St. Helena

St. Helena - A Living Legend

Built: 1989, United Kingdom
Refurbished: 2022 (£8 million renovation)
Registry: United Kingdom
Ice Class: 1C (Polar Code)
Length: 105 metres (344 ft)
Width: 19.2 metres (63 ft)
Gross Tonnage: 6,767 GT
Speed: 14 knots
Crew: 81
Guests: 98 (though designed for 150)
Cabins: 51
Zodiacs: 12

About the Vessel

Originally built to serve one of the most remote communities on Earth, the St. Helena is a storied vessel with a legacy of resilience, reliability, and global connection. British built and flagged, this former Royal Mail Ship joins the Terra Nova Expeditions fleet as a uniquely capable and character-rich small expedition ship.

Recent Renovation

The 2022 comprehensive £8 million renovation included:

• Complete interior upgrade
• Engine rebuild
• Modern navigation systems
• Refined cabin furnishings
• Enhanced public spaces
• Modern comfort and style throughout

Expedition Features

Ice-Strengthened Design

• Ice Class 1C hull perfect for polar navigation
• Deep draft and powerful engines
• Ideal for remote and rugged coastlines
• Built for Antarctic and South Atlantic conditions

Guest Experience

• Capacity for 150 but limited to 98 for intimacy
• Spacious, newly updated ocean-view cabins
• All cabins with ensuite bathrooms
• Interconnecting cabins available
• Single, twin, triple, and quad options
• No single supplement on select cabins

Amenities & Activities

Public Spaces

• Large panoramic observation lounges
• Open deck areas for wildlife viewing
• Inviting social spaces
• Modern bar and lounge areas
• Dining room with ocean views

Wellness & Recreation

• Two Jacuzzis
• Gym facilities
• Spa services
• Comfortable library

Science & Education

• Full science laboratory setup
• Active science program
• Resident expert science team
• Educational presentations

Adventure Options

• 12 Zodiac boats for landings
• Kayaking equipment
• Camping gear
• Sailing opportunities
• Expert-led excursions
• Wildlife encounters

The St. Helena Experience

With a soul steeped in maritime history and a future set for discovery, St. Helena offers a rare opportunity to explore the world's most extraordinary destinations in style, safety, and comfort. Her open decks, generous observation lounges, and expedition-ready features provide an ideal platform for wildlife encounters, landings, and immersive exploration.

The vessel blends traditional seafaring heritage with contemporary expedition experience, creating an atmosphere of modern comfort while maintaining the character of one of the world's last mail ships, now reimagined for modern expeditionary travel.

Expert Team

With a dedicated team of knowledgeable expedition leaders, naturalists, and seasoned crew members, the St. Helena promises an unforgettable exploration experience that blends adventure with superior hospitality. Every voyage directly contributes to science through the onboard science program, making each journey both an adventure and a contribution to polar research.