St Helena

Step Onboard a Living Legend

Originally built to serve one of the most remote communities on Earth, the (formally RMS) St Helena is a storied vessel with a legacy of resilience, reliability, and global connection. British built and flagged as well as extensively refurbished in 2022 with a 8 million pound renovation. St Helena joins the Terra Nova Expeditions fleet as a uniquely capable and character-rich small expedition ship.. and truly one of a kind.

At Terra Nova, we believe Expedition cruising is for everyone, the St Helena offers some of the best value voyages to Antarctica in the market - your voyage directly contributes to science via our science program... With the added bonus of a full suite of adventure options aboard.

Deckplan and Technical Specifications

    • 105 metres / 344 ft

    • 19.2 metres / 63 ft

    • 5.5 metres / 18.04 ft

    • 6,767 gt

    • 5 Passenger Decks

    • The ship has retractable stabilisers.

    • 14 kn / 26 km/h / 16 mph

    • Crew and Staff: 81

    • Passenger: Although the ship is designed to accommodate up to 150 passengers, we deliberately limit our voyages to an average of just 98 guests for a more intimate, sustainable experience.

    • 12 RIBs

    • 110 V, 60 Hz

    • 1989 - United Kingdom

    • 2022 – Comprehensive interior upgrade, engine rebuild and modern navigation systems

    • Comfort Class Expedition Vessel

    • Ice Class 1C (Polar Code)

    • United Kingdom

Cheetah, Kruger National Park, South Africa

Highlights

    • Spacious, newly updated cabins, with ocean views. Modern and well appointed she offers best in class accomodation. All cabins and suites have ensuite bathrooms, and some interconnecting cabins are available in the Twin Odyssey class. Triple and quadruple cabins are perfect for solo travelers or are ideal for families or groups seeking shared accommodations during polar expeditions. Single cabins are also available with no supplement.

    • Her open decks, generous observation lounges, and expedition-ready features provide an ideal platform for wildlife encounters, landings, and immersive exploration.

      • Inviting social spaces and large panoramic observation areas.

      • A relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with an expert team onboard

      • Full suite of adventure options

      • Two Jacuzzis, gym and spa.

      • Full science lab set up, and active science taking place with our resident expert science team.

    • With capacity for 150 but carrying just 98 guests, St Helena blends traditional seafaring heritage with a contemporary expedition experience. Her recent refit in 2022 has introduced refined touches throughout, from modern cabin furnishings to enhanced public spaces, creating an atmosphere of modern comfort and style. Built in the UK the St Helena is a rugged, versatile expedition platform and truly unique in the Antarctic world.

      Perfectly suited for adventurous voyages, her ice-strengthened hull, deep draft, and powerful engines make her ideal for navigating the remote and rugged coastlines of Antarctica, the South Atlantic, and beyond. Her open decks, generous observation lounges, and expedition-ready features provide an ideal platform for wildlife encounters, landings, and immersive exploration.

      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.

  • St Helena

    • Her open decks, generous observation lounges, and expedition-ready features provide an ideal platform for wildlife encounters, landings, and immersive exploration.

    • Inviting social spaces and panoramic observation areas.

    • Two Jacuzzis, sauna and ample deck space.

    • Full science lab set up, and active science taking place with our resident expert science team.

    • Guests can look forward to expert-led excursions, including zodiac cruises, guided landings, sailing, camping, and kayaking — bringing you up close to awe-inspiring landscapes and extraordinary wildlife. 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. 

Cabins aboard St Helena