family can also track progress of the yacht and hear about life on board. They can also send messages for crew to our shore support staff, who will forward to the Aurora via Satellite link once per day.

Exploring St Helena island

By boat to St Helena. Exploring the island and making friends for life

Kelly Rose · Wed 11 Jan 2023

Sail to the desert, Ghost towns and Diamonds in Namibia

Arrival at st helena.

Daily Blog of the Cape Town to St Helena adventure sail - October 2021

On our way home (just 20 days to go!)

Island adventure on St Helena and prepping for home

Calm winds, chocolate brownies and a bit of food safety

The crew discover why food rotation is important

Do I need to be experienced in sailing?

We design the trips for a wide range of experience which that means that even if you’ve not sailed, our experienced Skippers will ensure you have a fantastic time

Longer legs will suit “mile builders” who already have some sailing qualifications, and we can spend time supporting you with everything from helming to celestial navigation!

Before you join, we’ll ask you about your previous sailing experience and what you want to get out of the trip. That way, we’ll tailor the adventure to your specific needs

What equipment do I need?

We supply life-jackets and all safety equipment. You may bring your own foul weather gear, or we can loan you some if required. We send out a detailed kit list before the trip

What's the cancellation policy?

The group size is kept very small on our trips which gives you a real ‘masterclass’ with our highly experienced Skippers However, that means each place is valuable and we need full groups

We ask for a 10% deposit to secure your berth, with the balance being due 6 weeks before departure

If you cancel your place over 6 weeks out, we’ll retain the deposit, but no other fees will be due

If you cancel 6 weeks or less, the full price will be payable (unless the cancellation is covered by our Covid policy)

Can I keep in contact with friends and family during the trip?

Mobile phones will not work for most of the voyage and Internet connection on St Helena island is very expensive. However, we actively encourage “Supporters” (friends and family) to join in with your adventure. We create a supporters group and each day, share a Blog, written from the boat. Supporters and crew can exchange short messages via our ship’s email account. Each trip has a dedicated shore contact who will be there for the supporters - answering their questions and making sure they keep fully up to date with your adventure - we often have 150 supporters following the trip!

Can I extend my stay on St Helena island

Included in the price of the trip is 5 or 6 nights accommodation, bed and breakfast at the Blue Lantern Hotel.  

 If we are delayed in departing St Helena island, Wavysail will cover additional accommodation costs.

If Leg 1 Crew wish to extend your stay, or leg 2 wish to arrive earlier, please let us know in advance. We will book the additional nights for you directly with Blue Lantern at our discounted rate (approx. £50 per person per night). Note that accommodation tends to book up very quickly on the island, so please let us know well in advance.

Likewise, if you wish for friends to join you on the island, let us know and we will arrange this directly with Blue Lantern so everyone is together. You will need to pay Wavysail directly in advance for us to secure the additional times for you. Full details will be shared nearer the time.

What are the best flights to or from the island?

Flights too and from St Helena island are operated by Airlink. They fly direct to Jo'burg twice per week. Flights do get booked up far in advance so our recommendation is to book the Airlink flight as soon as you book the Wavysail trip. We are not responsible for your flights too / from the island but of course, will do our best to help in case of any questions.

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• Coffee House

Following Napoleon: my exile in St Helena

• From magazine issue: 27 April 2024

Douglas Murray

Douglas Murray has narrated this article for you to listen to.

In an attempt to escape from the world, I have come with friends to St Helena. It is quite a good place for the exercise. Until a few years ago the only way to get to the island was a five-day boat voyage from Cape Town. Shortly before Covid, an airport for this British overseas territory was finally completed at UK taxpayer expense. To protect some local insects the runway was put at a slightly wrong angle, making it difficult – sometimes impossible – to land. The weekly flight from Johannesburg therefore refuels in Namibia in case landing is impossible and the plane has to about-turn.

A lifesize statue of Napoleon stands on the balcony. It takes a few days to get used to him

Jamestown is not the busiest metropolis, but for the island’s population of around 4,000 people this harbour town is the hub. The Consulate Hotel on the main street running down to the sea is run by the lovely Hazel and is a warren of rooms and memorabilia relating to the island. A lifesize statue of Napoleon Bonaparte stands on the balcony overlooking the street. It takes a few days to get used to him being over your shoulder as you take a morning coffee or the first drink of the day.

Exploring the hotel, I found a grand piano and put my fingers to work. While playable, it was slightly out of tune. I enquired whether this could be fixed and it was explained that the island’s piano tuner is in jail.

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Down by the harbour that evening, I got chatting to a local friend who – like all the other islanders – attended the only school, which is named after Prince Andrew. I asked her whether it would be possible to spring the piano tuner from the local chokey even for a few hours. She told me that St Helena’s prison is at capacity. Even on holiday this is the sort of thing that interests me. I learned that there is one murderer on the island, happily now free, but that most of the inmates were there for the sort of sex offences that regrettably happen in small, remote communities where people are related.

As we were having this conversation, I became aware of a local drunk looking at us. I occasionally darted a look to check he wasn’t overhearing. He was, and sloped towards our table. ‘I ain’t no paedophile,’ he said. ‘I don’t believe I said you were,’ I replied. ‘I ain’t sold no children,’ he went on. ‘You was looking at me whole time you have that talk.’ Slipping into the fascinating local patois, my friend managed to talk him down. We avoided further crowding the prison and parted with a reassurance from me that I agreed he had never sold his daughters.

Of course the most famous prisoner to have been on this island was Napoleon. One night we had a glorious dinner at his island abode – Longwood House – which has been magnificently restored. The view from Napoleon’s quarters is one of the best on the island, which is saying something. It is like a mini world out there, with vast mountain crops, lush greenery and of course thousands of miles of empty ocean.

People are no longer brought up to believe in the Great Man view of history, but you cannot doubt it here. There is a startling aura about the place. The idea that this man required battalions of British troops to be stationed on the island, forts on every hilltop and a fleet of British ships surrounding it, just to keep him confined is testament to the fact that whatever else he got wrong, he was a great man. One of my friends caught me alone in Napoleon’s coffee parlour, staring out across the South Atlantic. ‘What are you thinking about?’ he asked.

‘Europe. Moscow,’ I told him.

I have been unfair to the local inhabitants. Most of the ‘Saints’ (as they are known) are superlatively lovely people. During the Sunday morning service, the ‘sign of the peace’ bit involved meeting the whole congregation. They are also a genuinely diverse people with a DNA pool which is as mixed as any on Earth. And they are proud of their British status, without any of the concomitant guilts forced on us at home. During the long and ruminous construction of the airport, the bones of several hundred former slaves were uncovered. They turned out to be the bones of slaves freed by the British from Portuguese ships. St Helena was a crucial port for the West Africa Squadron, tasked with stamping out the slave trade across the High Seas. One local piece of development is the rebuilding of Toby’s cottage. This is the former residence of a slave who became friends with Napoleon and to whom Napoleon gave a sum of money to be free.

Today, neither credit cards nor debit cards work on the island, phones barely do, and the wifi is patchy. To get money you have to go to the only branch of the island’s bank, show plenty of ID and sign many forms. With my £50 (plus commission) I can stand drinks for several nights. This is the sort of solitude I seek. I catch up on a pile of books, swim in the harbour and say hello to people I haven’t seen for hours.

The most striking thing about the island is not just its lushness but its extraordinary biodiversity. There are about five different landscapes across the island, from ones that look like the moon to others that look like England and others that look like nowhere else on Earth.

Down by the ocean is a memorial to the dead of the island from the two world wars and also a memorial to the crew of RFA Darkdale , which was torpedoed at anchor off St Helena in the early hours of 22 October 1941. The rollcall of the dead includes a 30-year-old Neil McMillan from Stornoway and 27-year-old John Macleod, 2nd Radio officer, from the Hebridean village my father grew up in. Like many a previous inhabitant of the island, I walk away reflecting that even when you come to the uttermost parts of the Earth, home follows you.

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The Governor’s Cup

The Cape to St Helena yacht race

I hold that competition in one form or another will always exist, and that it is highly desirable it should. {b}

A bi-annual yacht race from South Africa to St Helena

From its inception the race was known as The Governor’s Cup , but since 2018 it has been branded as the Cape to St Helena Race , although the trophy awarded to the winning yacht is still called The Governor’s Cup (after Governor Smallman , who donated it ).

The race was conceived by former Captain of the RMS St Helena (1990-2018) Captain David Roberts, after he watched the Cape to Rio fleet sail through Duncan Dock to Table Bay from the Royal Cape Yacht Club in January 1996. He was quoted on the occasion of the first race for The Governor’s Cup later that year:

What could be more romantic and exciting than watching this colourful fleet sail out to the start, impatient for the gun to sound so they could be off and racing for their exotic destination. All this, staged in the amphitheatre of Table Bay with its majestic mountain. Truly inspirational. Well, on this occasion it proved to be, because in the hour that I stood on the bridge-wing of my ship, safely tied up alongside Duncan Dock, the idea began to form of just such a race, but this time to the Island of St Helena.

By 11 th  January, when the RMS St Helena (1990-2018) arrived at Jamestown , he had formed a firm idea of how the event might be organised, which he outlined to then Governor David Smallman . As a sailor himself Governor Smallman was enthusiastic and suggested that, given that there was an Admiral’s Cup yacht race, then perhaps we might call the Cape to St Helena race ‘The Governor’s Cup Race’.

A presentation was made to the Committee and interested members of the Royal Cape Yacht Club in June that year and the Governor’s Discretionary Fund was able to finance the purchase of the trophy. Later, Governor Smallman was able to arrange that Steve Tshwete , the South African Government Minister for Sport, attend an official reception and lunch on the Sun Deck on the RMS, and Steve Tshwete started that first race out in Table Bay by sounding the ship’s siren.

Governor Smallman recalls {1} :

It was the yachties’ idea to have what was billed as a ‘Round the Island Race’ with all volunteers to be found a berth on board a yacht. The response was amazing and a large number of young Saints had their first experience of being under sail. I decided to build on this by proposing to start a sail-training scheme; and this is where the Canadian, Nina Maclennan comes into the picture. Nina’s late husband had been a keen sailor and member of the Royal Cape Yacht Club, which had led to her following that first Race to St Helena aboard the RMS. She saw how much the young Saints had enjoyed themselves and when I told her about my plan for a sail-training scheme she promised a cash donation towards the cost of the dinghies that I hoped to obtain. With the help of the Royal Cape Yacht Club I chose to purchase two Saldanha dinghies in South Africa. The City of London Leathersellers Company, one of the ancient Livery Companies founded by Royal Charter in 1444 and situated in St Helen’s Place in London, was more than pleased to make a major contribution towards financing my project. Thus, with the Leathersellers’ generous contribution, Nina’s donation, and a small grant from the Governor’s Discretionary Fund we were able to purchase and ship the dinghies to St Helena. The sail-training project was popular and presided over by Graham Sim. With the help of a couple of ex-pat sailors, the project prepared a group of youngsters to finish their training in Cape Town . There they formed the crews of the yachts Group 4 , skippered by Paul Bennett, and Sprint , the yacht sponsored by Curnow Shipping and skippered by Jonathan Blaine, for the 1998 Governor’s Cup Race. All acquitted themselves well. Their success, and enthusiasm for sailing, led me to suggest that the sail-training project and its assets be transferred to a sailing club. As a result, the St Helena Yacht Club was formed and steps were taken during 1999 by the St Helena Government to make the old Bond Store on The Wharf available to SHYC as a club house. My wife and I were honoured to become the first honorary life members of the SHYC on our departure from the Island in June 1999. The Race has flourished since with the help of the False Bay Yacht Club.

Race History

Below: 1996-2010   2012   2014   2016   2018   2020 / 2021   2022   2024

The first race attracted 15 entries and the Santa Cruz 50 footer Nina won the cup, arriving first at 11am on Tuesday 17 th  December, 9 days after departing Cape Town . Although no Saints took part in the initial race, 10 St Helenians {2} represented the Island two years later in the 1998 race on yachts Group 4 and Sprint . The race was won by Merlin , with Nina 2 nd  and Group 4 3 rd .

The 2000 race saw 16 entries, of which 12 finished, with the winner being the 37-foot yacht Gladeye arriving after 10 days, 9 hours, 41 minutes and 58 seconds of sailing from Cape Town , with Beluga taking Line Honours. 2002 not only saw the fourth Governor’s Cup Race but was also the year that St Helena celebrated its 500 th  anniversary of discovery . The race, which ended the year long Quincentenary celebrations, was organised together with the False Bay Yacht Club in Simons Town. 13 Saints were able to participate. Beluga took Line Honours, arriving on 9 th  December after 8 days, 22 hours and 2 minutes at sea, and the Cup went to Our Dianne , arriving on the 10 th .

Ten Saints took part in the 2004 race. Line Honours were taken by Bossanova , arriving on 18 th  December. The winning yacht was Our Dianne , followed by The Southern Isles with Monarch Assurance’s Beluga in third place. In 2006 thirteen yachts set sail into an unusual westerly wind, but otherwise near perfect weather conditions in Table Bay, Cape Town for the 1675 nautical mile race. The 34-footer Our Dianne triumphantly crossed the line on 7 th  January 2007 to claim line honours; Diddakoi arrived on 8 th  January and was declared winner of The Governor’s Cup. To celebrate the tenth anniversary of the race The Independent published ‘ A Decade of Sailing Ⓘ ’.

Poor winds hampered the 2008/9 race, which set off from False Bay Yacht Club, Cape Town on 29 th  December 2008. After 6 days at sea, the fleet was spread out some 600 odd miles from Cape Town , averaging roughly 100 nautical miles a day (in the 2006 race at the same stage the fleet had covered more than 1,800Km ). Phoenix won Line Honours, arriving on 11 th  January after 12 days, 19 hours and 48 minutes at sea. The Cruising Class was won by Blazin’ , arriving on 13 th  January, and Patches won the Racing Class and The Governor’s Cup, arriving on 12 th  January. In 2010 line honours went to Banjo , arriving on 11 th  December, and Our Dianne won The Governor’s Cup, arriving later the same day.

In 2012 the race set off from South Africa on 22 nd  December. Over 90 people participated, from a single handed racer; a Scout Association youth crew; family cruising boats; a folding trimaran and of course the fast downwind racing yachts, all vying for line honours. The Principal Race Officer and also an experienced competitor in the race said:

While the race could be compared to the Newport to Bermuda downwind dash, or the Sydney to Hobart race, it is truly unique in that it is an event with ‘three holidays in one’. There’s the downwind dash from Simon’s Town to St Helena with all the excitement of surfing down the huge Atlantic rollers , with loved ones sailing on the RMS and being on the Island to welcome you at the finish line with champagne and cold beers! Then there’s the holiday in paradise on St Helena with the welcome and inclusion in Islander life; as well as beautiful hikes, great pub s with great and varied atmosphere and parties galore. And finally there’s the five star return voyage on the RMS St Helena (1990-2018) . That’s five nights of fun and laughter, the best of food and days filled with traditional mail ship deck games.

The trimaran Banjo with its skipper and owner Kevin Webb and crew Sarel Van der Merwe and Brad Stemmett, arrived on 1 st  January 2013 and claimed The Bellows Line Honours Tray. The St Helena team finished fourth in the yacht Patches . Thinus Groenewald’s Reaction with a 0.925 handicap won the Racing Monohull, and thus the 2012 Governor’s Cup, in just under 12 days arriving on 3 rd  January 2013, beating its highly contested rival, Indaba . Rob Newman’s catamaran Compromise , from False Bay Yacht Club, was the winner of the Rally Multihull fleet. Although Banjo beat Compromise to the finish line, Compromise secured their win, with a handicap of 1.050. JML Rotary Scout gained the title of Rally Monohull with a finish time of 19 days and 29 minutes.

The race start was on 27 th  December 2014, from the False Bay Yacht Club in Simon’s Town, South Africa . Seventeen yachts set off for the race and heavy sea swells and winds gusting up to 40kts helped them to push forward. The 31ft trimaran Banjo - first across the finish line in 2012 - led the fleet as the yachts left Simon’s Town and headed for Cape Point.

Banjo arrived first at St Helena, at 1:53am on 6 th  January, and thus took line honours and also broke the yacht’s previous race record by sailing in after 9 days, 13 hours and 36 seconds at sea.

Banjo was skippered in 2014 by Kevin Webb, with crew Sarel van der Merwe and Brad Stemmett. Sadly Customs and Immigration would not come out for a 2am arrival so the crew had to wait offshore until nearly 10am to come ashore. Tired but jubilant, they are shown, with partners, below:

Next in was Avanti , two days later at 2:04am on 8 th  January 2015, followed by Black Cat at just before 9am the same day.

Avanti was re-classified by the race organisers into the Cruising Class, and hence Black Cat was declared winner of the 2014 Governor’s Cup.

The next yacht in was Strumpet , which arrived early on 9 th  January, flying the Jolly Roger and loudly playing the theme from Pirates of the Caribbean on the boat’s music system. Apparently their only problem during the voyage was running out of Coke for their Rum and Cokes.

The final race positions were as shown (below) . Note that some yachts were re-classified by the organisers during the race; they are shown below in their final classifications.

Cruising Class

1:  Avanti , Klaus Wiswedel

2:  Tallulah , John Seager

3:  Strumpet , Justin Spreckley

4:  Canace , Kevin Ward

5:  Vulcan 44 , Steve Wilson

6:  Cool Runnings , Carel Jacobs

n/a:  Solas , Paul Rae (Retired)

n/a:  Windjammer , Ashley Kerr (Retired)

n/a:  Aurora , Andre Greeff (Retired)

Racing Class

1:  Black Cat , Dave Immelman

2:  Iechyd Da , Stephan Hunt

3:  Spirit of Africa , Vic Smit

n/a:  DoDo , Roux Gerber (Out of time)

Multihull Class

1:  Banjo , Kevin Webb

2:  Revelation 1 , Wiets Wilkin

3:  ZigZag , Brian Alcock

4:  Entheos , Bertie Chapman

In 2014 the St Helena Yacht Club ran a competition in the local schools to design a sail for the St Helena Yacht. Unfortunately the St Helena Yacht could not take part, but the designs for the winner, first and second runners-up are presented below:

There was no race in 2016. Uncertainties over the Airport opening caused a distraction and no race was organised.

The 2018 race was run entirely by the Royal Cape Yacht Club and for the first time was branded as The Cape to St Helena Race (though the trophy name remained the same). Entries officially closed on 30 th  November but late entries were, apparently, accepted as late as 17 th  December. The final list included 15 yachts: Asante , Avanti , Avocet , Banjo , Caribbean Soul , Carpe Diem , Compromise , Felix , Hirondelle , Indaba , JML Rotary Scout , Naledi , Rocket , Ronin & Yolo . For the first time a yacht from St Helena took part: Carpe Diem owned and sailed by James Herne & family aided by South African Rob Winter.

15 yachts departed Cape Town on 26 th  December. Two retired the same day: Avanti with autopilot problems and Hirondelle . JML Rotary Scout retired on 30 th , putting into Lüderitz with forestay damage. The remaining 12 completed the race.

First to cross the finish line was Banjo at around 9:30pm on 3 rd  January - much faster than expected (first arrivals had been predicted for 5 th ). Rocket was next at just after 6am on the 4 th  and Naledi at around 10:30pm the same day. The rest of the yachts, including Carpe Diem , arrived between the 5 th  and the 7 th .

After applying the necessary handicap, The Governor’s Cup was awarded to Indaba , a 34-foot Van der Stadt, which was also the winner in the Monohull Class. Line honours went to Banjo , a Farrier F9AX trimaran, and the winner in the Multihull Class was Compromise , a du Toit yacht. (Full results table, right.)

More details here and a full report in The Sentinel , Thursday 10 th  January 2019.

2020 / 2021

A 2020 race was announced in October 2019 but was abandoned due to Covid‑19 . A 2021 race was intended to replace it but was itself cancelled, again due to Covid‑19 .

With the announced abolition of the island’s Covid‑19 quarantine restrictions from 8 th  August 2022 a race was quickly arranged, starting from Cape Town on 29 th  December 2022.

The results were:

Two yachts started the race but did not finish: Assagai and Suidoos II. For more details including entrant details see rcyc.co.za/‌capetosthelena or email [email protected] .

The 2024 race was announced in 2023, with entries to be received by 1 st  November 2024 and a starting date of 26 th  December 2024 (14:00h South African time, 12:00h St Helena time ). Race details remain as recent years and, as in previous years, the race is entirely run by the Royal Cape Yacht Club in association with St Helena Tourism and St Helena Yacht Club . More at rcyc.co.za/‌capetosthelena . Enquiries to [email protected] .

Some of the trophies

In December 2018, just before the start of the 2018 race, The Independent ran a story claiming most of the trophies had gone missing since the 2014 race. Fortunately the following week they were able to report that the trophies were not, and never had been missing - they were safely stored in the Museum of St Helena .

How do the yachts get home…?

That used to be easy. From 1996 to 2014, after the race those that chose not to sail back (against the Trade Wind ) used to get a lift on the RMS St Helena (1990-2018) , as the picture shows (right) . But with the commencement of the scheduled commercial air service and the decommissioning of the RMS this is no longer possible… Possibly a yacht could be carried as Sea Freight ; otherwise the only option is to sail back.

On this subject, the following letter appeared in The Independent on 7 th  November 2014:

Sir, It has recently been suggested to me that the 2014 edition of The Governor’s Cup yacht race might be the last time that the race is run from Cape Town to St Helena. The reason adduced being that the RMS St Helena (1990-2018) will be withdrawn from service in 2015, and thus unavailable to carry yachts back to South Africa as deck cargo. I understand the concern, as the Race has tended to have been sold to South African sailors as a return package. But, as the entry records will show, not all of the fleet sought to return via the RMS, or indeed at all. For the 1996 and 1998 races there were a handful of cruisers going on North after the race, principally to the Caribbean, (which was why we framed the Race as a competition open to all classes of boat and crews). Others sailed back. Indeed, I recall one married couple crew from the Royal Cape Yacht Club whom we met at sea a long way West of Cape Town on our way back from Tristan da Cunha in 1997. They had left the Island soon after the Christmas and Yacht Race festivities to go back to their business in South Africa. In the meantime, the RMS St Helena (1990-2018) had ‘steamed’ to Cape Town following an Ascension Island shuttle; discharged passengers and some yachts and cargo over the weekend in Cape Town ; loaded for Tristan; sailed to Edinburgh-of-the-Seven-Seas for a three day/two nights stopover; and was a couple of days out of Cape Town on the return voyage when we received a radio message from the yacht to ask whether it was possible for the RMS St Helena (1990-2018) to drop off some water, fuel and cigarettes for the crew who had run out of all three - and it was their wedding anniversary! We made a night-time rendezvous, illuminating the yacht’s sail in the darkness of the night with the ship’s spotlight, transferred the needed supplies and some goodies, chatted over the radio and were promised a beer at the RCYC for our efforts when they got back there. Well, almost a week later, and after the normal 2/3 day turnaround at Cape Town , they had not arrived. The RMS St Helena (1990-2018) was leaving Duncan Dock for the homeward leg to Jamestown when we learnt that they were off Camps Bay. We diverted there to wish them well and a safe night ashore, but left without the promised beer! So, although it is undoubtedly difficult sailing against the wind and current it is possible, by taking a wide western loop, to return under sail. However, I cannot imagine that this would prove to be a popular option as it would eat into vacation time. Personally, I think that it would be valuable to spend some time and effort in the UK and elsewhere to attract, particularly Northern Hemisphere sailors to take part; and to ‘sell’ the idea to the world-wide cruising community potentially sailing North to the Caribbean that it would be a fun thing to do. I had some limited success doing this in the UK in the summers of 1996 and 1997-98, but I recognise that it would certainly need professional help outside St Helena to keep the Race alive. But, nothing should be written off as pointless effort in the drive to grow St Helena’s tourism and image in the world. The Governor’s Cup Race was, I believe, the seismic change in Saint Helenian attitudes which led to tourism being a fully acceptable industry in which the Island could engage. And, as the joint founder of the Race with Dave Roberts, I hope the enthusiasm engendered by the event over the subsequent years doesn’t dissipate after the 2014 Race. That would be a shame, but maybe that’s progress? Whatever happens to the Race, it has to be remembered that The Governor’s Cup itself belongs to St Helena having originally been commissioned and purchased by myself from the Discretionary Fund in 1996. Yours faithfully, David Smallman Governor, St Helena 1995 - 1999

Yachting and St Helena

Other yacht races also call here. For more about these and the benefits of St Helena as a yachting venue go to our page Yachting .

Article: Curry sauce and choice language: island crew’s race adventure

By Simon Pipe, 11 th  January 2013 {4}

St Helena’s crew in the 2012 Governor’s Cup yacht race sailed home from South Africa on a diet of curry sauce - and blocked the lavatory twice. Skipper Chris ‘Hedge’ Shuter reports:

The race was a great adventure for the crew, who worked very hard together to overcome the challenges of a long ocean voyage. The crew did amazingly well, considering that they were novices and we had only two training sessions in False Bay before the race. We crossed the start line with them not knowing how to fly a spinnaker and I taught them to sail en route. Even so, we managed to finish fourth overall and retain the Muira Trophy for yacht Patches . There were many amusing incidents, including the crew blocking the heads [toilet] twice, much to their chagrin, and causing the skipper to use some choice language as he dismantled it again. For some reason the RMS St Helena (1990-2018) food suppliers delivered us 19 cucumbers, 3kg of garlic, 30 tins of curry sauce, no meat and no water! This lead to an interesting diet for two weeks at sea. The welcome home was a very humbling experience. Several boats came out to greet us and there was a great reception crowd waiting at the steps. The skipper and crew were overwhelmed and are very grateful to those who made the effort. The crew took great pride in representing the island and did their very best to be good ambassadors for St Helena.

Credits: {a}   The Independent {b}   Voltairine de Cleyre {c}   Royal Cape Yacht Club {d}  Social Media User {5} {e}  Copyright © South Atlantic Media Services Ltd. (SAMS) , used with permission.

Footnotes: {1}  Writing in 2014. {2}  Andrew Greentree, Tara George, James Herne, Donny O’Bey, Jonathan Herne, Delicia Thomas, Dorian Caswell, Denny Leo, Andrew Moyce and Troy Bennett. {3}  The first time a female-skippered yacht has won The Governor’s Cup. {4}  @@RepDis@@ {5}  Posted on Social Media and used with the poster’s permission but they wish to remain anonymous.

Ⓘ governorscup.htm 9 ProcessForFTP I WOMBAT2018 FB 1.10.064 37 24.09 1422 56918 sainthelenaisland.info Settembre

Cape to St Helena Yacht Race

St Helena Island may be one of the most remote inhabited islands on the planet, but for the crews who have just tackled the 2022 Cape to St Helena yacht race, it’s been a thrilling trip of a lifetime.

Situated in the South Atlantic, north west of South Africa, it’s taken just over two weeks for some of the crew to sail the 1,700 nautical miles (1,950 km) from Cape Town to St Helena.

Previously called the Governor’s Cup, the biennial Cape to St Helena yacht race was first conceived by Captain David Roberts, former Captain of the RMS St Helena, after watching the Cape to Rio fleet sail through Duncan Dock to Table Bay from the Royal Cape Yacht Club in 1996.

The first Cape to St Helena race in 1996 attracted 13 entries, with the second edition in 1998 securing a record 22 entries. For the 2022 race, the first since the Covid pandemic, 12 competitors took up the challenge to race their yachts across the South Atlantic to St Helena.

It was Commodore Neil Gregory who fired the cannon at 2pm on 29 December to signal the start of the Cape to St Helena 2022 race. Heading into steady 25 knot winds and some lumpy swells at first, the crews endured extreme weather patterns, strong winds, rain squalls and heavy seas over the ensuing days on the ocean.

Daily reports to the Royal Cape Yacht Club from the fleet included entertaining descriptions of flying fish on deck, Christmas trees of oilies around the mast, and snack-bartering to sit night watch.

The first yachts were spotted arriving at St Helena on 6 January. Once again, it was Kevin Webb’s Banjo, winner of the 2018 Cape to St Helena race, who took line honours after a nine-day dash with the winds.

In an exciting dash to the finish, Di Hutton-Squire’s Tintin nabbed second place from Dale Kushner on Kia Paarl Fomo.

The leading three yachts were followed by Rocket and Compromise, who finished with just five minutes between them, proving the race is never over until you cross the finish line.

Naledi, the team with the youngest crew, was the sixth yacht over the line. Anna Scheder Bieschin celebrated her 12th birthday on-board on 2 January.

Fortunately for the crews, it was then time to relax and enjoy the many attractions to be found on one of the UK’s oldest overseas territories.

Best known as the place where Napoleon Bonaparte as well as King Dinuzulu and some 6,000 Boer Prisoners of War were exiled, there’s plenty of fascinating things to do and see on the island.

“Be it hiking past soaring crags, exploring the seas, or uncovering its multi-layered history, St Helena is guaranteed to make even the most hardened traveller weak at the knees,” says Matt Joshua, Head of Tourism for St Helena.

For travellers keen on exploring an unusual bucket-list destination far from the crowds, Airlink offers weekly flight service from Johannesburg (JNB) to St Helena Island (HLE). Flight tickets are available on flyairlink.com and through all IATA-registered travel agents.

For more information about St Helena Island, visit  www.sthelenatourism.com

by St Helena

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Napoleon’s Exile on St Helena

Imagine Napoleon’s dismay when he realised he was not being banished to America as he anticipated, but to the remote island of St Helena in the mid-Atlantic instead! This is the story of the French emperor’s final exile…

Lara Jacobs

Imagine Napoleon’s dismay when he realised he was not being banished to America as he anticipated, but to the remote island of St Helena in the mid-Atlantic instead. Located 1,200 miles from the nearest landmass off the west coast of Africa, St Helena was the ideal choice for Napeoleon’s exile… after all, the last thing the British wanted was a repeat of Elba!

Napoleon arrived in St Helena on 15th October 1815, after ten weeks at sea on board the HMS Northumberland.

William Balcombe, employee of the East India Company and one-time family friend of the French emperor, put Napoleon up at Briars Pavilion when he first arrived on the island. However a few months later in December 1815, the emperor was moved to nearby Longwood House, a property said to have been particularly cold, uninviting and infested with rats.

During Napoleon’s time on the island, Sir Hudson Lowe was appointed Governor of St Helena. Lowe’s main duty was to ensure that he didn’t escape but also to provide supplies for Napoleon and his entourage. While they only met six times, their relationship is well documented as being tense and acrimonious. Their main point of contention was that Lowe refused to address Napoleon as Emperor of the French. However five years later Napoleon finally won Lowe over, and persuaded him to build a new Longwood House. However he died just before it was completed, after six years in exile on the island. After World War II the new Longwood House was demolished to make room for a dairy.

Today Longwood House is considered to be the most poignant and atmospheric of all the Napoleonic Museums, as it is preserved with its original furniture from 1821, complemented by over 900 artifacts. Thanks to the island’s Honorary French Consul, Michel Dancoisne-Martineau, with the support of the Fondation Napoleon and over 2000 donators, visitors to Longwood House can now also view an exact replica of the room where Napoleon died on 5th May 1821.

The rebuild of the General’s Quarters at Longwood House was overseen by Michel and completed in June 2014. The exterior of the General’s Quarters is based on Doctor Ibbetson’s 1821 watercolour painting and appears as seen at the time of Napoleon’s death. By contrast the interior is modern and serves as a multi functional event space. A fireplace built in Regency style is a key feature within the room. The new General’s Quarters also includes two accommodation apartments. Between 1985 and 2010, Michel was the only Frenchman on the island. However there are now two more Frenchmen – one currently working on the airport project and the other teaching French!

Napoleon was initially buried at the SaneValley, his second choice of burial site, until the French were given permission to have his corpse returned to France, nineteen years after his death. Napoleon’s remains are now buried in Les Invalides in Paris, however visitors to St Helena can visit his empty tomb, which is enclosed with a fence and surrounded by an abundance of flowers and pines.

The circumstances surrounding Napoleon’s death remain controversial. There is still speculation as to whether he was poisoned or simply died of boredom. There is also evidence from an autopsy to suggest that he had ulcers, which affected his liver and intestines.

Napoleon’s presence can still be felt today across the island. The Governor of St Helena’s official residence at Plantation House still retains one of Napoleon’s chandeliers, whilst one of the island’s small hotels, Farm Lodge, claims to have a chaise longue from Longwood House.

Today, all of St Helena’s Napoleonic attractions, including Longwood House, Briars Pavilion and Napoleon’s Tomb, are owned by the French Government.

Travellers looking to follow in Napoleon’s footsteps can board the Royal Mail ship St Helena from Cape Town (10 days at sea and four nights on St Helena). Tours of Napoleon’s residence, Longwood House and Briar’s Pavillion can be arranged through the St Helena Tourism Office once on island. St Helena’s first ever airport was completed in 2016.

You can find out more about St Helena and Napoleon’s Exile:

• St Helena Tourism
• Read Brian Unwin’s book, Terrible Exile, The Last Days of Napoleon on St Helena

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