News of cruises, ships and yachts visiting Tristan da Cunha.

Visit of the ketch SV Nicolisa, January 2025

Report from Kelly Green with photos from Tristan Glass and Philip Kendall

Over the past few weeks, the yacht Nicolisa had been lingering near the Tristan da Cunha archipelago. A single man was on board, the yacht's owner and skipper, was navigating without an AIS system and relying only on a handheld radio. This made tracking his movements and intentions to land quite challenging. At one point, we thought he had departed as the weather turned rough.

The ketch SV Nicolisa

The ketch SV Nicolisa. Photo: Tristan Glass

However, on Wednesday 15th January 2025, while I was enjoying a calm, hot, but misty day off with my children at Runaway Beach, the Nicolisa reappeared through the fog. With no engine and barely any wind, the yacht crept along at a snail's pace. Fortunately, island boats - the fisheries vessel Wave Dancer and the conservation boat Arctic Tern - were out working that day. The Wave Dancer, assisted by the Arctic Tern, towed the yacht to anchor near the settlement.

The yacht in the fog.

This picture shows the foggy conditions when the Nicolisa was being towed to the anchorage. Photo: Tristan Glass

As the skipper attempted to drop anchor, it slipped from his hands and sank to the ocean floor. Thankfully, the kind crew of the Wave Dancer had a spare anchor, which they generously provided. To make his evening more comfortable, the conservation team also gifted him some fresh lobster tails.

The Nicolisa being towed by Wave Dancer with Arctic Tern in attendance

The view from shore of Nicolisa being towed by Wave Dancer with Arctic Tern in attendance. Photo: Philip Kendall

The following day, the skipper radioed to say he planned to come ashore. After the necessary protocols were completed, I went down to the harbour to greet him. To my amazement, he was rowing to shore despite calm seas and winds gusting at 30 knots! As he arrived, the heavens opened, and it poured with rain. Fouché, a staff member from Ovenstone's factory, and I helped him pull his small boat onto the harbour.

The skipper was cheerful despite the weather. As we walked up to finalize his immigration paperwork, he shared that he had been at sea for 74 days and hadn't set foot on land since leaving Milford Haven, Wales. He passed through the Canary Islands, but did not land, and he hadn't been heard of since leaving Lanzarote in the Canary Islands on the 1st November 2024. His friends became so worried that they put out an International Marine Safety Alert for him on the 10th January.

Hearing about his voyage, I couldn't help but admire his bravery. After completing formalities, I took him to the shop, where he purchased fresh baked goods. Later, he made the most of the Starlink connection to contact family and friends.

As the wind began to pick up, I suggested he return to his yacht. Before he left, I packed him some fresh rolls, homegrown potatoes, and slices of gammon for supper.

Later, when we headed down to the harbour, it was clear that the swells had increased along with the wind. Fortunately, the Conservation team was in the harbour testing their new little RIB. I was relieved to see them, as I didn't think the skipper would have been able to row back to his yacht in those conditions. We filled his water cans, and the Conservation RIB kindly towed him safely back to his vessel.

Rowing out of the harbour back to the Nicolisa

The skipper rowing back out of the harbour to the Nicolisa. Photo: Kelly Green

On Saturday morning, while preparing for a family BBQ, I spotted him rowing ashore again - an incredible sight considering the distance he had to cover! Knowing he couldn't come ashore on Friday and shops would be closed over the weekend, he had radioed me his shopping list. I collected his supplies and helped him with some online forms. He spent the rest of the day connecting with family and friends. By 2:00pm, he was ready to set off again. I sent him off with a gift of freshly baked bread, beef, and a few other treats.

The following day, Sunday 19th January, he stayed aboard his yacht. After the departure of the MFV Edinburgh, he also sailed off, bound for Saldanha Bay. Before leaving, he promised to WhatsApp me upon his arrival, as I'd grown invested in his journey.

The skipper was a fascinating and kind individual, and we wish him all the best on his travels. We hope to welcome him back to Tristan da Cunha.

If you the skipper of the Nicolisa, we'd welcome your feedback using our Visitors' Feedback Form.

Visit of the SH Diana, November 2024

Report from Kelly Green with additional photos from Randall Repetto and Philip Kendall

On the 18th November 2024, Tristan da Cunha eagerly anticipated the arrival of the first cruise ship of the 2024/2025 season. Despite the excitement, the ship's late departure from Cape Town due to adverse weather delayed its arrival at the island. Nevertheless, the island's dedicated cruise ship team, including immigration, port control, the radio operator and team, harbourmaster, and tourism staff, worked tirelessly alongside the ship's crew to ensure a successful landing.

The SH Diana's scout boat entering the harbour

The SH Diana's scout boat entering the harbour shortly after her arrival.

At approximately 16:15, the ship came into view, drawing close to the island to expedite disembarkation. The scout boat was first to arrive, picking up the immigration team along with Administrator Philip and his wife, Louise. The immigration team swiftly cleared the ship for operations, while the Administrator and Louise joined the vessel for a plaque exchange ceremony. During this exchange, the island presented a commemorative plaque, while the ship gifted a model boat as a token of appreciation.

Admin Philip Kendall exchanging plaques with the ship's captain The model of the SH Diana given to the island
Admin Philip Kendall gifts an island plaque to the ship's captain in exchange for a model of the SH Diana.

Once operations commenced, the ship's team worked efficiently, using both harbor steps to disembark passengers via zodiacs in rapid succession. Onshore, guides welcomed groups of 20-30 visitors, offering a 20-minute village walk followed by 20 minutes of free time.

A zodiac brings the first passengers into the harbour

A zodiac brings the first passengers into the harbour

Visitors ending a village tour at the forever popular 'Remotest Island' sign

Above & below: Visitors call at the ever-popular 'Remotest Island' sign during their village tours.

Visitors gather at the forever popular 'Remotest Island' sign for a village tour

Despite the limited timeframe, visitors managed to enjoy a variety of activities, including: shopping for souvenirs at the Rockhopper Gift Shop and Island Store, sending postcards or enjoying lobster sandwiches at the Post Office and Tourism Centre, and spotting wildlife. Some visitors even saw a Rockhopper penguin and chick.

Although the Thatched House and Longboat Museum were open, time constraints meant that most visitors were unable to explore them fully.

Visitors buying stamps and souvenirs at the Post Office and Tourism Centre

Visitors buying stamps and souvenirs at the Post Office and Tourism Centre.

Visitors writing postcards home in the Post Office and Tourism Centre

Visitors writing postcards home in the Post Office and Tourism Centre.

Sipping a beer at the Albatross Bar may well have been the most popular undertaking. Randall, the pub manager, was able to get a few pictures before "it just got so busy".

Visitors drinking in the Albatross Bar

Visitors drinking in the Albatross Bar

A highlight of the visit was the newly unveiled beach sign at the harbour, which quickly became a favorite spot for photos alongside the iconic welcome sign. Additionally, the Conservation Department introduced a stunning new viewing point at the top of the harbour road, complete with interpretive boards, which visitors enjoyed for the first time.

Harbour sign Conservation board
The new sign in the harbour and Conservation's information boards will evidently be popular with tourists.

With only 40 minutes ashore, the visit was brief but deeply appreciated by all. As the last zodiac departed with the expedition team at sunset around 20:00, the smiles and joy on visitors' faces underscored the significance of their short but memorable time on the island.

Philip Kendall bids farewell to departing passengers at the harbour Zodiac collecting departing passengers at Calshot Harbour
Philip Kendall says au revoir to departing passengers at the harbour before they return to the ship in their zodiac.

Andy, the island's friendly radio operator, bid the ship a heartfelt farewell, wishing them a safe onward journey to South Georgia. Though the visit was fleeting, it was a momentous and rewarding occasion for both Tristan da Cunha and its visitors, marking a vibrant start to the cruise season.

SH Diana departing Tristan

SH Diana departing Tristan in the evening with all lights blazing.

If you were on the SH Diana, we'd appreciate your feedback using our Visitors' Feedback Form.

Visit of the Norwegian Yacht Fryd

Report from Kelly Green, with additional photos from Jarl Spandow and Philip Kendall

On Wednesday, 6th November 2024, the Norwegian yacht Fryd arrived near the island of Tristan da Cunha, during an adventurous passage from Salvador, Brazil, to Cape Town, South Africa. After 16 days at sea, the crew of the Fryd caught sight of the island on the horizon, describing the first glimpse of Tristan as "a massive pyramid in the middle of the ocean" - a fitting image for one of the most isolated islands in the world.

Tristan: 'A massive pyramid in the middle of the ocean'

Tristan: "A massive pyramid in the middle of the ocean". Photo: Jarl Spandow

By 10:00 a.m., Fryd - the first yacht of the new season - was safely anchored off Tristan's coast. The crew secured all the necessary permissions to land and were eager to explore, planning to make their way ashore in a small inflatable boat. However, a mechanical issue with their craft delayed their plans, and they decided to wait until the following day, when weather conditions were also expected to improve. The island's friendly police service arranged to pick them up in one of Tristan's own small boats, ensuring their visit could go smoothly despite the hiccup.

Fryd at anchor off Calshot harbour

Fryd at anchor off Calshot harbour

On Thursday, November 7th, the crew of Fryd came ashore early, met by the island's welcoming team, including Leon and Connie, a local father and son duo. Coincidentally, the two visitors were also a father and son team (Jarl & Max Spandow), a great shared connection. The crew enjoyed a guided introduction from the Head of Tourism, starting with essential immigration formalities, and then headed off to refill their fuel supplies. They had been uncertain if refuelling on Tristan would be possible, and the success of this arrangement enabled them to make the stop as planned. Otherwise they would have had to have taken a more southerly course.

Following their clearances and refuelling, the crew took the opportunity to explore the island further. They visited the Tristan Post Office & Tourism Centre and Radio Shack, where they were greeted by Andy, the island's friendly Radio Operator, with whom they had communicated prior to their visit and during their approach. He would also monitor their progress as they continued on to Cape Town.

They then headed over to the Island Store to re-stock on some essentials.

They took the opportunity to send postcards home, collect some of Tristan's renowned stamps, purchase some island woollen socks and other souvenirs. Afterwards, they took a glimpse into the longboat museum and then sat in the Centre's garden for some moments.

Two fathers with their sons in the police RIB - yachtsmen Jarl & Max Spandow, and islanders Conrad & Leon Glass
Two fathers with their sons in the police RIB - yachtsmen Jarl & Max Spandow, and islanders Conrad & Leon Glass

The crew then enjoyed the island's famously picturesque scenery, marvelling at the towering cliffs and lush greenery that make Tristan so unique. They were also able to meet lots of the island's cows with their new born calves.

For lunch, they indulged in Tristan's renowned rock lobster, freshly prepared and served at Café da Cunha. The Administrator Philip, made a special visit to meet the crew, sharing stories and insights about the island's distinctive way of life. As a warm farewell, the Administrator even gave the visitors some lobster tails to savour on their onward journey.

Administrator Philip Kendall with Max & Jarl Spandow in the Residency garden

Administrator Philip Kendall with Max & Jarl Spandow in the Residency garden

By 1:00 pm, the crew of Fryd returned to their vessel, fully provisioned and carrying the fond memories of their brief yet meaningful visit to this rare island destination. From their conversations with locals to enjoying the pristine natural beauty, their stopover on Tristan da Cunha was a unique experience that few travellers get to enjoy.

Fryd greeted off the settlement by a rainbow

A rainbow kept Fryd company at anchor off the settlement. Photo: Philip Kendall

As the Fryd set sail for Cape Town, it carried the spirit of Tristan's community and the unforgettable warmth of its people. The islanders were delighted to welcome such a friendly pair of visitors, and look forward hopefully to hosting them again in the future. Safe travels to the Fryd!

Page Updated: Tristan da Cunha Cruise Ships

Details of cruise ships that regularly or occasionally visit Tristan da Cunha.
6-Nov-2024
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Page Updated: Tristan da Cunha Visitors' Feedback

Feedback from visitors to Tristan da Cunha.
25-Oct-2024
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2024 Agulhas Visit Report

The annual visit by the SA Agulhas II has many hightlights and major social events for visitors and the island community.
9-Oct-2024
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Page Updated: Tristan da Cunha Accommodation

There are no hotels on Tristan, but there are several guest houses, and you could also arrange to stay with an island family. For a unique experience, stay overnight in the Thatched House Musuem.
15-May-2024
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Visit of the yacht Vinson of Antarctica

The expedition yacht Vinson of Antarctica called at Tristan on the 22nd April 2024.
22-Apr-2024
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Visit of the MV Hondius, April 2024

The cruise ship MV Hondius visited Tristan on the 9th to 11th April 2024.
15-Apr-2024
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