Satellite view of Jamestown

Jamestown

Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha

Wander through Napoleon's remote South Atlantic exile home and encounter wildlife found nowhere else on Earth.

Currency Saint Helena Pound (SHP)
Language English
Time Zone GMT (UTC+0)
Best Time to Visit Nov–Mar
Typical Duration N/A
Price Range $N/A
Port Type Departure & Port of Call
Tender Port Yes

One of the world's most remote and isolated ports, offering access to the pristine and rarely-visited island of Saint Helena with its rich colonial history and dramatic volcanic landscapes.

Cruises that visit Jamestown

Build Your Day in Jamestown

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 11:00 PM
Usually about 15 hours ashore
Getting around:
Longwood House Essential viewing while on St. Helena. Museum · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 11 AM
Jacob's Ladder So glad we got to climb these iconic stairs. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 0k
Museum of Saint Helena Covers St. Helena’s history. Museum · ★ 4.4 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM
Anne's Place Dine-in·Takeout Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM
Mantis St Helena Looking forward to my next trip to St Helena at the Mantis. Hotel · ★ 4.2 · 0k
High Knoll Fort A long walk up from Jamestown, but amazing views. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 0k
Tasty Bites Dine-in·Takeout Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 6 PM
Heart Shaped Waterfall Nice walk from Jamestown, but no water this time of year! Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 0k
Farm Lodge Country House Hotel We also had dinner there and Maureen is really good at cooking! Hotel · ★ 4.4 · 0k
Richards Travel Lodge Probably the best food on the island comes out of their kitchen. Restaurant · ★ 4.9 · 0k
The Blue Lantern St Helena If you visit Saint Helena, make sure you book a dinner here. Hotel · ★ 4.4 · 0k
Bertrand's Cottage - Afropolitan Restaurant Dine-in·Takeout Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k Closed · Opens 7 PM Fri
The Steps Marina · ★ 4.2 · 0k
Rosie's Taste for Life Definitely the best restaurant on St Helena in my honest opinion. Restaurant · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 3 PM
Aaron's Adventure Tours , St Helena Visiting St Helena is definitely a bucket list trip. Tour operator · ★ 4.9 · 0k
The Swimming Pool Public swimming pool · ★ 4.3 · 0k Closed · Opens 8 AM
Orange Tree Oriental Restaurant We had such a lovely time at the Orange Tree when we were on Saint Helena. Asian · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 12 PM
The Standard Nice place to meet locals if you’re just visiting the island. Bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k
The Muleyard Great atmosphere Very safe It’s the place to go on St. Helena Bar · ★ 4.4 · 0k Temporarily closed
Castle Gardens Park · ★ 3.7 · 0k
Serena's Gift Shop Gift shop · ★ 4.3 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM
St Helena Yacht Club Yacht club · ★ 4.4 · 0k Closed · Opens 5 PM Wed
The Market Shopping mall · ★ 4.4 · 0k
St. James' Church Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 0k
Dive Saint Helena Overhangs, swim throughs, wrecks, schools, and so many endemic sightings. Diving center · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM
Get Carter's Pizza Takeout · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 5:30 PM
Atlantic Store Grocery store · ★ 4.8 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM
Benji's Store Convenience store · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM
The Victoria Has locally made goods. General store · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM
Andy's Shop Convenience store · ★ 5 · 0k
St Helena Distillery Distillery · ★ 5 · 0k
Sub-Tropic Adventures Diving center · ★ 5 · 0k
Crown Cafe Bar · ★ 5 · 0k
JJZ RETAIL Toy store · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 5 PM
The Star Grocery store · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM
Chad’s Shop Also selling tours, local sim cards etc. Grocery store · ★ 4 · 0k Closed · Opens 8 AM

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Jamestown

About Jamestown

Jamestown, Saint Helena stands as one of the world's most remote and exclusive cruise destinations, nestled in the South Atlantic Ocean. While this historic port currently operates without dedicated cruise line service, it remains a compelling destination for adventurous travelers seeking truly off-the-beaten-path experiences. The port functions primarily as a port of call rather than a traditional embarkation point, making it an exceptional stop for those fortunate enough to include it on their itinerary.

Visitors to Jamestown will discover a living piece of maritime history, where Napoleon once was held captive and where colonial architecture tells stories spanning centuries. The island's dramatic volcanic landscape, combined with its welcoming local community and unique cultural heritage, creates an unforgettable shore experience for the small number of cruise passengers who venture to this isolated destination. For travelers seeking something genuinely different from mainstream cruise ports, Jamestown offers an authentic glimpse into island life far removed from the ordinary cruise circuit.
Explore

Reasons to Visit

1

Napoleon's Exile Island History

Walk through Jamestown's colonial streets to explore where Napoleon Bonaparte was imprisoned from 1815-1821. Visit Longwood House, his former residence, and the Napoleon Museum to uncover fascinating details of this remote exile. The town's Georgian architecture and historical sites transport you directly into this pivotal moment of world history.

2

Fresh Local Fish & Cuisine

Savor authentic Saint Helenian dishes at waterfront restaurants featuring locally-caught fish, homemade breads, and traditional recipes passed down through generations. Try the famous fish cakes and locally-brewed beverages while enjoying views of the harbor. The small, intimate dining scene offers genuine hospitality and flavors you won't find anywhere else.

3

Dramatic Volcanic Landscape Hikes

Trek through Saint Helena's stunning volcanic terrain with panoramic views of rugged cliffs, lush valleys, and the Atlantic Ocean. The accessible walking trails from Jamestown showcase unique flora and geological formations shaped by volcanic activity. These dramatic landscapes provide unforgettable photo opportunities and a true sense of this isolated island's raw natural beauty.

4

Artisan Crafts & Local Markets

Browse Jamestown's charming shops and markets for handmade crafts, local artwork, and unique souvenirs created by island artisans. The colorful storefronts along Main Street offer everything from traditional needlework to locally-produced goods. Supporting these small businesses gives you authentic mementos while connecting with the island's creative community.

5

World's Most Remote Inhabited Island

Experience one of Earth's most isolated communities, accessible only by ship or helicopter, where fewer than 5,000 residents maintain a distinct culture and way of life. Interact with locals who share stories of island living, unique traditions, and the tight-knit community that thrives in this extraordinary location. This rare opportunity offers perspective on human resilience and remote island culture.

Cruise Lines at Jamestown

Cruises Departing From Jamestown

Cruises Visiting Jamestown

Ship Schedule at Jamestown

Jamestown Location

Other Cruise Ports in Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines sail from Jamestown, Saint Helena?

Currently, there are no cruise lines operating regular service from Jamestown. However, Jamestown serves as both an embarkation port and port of call for select expedition and specialty cruise operators. We recommend contacting cruise travel specialists or checking directly with expedition cruise lines that focus on remote South Atlantic destinations for current sailing options.

When is the best time to cruise from Jamestown?

Saint Helena has a subtropical climate with mild temperatures year-round. The austral summer months (November to March) offer warmer weather, while the winter months (May to September) are cooler but still pleasant. Since specific peak months for cruising from Jamestown are not currently established, we recommend consulting with expedition cruise operators about optimal sailing windows for this remote destination.

How much do cruises from Jamestown cost?

Pricing information for cruises from Jamestown is not currently available. Due to the remote nature of Saint Helena and limited cruise operations, fares vary significantly depending on the cruise line and itinerary. Contact specialty expedition cruise operators directly for current pricing and availability.

How do I get from Jamestown port to the city and local attractions?

Jamestown is the capital of Saint Helena and is located directly at the port. Most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of the harbor. Taxis are available for hire, and car rentals can be arranged for exploring the island's scenic landscapes, including Longwood House (Napoleon's former residence) and various hiking trails. The island is small and easily navigable.

What can I see and do in a day at Jamestown?

In a day at Jamestown, you can explore the historic town center, visit the Museum of Saint Helena, tour the 17th-century fortress ruins, and enjoy local restaurants and shops. For those with more time, consider visiting Longwood House (Napoleon's exile residence), taking scenic walks through the island's lush valleys, or visiting Plantation House to see the famous giant tortoises. The island offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and peaceful island culture.

Does Jamestown port use tenders or dock directly?

Jamestown has a small harbor with limited docking facilities. Depending on the vessel size and sea conditions, cruise ships may need to use tender boats to transport passengers to shore. It's advisable to check with your cruise operator about specific tender procedures and any weather-related delays that may occur due to the island's exposed Atlantic location.

What makes Jamestown a unique cruise destination?

Jamestown is one of the world's most remote inhabited islands, located in the South Atlantic Ocean. It offers a rare opportunity to visit a destination steeped in history, including connections to Napoleon Bonaparte, with pristine natural landscapes and authentic island culture largely untouched by mass tourism. The island's isolation and unique ecosystem make it an exceptional choice for adventurous travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.