Saint Helena is a British Overseas Territory and one of the last relics of the colonies in the South Atlantic Ocean. It is one of the most isolated places in the world, located more than 1200 miles from the nearest landmass, Africa. It is of volcanic origin, it's surface is rugged and mountainous, reaching an altitude of 2700 feet in the High Hills of the southwest. The climate is moderate with a mean annual temperature of just over 70 degrees. The entire island is 47 square miles with a population of roughly 6000 people (according to our Program, 3000 according to our taxi driver!). The inhabitants refer to themselves as Saints. It was the place of exile for Napoleon (1815-1821), who died there in 1821.
We had heard that ships are frequently unable to stop at this port because of rough seas. We had pretty smooth sailing across the Atlantic, so figured it would be easy to tender in. There were large rolling waves, which didn't look bad, but when a small boat is trying to get passengers on and off, it was actually quite rough. After trying about 6 or 7 times to moor the tender, we were successfully offloaded onto the island. We headed down the pier and thru the gate. Our first stop was the museum to look at T shirts and find out about Jacobs Ladder. The ladder was built in colonial times to help bring supplies from the port up to the fort. There were 699 big steps going almost straight up. Fortunately there were railings on each side so we could use our arms to pull us up along with our legs. It was a LONG climb. We were passed by a few of the crew and a few fellow passengers, but made it up OK. Once up, there was nothing to do but go back down again. LOL Going down was much easier, but my legs were shaking by the time we reached the bottom. We purchased a certificate that says we climbed Jacobs Ladder then headed out to find a taxi.
Our driver asked for $20 per person to take us around the island. He ended up being with us for about 3 hours, so it was a good deal! Jamestown, and the port, are in a steep valley. We headed up a road on one side of the valley, to Longwood, the residence where Napoleon was kept in exile. It was beautiful! Not a bad place to be while in exile. The residence was full of original antiques and prints. There were also a number of copies of things Napoleon had written while there. The gardens were also beautiful. The home sat on top of the mountain with a beautiful view of the sea.
We then drove to the other side of the island to see the volcanic peaks. It was stark contrast to the interior of the island which was bright green with sometimes dense foliage. The peaks were bare rocks. From there we drove down to Plantation House, the home of the Governor. It is also the home of Jonathan, the 150 year old tortoise and his harem of 3 female tortoises as well as David. We walked onto the grounds to see them. Someone mentioned it might be possible to tour the house, so we asked a guard who told us we just have to ask. We arrived at the house and there on the front porch was the Governor's wife. She was willing to give a tour for $3 which went toward upkeep of the building. She told us her husband was appointed by the British Government for a period of 3 years. He had been Executive Director of the Falkland Islands previously, which they had really enjoyed, so jumped at the chance to be on St Helena for 3 years. She was delightful, telling us about life on the island, in the Plantation House which was full of original antiques, and of being the Governor's Wife. They do quite a lot of entertaining. Apparently military ships come into port frequently so they entertain the officers, as well as any officials who visit the island. It was an interesting visit.
We headed back to town, going down the opposite side of the valley to get there. We went to several shops in town, our major purchase being duct tape to tape our boxes. We went into the local church and the Castle Gardens. Everyone we ran into on the island was very friendly and happy to see us there. The Post Office had a stamp made with the date on it and MS Rotterdam, as well as an image of the ship. Nice. As we were leaving port, some young ladies were selling greeting cards with the Rotterdam in front of the island. Someone had to have gone out to sea to get that picture first thing this morning, then printed them for sale. There were vendors on the ship and in various places in port. They were just all set up for us. We are the first cruise ship to get into port this year. One with 3000 passengers tried about a month ago, but it was too rough for them. I'm really glad we were able to get in. It is a beautiful island and very unusual port of call.
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