Port information & tips for Jamestown
Jamestown is the fascinating capital of the remote volcanic island of St. Helena and a true hidden gem in the middle of the South Atlantic. The picturesque town is nestled in a deep valley and impresses with its well-preserved Georgian architecture and a unique atmosphere full of the spirit of discovery. Right at the harbor, impressive sights beckon, such as the monumental Jacob’s Ladder with its 699 steps, the historic Castle, and the venerable St James' Church. As cruise ships lie at anchor in protected James Bay, guests reach Jamestown Wharf safely by tender boat. This central landing point provides direct access to the charming city center, allowing all the cultural highlights and small alleys of the island's capital to be easily explored on foot.
Jamestown on St. Helena is an exceptionally remote cruise port, primarily serving as a tender port for transit stops on world cruises or expedition routes. There is no classic terminal infrastructure for embarkation; instead, passengers are brought to Jamestown Wharf by tender boat.
Airplane
Travel to St. Helena Airport (HLE) usually occurs via Johannesburg (JNB) in South Africa. No direct flights to St. Helena are available from Germany, Austria, or Switzerland, necessitating connecting flights. Airlink offers weekly return flights between Johannesburg and St. Helena, with additional flights during peak season. The flight time from Johannesburg is approximately six hours. The airport is located on the Prosperous Bay Plain, about 16 kilometers east of Jamestown.
Transfer to the tender pier in Jamestown
A newly built road leads directly from St. Helena Airport (HLE) to Jamestown. Taxis and a public bus service, which operates on flight days, are available for the transfer. It is strongly recommended to book taxis in advance, as availability is limited. Cruise ship tender boats dock directly at the Jamestown Wharf Landing Steps on the waterfront, the central access point to the capital.
Planning notes & pre-cruise stay
Due to St. Helena's extremely remote location and limited flight connections – often only one or two flights per week – a pre-cruise stay of at least one night on the island is recommended if arriving by plane. This provides an important buffer for potential flight delays or cancellations and allows for a relaxed start. St. Helena is not a homeport for cruises but is visited as a transit stop, meaning passengers are usually already on board their ship.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will generally receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times may change at short notice.
Jamestown on St. Helena is an exceptionally remote cruise port, primarily serving as a tender port for transit stops on world cruises or expedition routes. There is no classic terminal infrastructure for embarkation; instead, passengers are brought to Jamestown Wharf by tender boat.
Airplane
Travel to St. Helena Airport (HLE) usually occurs via Johannesburg (JNB) in South Africa. No direct flights to St. Helena are available from Germany, Austria, or Switzerland, necessitating connecting flights. Airlink offers weekly return flights between Johannesburg and St. Helena, with additional flights during peak season. The flight time from Johannesburg is approximately six hours. The airport is located on the Prosperous Bay Plain, about 16 kilometers east of Jamestown.
Transfer to the tender pier in Jamestown
A newly built road leads directly from St. Helena Airport (HLE) to Jamestown. Taxis and a public bus service, which operates on flight days, are available for the transfer. It is strongly recommended to book taxis in advance, as availability is limited. Cruise ship tender boats dock directly at the Jamestown Wharf Landing Steps on the waterfront, the central access point to the capital.
Planning notes & pre-cruise stay
Due to St. Helena's extremely remote location and limited flight connections – often only one or two flights per week – a pre-cruise stay of at least one night on the island is recommended if arriving by plane. This provides an important buffer for potential flight delays or cancellations and allows for a relaxed start. St. Helena is not a homeport for cruises but is visited as a transit stop, meaning passengers are usually already on board their ship.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will generally receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times may change at short notice.
After landing with the tender boats at the historic quay wall The Wharf, you are already in the heart of St. Helena and can explore the island's capital directly.
On foot
The entire city center of Jamestown can be perfectly discovered on foot, as Main Street and historic sights directly border the port. A short walk will take you to the town's charming shops, cafes, and the Castle in less than five minutes.
Taxi
Official taxis are usually available directly in the landing area or at the central stand near Main Street. These offer a comfortable option for individual island tours; furthermore, you can reach more remote highlights such as Longwood House or Plantation House comfortably and safely thanks to the local drivers.
Local buses
The island has a reliable system of public buses that connect Jamestown with the various districts and depart regularly from Grand Parade square. These trips simultaneously provide an authentic insight into the daily life of the islanders and offer impressive views of the coastal landscape thanks to the elevated route.
To ideally plan your stay on the history-steeped island of St. Helena, a combination of charming Jamestown directly at the harbor and the fascinating historical sites in the green hinterland is highly recommended.
Jamestown & Jacob’s Ladder
The historic center of Jamestown enchants visitors with its colorful Georgian facades and the iconic Jacob’s Ladder, which offers a spectacular panoramic view over the sea directly from the harbor.
Longwood House
The historic Longwood House served as Napoleon Bonaparte's last refuge and today invites you on a fascinating journey into the past within its magnificent rooms and well-tended gardens.
Plantation House
The stately Plantation House impresses with its elegant architecture and is also home to the legendary giant tortoise Jonathan, making a visit an unforgettable experience thanks to its idyllic location.
Jacob’s Ladder and the Castle Gardens
The impressive Jacob’s Ladder is located right in the center of Jamestown and is easily accessible within a few minutes' walk from the pier. This historic landmark offers a fantastic panoramic view over the deep blue sea and the charming capital, and can be ideally combined with a visit to the nearby Castle Gardens. The well-maintained gardens offer an oasis of peace with shaded spots and blooming plants, while surrounding cafes like "The Coffee Shop" serve local delicacies in a relaxed atmosphere. Ideally, start your excursion in the morning to explore the stairs in mild temperatures and then use the rest of the day for a leisurely stroll through the historic streets.
Returning to the port in Jamestown is extremely straightforward thanks to the compact city structure and the warm hospitality of the residents. Since ships anchor off the island, final boarding for all guests takes place via the central landing steps at the Wharf.
Taxis and Local Drivers
Unoccupied taxis are available at the central square called The Stand at the lower end of Main Street, as well as near the Castle. Additionally, you can easily request a vehicle at local hotels such as the Mantis St Helena or the Consulate Hotel for the short drive back to the Sea Gate and thus comfortably reach your starting point.
On Foot Through the City
The way back to the landing steps is easy to find, as the main street of Jamestown leads directly toward the prominent historic town gate. From central sights such as Jacob’s Ladder or the Museum of Saint Helena, you can walk directly to the port area in a few minutes and enjoy the safe atmosphere of the town.
Tender Boats from the Wharf
The actual transfer back to the ship starts at the Wharf, the paved landing stage immediately behind the town gate. Tender boats depart from here at regular intervals, and the friendly port staff will assist you with boarding to ensure you arrive back on board punctually and safely.
