Saint Helena

Large aggregations of these gentle giants visit the island during the summer months.

Whale Shark

One of the island's many endemic species, often seen in large, colorful schools.

Saint Helena Butterflyfish

Large rays frequently seen gliding along the steep volcanic drop-offs.

Chilean Devil Ray

Frequently encountered on the reefs and around the historic wrecks.

Green Turtle

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.

There are currently no permanent liveaboards based in Saint Helena; diving is conducted via shore-based operators and day boats.

Mantis St Helena

Consulate Hotel

Harkate Guest House

Ascension Island is a remote volcanic British Overseas Territory in the equatorial South Atlantic, offering extraordinarily pristine diving in one of the most r...

Ascension Island

Saint Helena Island is the main diving destination of this remote British Overseas Territory, offering nineteen world-class dive sites ranging from dramatic vol...

Saint Helena Island

Tristan da Cunha is the most remote inhabited archipelago on Earth, located in the South Atlantic Ocean approximately 2,400 kilometers from the nearest mainland...

Tristan da Cunha

Atlantic

Banks Valley

Barn Ledge

Bedgelert

Boatswainbird Island

Catherine Point

Comfortless Cove

Devil's Playground

Fawkes's Ledge

Flagstaff Bay

Georgetown Harbour Wrecks

Grunge Patch

James Bay

Lemon Valley

Long Ledge

Nightingale Island Expedition

Old Woman's Pinnacle

Papanui Pinnacle

RFA Darkdale

Rupert's Bay

Sandy Bay

South West Bay

SS Papanui

The Steps

Thompson's Valley

Torm Ledge

Witte Leeuw

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.

Liveaboard Diving in Saint Helena

Experience Overview

Featured Operators

Remote Reach

Booking Advice

Where to Stay in Saint Helena