Be one of the first to dive the waters of St Helena Island, known as the ‘Galapagos of the Atlantic’. One of the most remote islands on earth, St Helena is also one of the most extraordinary, with much to offer the adventurous diver.
Until recently, the only way to reach St Helena was by Royal Mail ship, a journey taking an astonishing five days from Cape Town. Now, this tiny island can be reached by air, providing a unique opportunity to discover and dive a place that few have ever had the chance to visit.
Divers will enjoy a pristine underwater eco-system with over 750 marine species to discover, including several endemic species. The varied dive sites include wrecks, seamounts and caverns to explore, while these waters are also blessed with aggregations of whale sharks between December and March each year - a recent phenomenon that has attracted the attention of scientists the world over.
This morning, continue your journey to St Helena Island, almost 2,000 kilometres west of Africa in the southern Atlantic Ocean.
On arrival, transfer to your chosen accommodation for a seven night stay. St Helena’s main town, Jamestown, features a range of small self-catering accommodation options and characterful guesthouses as well as a luxury hotel from which to choose.
Your five day (10 dives) dive package begins today.
Discover the unique underwater world around the island with its 20+ colourfully named dive sites. Dive Billy Meyer’s Revenge for possible manta ray and mobula sightings, or swim through several archways onto Long Ledge, home to swirling schools of reef fish. There are eight wrecks to explore, with green turtles, hawksbill turtles and numerous species of dolphin found in these waters. Humpback whales are also seasonal visitors.
From December to March, large numbers of whale sharks aggregate around St Helena, a real draw for lovers of these gentle giants. Encounters are strictly on a snorkelling basis only.
After a magical week, depart by air back to Johannesburg, where you will spend one night before your journey back to the UK.
Please note: This is a remote destination, suitable for more experienced and adventurous travellers and divers.
This small, rugged sub-tropical island in the south Atlantic is blessed with fascinating history, a wealth of wildlife found nowhere else on earth, and fabulous marine life encounters. Diving is offered year round, with whale sharks making an appearance December to March. Find Out More about {acc:title}
Located in the heart of Jamestown, Mantis St Helena is a combination of restored historic buildings and a new contemporary building, within walking distance of the seafront and local attractions. Find Out More about Mantis St Helena
