Making the most of Jamestown
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Jamestown is a tender port. Walk past old warehouses and apparent barracks, then enter town through what was once a narrow fortified gate to see an uphill street lined by the town’s buildings.
Saint Helena is among the world’s most isolated locations, over 1200 miles (2000km) from the nearest major landmass. The island is best known as the place where Britain imprisoned Napoleon from 1815-1821 after his escape from earlier exile on Mediterranean Elba. He died in 1821 at Longwood, his farmhouse home near Jamestown.
“Jacob’s Ladder” links Jamestown with the residential area at the mountain top to its right. The local landmark refers to Jacob’s Old Testament dream of a ladder extending from earth to heaven. Royal Engineers built its 669 steps as “quick” access to a cannon battery. It is not for the faint of heart!
Getting around
Because of the hilly landscape, a ship-organised tour is advisable.
Money
Shopping is paid for in Saint Helena Pounds, held at parity with pound sterling. British currency is interchangeable on the island; some shops may also take US Dollars and Euro.
Staying connected
English is the official language.
Jamestown has a small number of public WiFi hotspots, operated by Cable & Wireless.