Iconic St Helena Reborn for Antarctic Service with TNE

From Royal Mail Ship to Polar Expeditions – A New Chapter in Sustainable Maritime Exploration

[Sydney, Australia, 23.07.2025.] – Terra Nova Expeditions, a new operator in the small-ship expedition cruise sector, is proud to announce that it will operate the St Helena under a long-term charter, commencing Antarctic voyages in the 2026/27 season.

Originally built in the UK in 1989 to serve the remote South Atlantic island of St Helena, the St Helena is one of the last British-built Royal Mail Ships still in service. Following her retirement from government duty in 2018, the vessel was extensively refitted by Extreme E to serve as a mobile base for its pioneering electric off-road racing series. This transformation introduced several significant sustainability enhancements, including improved fuel efficiency systems, hybrid-ready infrastructure, and onboard emissions monitoring.

Now, under Terra Nova’s charter, the St Helena will sail once more – this time through Antarctic waters, carrying fewer than 100 passengers per voyage. Her deep-sea hull, long-range endurance, and rugged design make her exceptionally well-suited to extended polar operations, including voyages to remote sub-Antarctic destinations such as South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. “We’re honoured to be the custodians of this remarkable vessel for her next chapter,” said Greg Carter, Founder of Terra Nova Expeditions. “The St Helena is a ship of genuine substance and character. Her blend of heritage, capability, and sustainability is perfectly aligned with our mission to tread lightly while delivering meaningful polar experiences.”

While guest accommodation and public areas are all upgraded, St Helena will retain her authentic working-ship character. She will also be fitted with advanced motion-reduction and anti-seasickness technologies, including world-first VR-based systems proven to reduce motion sickness within minutes – a significant comfort advantage for those crossing the Drake Passage. The vessel’s Antarctic programme will centre on responsible, low-impact travel aboard smaller ships, in accordance with IAATO guidelines and Terra Nova’s commitment to environmental stewardship. All voyages will be carbon-offset, and every departure will include integrated citizen science projects.

Bookings Now Open

The first departures onboard St Helena begin in December 2026, with limited availability due to the ship’s intimate capacity. Adventurers can now secure their place on what promises to be the Antarctic journey of a lifetime. Visit www.terranova-expeditions.com for more information.