Scuba Diving in Saint Helena
Diving the Lonely Sentinel of the South Atlantic
Scuba diving in Saint Helena is a journey to one of the most remote and pristine corners of the Atlantic Ocean. This volcanic outpost offers incredibly clear waters with visibility often exceeding 30 meters, where divers can encounter a unique mix of tropical and temperate marine life. The island's signature experience is swimming with whale sharks, which visit in significant numbers during the summer months. Because of its extreme isolation, Saint Helena boasts a high percentage of endemic species that are found nowhere else on Earth. The underwater topography is characterized by dramatic volcanic formations, including intricate arches, caves, and tunnels that provide shelter for a wealth of life. Historic shipwrecks, such as the Papanui, lie in shallow waters, offering easy access to maritime history. The island's status as a remote peak rising from the deep ocean means that pelagic encounters are common, with various shark species, tuna, and large jacks often seen patrolling the reefs. For those seeking a diving destination that combines isolation, endemic biodiversity, and world-class whale shark encounters, Saint Helena is an unparalleled choice.
Diving Highlights
- ✓Reliable whale shark encounters in crystal-clear waters (January–April).
- ✓Exceptional biodiversity with many endemic species found only around the island.
- ✓Dramatic volcanic topography featuring arches, caves, and deep walls.
- ✓Accessible historic shipwrecks like the 'Papanui' and the 'Darkdale'.
- ✓Pristine, uncrowded dive sites in a truly remote Atlantic setting.
Experience Mix
Signature Marine Life
Whale Shark
Large aggregations of these gentle giants visit the island during the summer months.
Saint Helena Butterflyfish
One of the island's many endemic species, often seen in large, colorful schools.
Chilean Devil Ray
Large rays frequently seen gliding along the steep volcanic drop-offs.
Green Turtle
Frequently encountered on the reefs and around the historic wrecks.
Seasonal Travel Guide
| Month | Weather & Conditions | Crowds |
|---|---|---|
| january | Summer, warm and sunny, average 24°C. Whale sharks arrive. | High for the island (peak season). |
| february | Peak summer, 25°C. Excellent diving conditions. | High. |
| march | Warm and calm, 25°C. Whale shark sightings remain high. | Moderate. |
| april | Pleasant and sunny, 24°C. Good for diving and hiking. | Moderate. |
| may | Cooler but dry, 22°C. Visibility remains good. | Low. |
| june | Winter begins, breezy and cooler, 20°C. | Low. |
| july | Winter conditions, 19°C. Can be rainy in the interior. | Low. |
| august | Cool and windy, 18°C. Atlantic swells can be high. | Low. |
| september | Spring begins, 19°C. Hiking is excellent as flowers bloom. | Low. |
| october | Warmer and sunny, 20°C. Visibility begins to improve. | Low. |
| november | Pleasant and dry, 21°C. Island becomes greener. | Moderate. |
| december | Summer starts, 23°C. Festive season with many returning Saints. | High. |
Practical Information
Arrival & Entry
Getting Around
Transport on the island is primarily by car. Taxis are available in Jamestown, and there is a limited public bus service. Car rental is highly recommended for exploring the interior.
Safety & Culture
Common Scams
- Virtually non-existent; Saint Helena is one of the safest places in the world.
Cultural Etiquette
- Saints are very friendly—it is customary to wave or greet people you pass.
- The pace of life is slow; be patient and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
Health & Safety Advice
Essential tips for a safe trip
Travel Essentials
English is the official language. The local 'Saint' dialect is a unique and melodic version of English, reflecting the island's multi-ethnic history.
Tap water is generally safe to drink, though many visitors prefer filtered or bottled water.
Saint Helena Pound (SHP), which is at parity with the British Pound (GBP). GBP is also widely accepted.
All visitors require a Saint Helena Entry Permit, which can be applied for online (eVisa) before travel. Proof of medical insurance including aeromedical evacuation is mandatory.
Explore Saint Helena
Stay Costs
Prices are approximate per night in USD.
Deep Dive into Saint Helena
Everything you need to know about history, culture, and nature.
Historical Context
Saint Helena's history is defined by its extreme isolation. Discovered by the Portuguese in 1502, it remained a secret for decades, serving as a vital watering station for ships returning from the East Indies. The British East India Company eventually took control in 1657, fortifying the island as a strategic Atlantic outpost. Its most famous resident was Napoleon Bonaparte, who was exiled here after his defeat at Waterloo in 1815 until his death in 1821. The island also played a significant role during the abolition of the slave trade, serving as a base for the West Africa Squadron and a refuge for 'Liberated Africans.' Today, the island maintains a deep connection to its maritime heritage, with numerous wrecks and fortifications dotting the coastline, reflecting its long history as a lonely sentinel in the vast South Atlantic Ocean.
Geography & Nature
Saint Helena is a small, rugged volcanic island located roughly 1,200 miles from the coast of Africa and 1,800 miles from South America. Its geography is characterized by dramatic contrasts; the coastline consists of sheer, towering cliffs that rise abruptly from the deep ocean, while the interior is surprisingly lush and green, featuring rolling hills and ancient cloud forests. Diana's Peak, the island's highest point at 823 meters, offers breathtaking views of the entire archipelago. The island's volcanic origins have created a unique underwater landscape of arches, caves, and tunnels. Because it is an isolated peak rising from the abyssal plain, the surrounding waters drop off rapidly to extreme depths, attracting large pelagic species while the shallow reefs provide shelter for a high percentage of endemic marine life found nowhere else on Earth.
Climate & Weather
The climate of Saint Helena is surprisingly mild and temperate for its tropical latitude, thanks to the cooling influence of the South East Trade Winds and the Benguela Current. The island experiences two main seasons: the summer, from December to May, and the winter, from June to November. Summer temperatures typically range between 20°C and 27°C, with relatively calm seas and excellent underwater visibility that can exceed 30 meters. This is also the peak season for whale shark sightings. The winter months are slightly cooler, with temperatures between 17°C and 22°C, and can bring more wind and rain, particularly to the higher elevations. The coastal areas, including the capital Jamestown, remain significantly warmer and drier than the lush interior. For divers, the period from January to April offers the most reliable conditions and the warmest water temperatures, usually around 24°C.
People & Culture
The people of Saint Helena, known as 'Saints,' are a warm and resilient community with a diverse heritage. Their ancestry is a unique blend of European settlers (mostly British), African slaves, and Chinese and Indian indentured laborers, all of whom were brought to the island during the East India Company era. This cultural melting pot has created a distinctive identity and a strong sense of community. Despite the island's small population of approximately 4,500, Saints are known for their exceptional hospitality and friendliness toward visitors. Life on the island moves at a relaxed pace, influenced by the isolation and the rugged environment. The community is deeply connected to the land and the sea, with many families maintaining traditional practices such as fishing and small-scale farming. Social life often centers around community gatherings, music, and the island's unique traditions, reflecting a culture that has thrived in solitude for centuries.
Local Languages
English is the official language of Saint Helena and is spoken by the entire population. However, visitors will quickly notice the unique 'Saint' dialect, which is a fascinating variation of English with its own distinct rhythm, vocabulary, and pronunciation. This local creole reflects the island's multi-ethnic history, incorporating influences from early 17th-century English, as well as elements from the various cultures that have settled on the island over the centuries. While the dialect can sometimes be challenging for outsiders to follow during rapid conversation, Saints are adept at switching to standard English when interacting with visitors. The local accent is often described as melodic and soft, contributing to the island's charm and providing a linguistic link to its storied past as a global maritime crossroads.
Gastronomy
The cuisine of Saint Helena is a flavorful reflection of its diverse cultural roots, combining British traditions with spicy influences from Africa, India, and Southeast Asia. One of the most iconic dishes is 'Plo,' a hearty one-pot meal made with rice, meat (usually bacon or chicken), and vegetables, seasoned with a distinct local curry powder. Fish is a staple of the Saint Helenian diet, with tuna, wahoo, and the local 'stump' (a type of spiny lobster) featuring prominently in many meals. Fishcakes, made with fresh fish and mashed potatoes seasoned with herbs and chili, are a ubiquitous local favorite. Another unique specialty is Saint Helena coffee, which is considered one of the rarest and most expensive coffees in the world, grown from green tipped Bourbon Arabica seeds first brought to the island in 1733. The island's isolation means that much of the produce is locally grown, leading to a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients that give the food an authentic, home-cooked feel.
Recommended Bases
Jamestown
The Vibe: Historic capital with colonial charm, close to the harbor.
Longwood
The Vibe: Cooler, lush uplands with scenic views and Napoleonic history.
Featured Liveaboards
There are currently no permanent liveaboards based in Saint Helena; diving is conducted via shore-based operators and day boats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:When is the best time to see whale sharks in Saint Helena?
The best time for whale shark sightings is during the summer months from January to April. During this period, large numbers of whale sharks congregate in the island's coastal waters.
Q:Is diving in Saint Helena suitable for beginners?
Yes, there are several shallow reefs and wrecks like the 'Papanui' that are well-suited for beginners. However, many of the island's best sites involve boat diving and can experience currents, so some experience is beneficial.
Q:How do I get to Saint Helena?
The most common way to reach Saint Helena is via a weekly flight from Johannesburg, South Africa. It is essential to book these flights and your Entry Permit well in advance.
Q:What is the visibility like underwater?
Saint Helena is famous for its exceptional visibility, which often exceeds 30 meters, especially during the summer months when the water is calmest. This clarity makes it a paradise for photographers and those looking to spot pelagic species from a distance.
Q:Are there hyperbaric facilities on the island?
Saint Helena does not have a dedicated hyperbaric chamber. This is why comprehensive medical insurance with aeromedical evacuation coverage is a mandatory requirement for all visitors.
Q:What kind of wetsuit do I need?
A 5mm full wetsuit is generally recommended year-round. In the summer, a 3mm might be sufficient for some, while in the winter, a 7mm or adding a vest might be necessary as temperatures drop.
Hotels & Resorts in Saint Helena
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