St. Helena

98
Guests
51
Cabins
12
Zodiacs
81
Crew

STEP ABOARD A LIVING LEGEND.

St Helena was built for the ends of the Earth, long before Antarctica was on the itinerary.

Constructed in Britain to serve the remote island community of St Helena in the South Atlantic, she spent decades carrying mail, cargo, and passengers to one of the most isolated places on the planet. That history of purpose-built endurance is baked into her hull.

As the cornerstone of the Terra Nova fleet, St Helena carries 98 guests on a ship built for 150. The extra space is not incidental. It shapes everything about the experience, from the quietness of the observation lounges to the pace of zodiac operations ashore. She is also one of the few expedition vessels with an active science programme running throughout every voyage, giving passengers the rare opportunity to contribute to real Antarctic research.

British built, British flagged, and unlike anything else operating in these waters.

HIGHLIGHTS

Cabins & suites
All 51 cabins have ocean views and en-suite bathrooms, updated in the 2022 refit. Single cabins are available with no supplement. Interconnecting twins suit families and groups, and triple and quad configurations are available for those travelling together.
Onboard facilities
Panoramic observation lounges, two Jacuzzis, a gym and spa, and generous open decks for wildlife spotting. A full science lab is active throughout every voyage, with a resident expert science team conducting real research — and you can join them.
The vessel
Capacity for 150.
We carry 98.
The difference is yours.
Ice-strengthened hull, deep draft, and powerful engines built for the Southern Ocean. British built and flagged — refitted in 2022 with £8 million invested in cabins, public spaces, and expedition infrastructure.
British built & flagged £8m 2022 refit Ice-strengthened hull
Every activity included
Zodiac cruises, guided landings, kayaking, camping, and snowshoeing — all included in your fare, led by expedition leaders and naturalists who know this continent well. No upsells. No optional extras. Everything is yours.
Pricing
Cabin prices depend on your expedition.
View our rates page for full pricing and availability across all departures.
View rates →

One of the world’s last Mail Ships, reimagined for modern expeditionary travel.

“The RMS St Helena is a true gem for those who love real adventure on a budget with a touch of nostalgia. She’s a ship with stories in her soul – and a cool, modern edge. A spectacular renovation has brought her to life with modern and stylish cabins and inviting spaces throughout.”

- Andrea Bagi, General Manager - Brand and Client Experience

Terra Nova Expeditions

Your Expedition Starts Here

Every voyage below departs aboard St Helena. Pick the one that matches how far you want to go.

Best for: More time on the ice
Duration
11 days
Group
Max 98
Ship
St Helena
From
$8,790
Best for: Sailing + Cruise Hybrid
Duration
21 days
Yacht
Max 6
Ships
2 vessels
From
$21,080
Best for: Those who want to go furthest south
Duration
12 days
Group
Max 98
Ship
St Helena
From
$10,980
Best for: First-time expeditioners
Duration
10 days
Group
Max 98
Ship
St Helena
From
$7,990

DECKPLAN &
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

  • Polar Code Category C Passenger Vessel

  • Bahamas

Terra Nova — Plan My Expedition
N S E W

Still deciding?
That's what we're here for.

Our expert team is here to help you choose the perfect expedition. No pressure, no obligation. Just an honest conversation with people who know Antarctica.

  1. 01 Tell us what you're looking for Dates, duration, who you're travelling with, and what excites you most about Antarctica.
  2. 02 We match you to the right expedition Not the most expensive one, but the right one. Our specialists have sailed these waters.
  3. 03 We answer what's holding you back Drake Passage, fitness, costs, cancellation - nothing is off the table.
  4. 04 You decide on your own timeline No pressure, no follow-up if you're not ready. This is a conversation, not a sales call.
Your Expedition Specialists Available now
Ann Souter
Ann Souter
Passenger Experience & Reservations Manager
North America & Europe
+1 302 217 6942
Lauren McDougall
Lauren McDougall
Passenger Experience & Reservations Coordinator
Australia
+61 870 830 135
Antarctica Penguins TerraNova Expeditions

Your Adventure Starts Here!

Sign up with your email to receive exclusive updates, expedition highlights, and the latest news from Antarctica.

By subscribing, you agree to receive emails from us. You can unsubscribe at any time.
Read our
Privacy Policy.