Visit of the Cruise Ship Silver Wind, March 2026
Report from Kelly Green
Today on Tristan da Cunha it is moderate gale force winds, a four metre swell, and that fine scaly rain that just gets into everything. One of those proper wild days where you can really feel the power of the South Atlantic.
But yesterday, on Sunday 29th March 2026, we got lucky. We had a break in the weather at just the right time to welcome the MV Silver Wind from Silversea Expeditions, and everyone made the absolute most of it knowing the conditions were about to turn.
The MV Silver Wind off Edinburgh of the Seven Seas, and tranferring passengers ashore. Photo: Philip Kendall
She arrived at Nightingale in the morning, where our Conservation team had already headed over at first light to meet her. That early start meant guests were able to land with our island guides as well as enjoy zodiac cruising around the island.
Passengers arriving by zodiac in the harbour. Photo: Philp Kendall
Nightingale really put on a show. Guests were surrounded by wildlife, with seabirds everywhere you looked, albatross, petrels, and of course the northern rockhopper penguins with their bright yellow crests. The noise, the movement, the sheer number of birds, it is something you just cannot explain unless you have seen it.
Possibly the largest passenger group photo we have ever taken. Photo: Kelly Green
By midday, the ship made her way over to Tristan, where a full programme of tours was quickly underway. These included the volcano and Thatched House Museum, long and short walks to the Potato Patches, and guided walks around the settlement.
Walkers gathered by the Remotest Island signs. Photo: Philip Kendall
We even had 30 guests out playing golf on the world's most remote golf course. With only around four hours available it was a bit of a quick turnaround, but the atmosphere was brilliant.
Visitors in the Post Office and Tourism Centre. Photo: Philip Kendall
All venues were open, the pub, the Island Store, Rockhopper Gift Shop, and of course the Post Office and Tourism Centre, and it was smiles all round from start to finish.
The day ended with a beautiful sunset before Silver Wind departed just ahead of the worsening weather.
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| Tristan taxis ferried visitors around the settlement. Photo: Philip Kendall |
The beautiful sunset at the end of the day. Photo: Kelly Green |
We always wish ships could stay longer, but on Tristan you know how lucky you are just to land at all.
Silver Wind's lights blazing at dusk as the final zodiacs arrive back at the ship. Photo: Philip Kendall
A big well done to the ship, the crew, our Conservation team, and all island staff and guides involved. A real team effort to make the most of a short but very special visit.