Visit by the Bark Europa, April 2025
Report and photos from Kelly Green with additional photos from the Bark Europa logbook
The Bark Europa approached Tristan da Cunha on the 2nd April 2025 after 12 days sailing to Tristan from South Georgia. She passed between Nightingale and Inaccessible islands before furling her sails and motoring to anchor overnight off Edinburgh of the Seven Seas at about 10:30pm.
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| View from the Bark Europa as she arrives at Tristan | Furling sails as the ship approaches Tristan |
Kelly writes:
We woke on the 3rd April 2025 to a soft mist blanketing the island, the kind that makes everything feel hushed and magical. The air was warm and calm, a gentle beginning to what would be a busy and joyful day. From my house, perched high in the village, I get a sweeping view across the ocean, and just before 6:00am., I peeked out of my bedroom window. There, through the milky grey haze, I spotted the faint, ghostly outline of a three-masted barque. It was like something out of a dream, or a storybook.
The Bark Europa at anchor off the harbour
The Bark Europa, with its tall masts and proud silhouette, belonged to a bygone era, yet here it was, right off our shores. This particular barque has sailed many seas, an elegant reminder of maritime traditions that go back centuries. Originally used for cargo and long voyages, these vessels are now often seen on expeditions and cultural voyages, a living tribute to seafaring heritage. This one had visited our island before, and each time it feels like greeting an old friend.
As always, the very first thing I did was put the kettle on... Some traditions are non-negotiable. With tea brewing, I switched on the radio to hear the familiar voice of our cheerful island operator already deep in early morning communications, chatting with the ship's captain who, like the vessel itself, was a welcome regular.
Not long after, my three-year-old son stirred. As I opened the curtains, his eyes lit up, and he leapt up on the bed, bouncing with joy. "Mummy, it's a pirate ship!" he squealed, singing and laughing in pure delight.
Soon it was time to head down to the harbour to welcome the first zodiac ashore. Onboard was the captain, holding all the passports, and the expedition leader, heading up to the immigration office to start the day's official proceedings.
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| Visitors arriving by zodiac at the quay... | ...and walking up the harbour road to the village |
From there, two small zodiacs began ferrying the 50 passengers ashore. By this point, the heavens had truly opened-it was pouring! But not even the rain could dampen the excitement. Smiles were everywhere, laughter echoed through the village, and the spirit of the day shone brighter than the sun.
The first tour set off with our lively guides Andre and Jerry, leading a group on the dramatic volcano walk, finishing off at the Thatched House Museum - their usual banter keeping everyone entertained. For those who stayed in the village, the morning offered its own treasures: the Post Office and Tourism Centre was open (and home to Café da Cunha, famed for its delicious lobster tarts and local refreshments). Also in the Centre we hold the island's museum and archives, with the Traditional Longboat Museum right next door.
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| Visitors outside the Post Office and Tourism Centre and in the café | |
Elsewhere, the Rockhopper Gift Shop bustled with visitors, the Island Store was stocked and lively, the Albatross Bar offered a cosy escape from the rain, and the Prince Philip Hall hosted a wonderful craft fair filled with island-made goodies.
Two visitors playing golf on the world's remotest golf course
We even had a few adventurous souls request a dip in the world's remotest swimming pool - and we were happy to oblige!
A rare sight - A visitor diving into the swimming pool
Meanwhile, out on the water, a thrilling deep-sea fishing excursion was underway. Martin Green took his private boat out with crewman Eugene Repetto, and beyond catching fish, they enjoyed incredible views of the island and some fantastic wildlife photography opportunities.
Visitors go fishing for crayfish in Martin Green's boat Ocean Venture
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| Fishing visitors with Eugene Repetto and their catch of fresh Tristan Rock Lobster | |
That afternoon brought more laughs and stories during a relaxed harbour fishing session with Shane - cold beers in hand and plenty of friendly competition.
Visitors fishing off the end of the breakwater with Shane Green
The final tour of the day was a scenic walk out to the Potato Patches, led by our warm-hearted guide Christopher Swain. By then, the rain had cleared, the mountains stood proud against the now blue sky, and golden sunlight bathed the island in a glow that felt like a reward for the morning's drizzle.
Visitors gathering for guided walk to the Potato Patches at the Remotest Island signs
As the guests prepared to depart, there was a sense of reluctance in the air-many wished they could stay longer. The captain, with a familiar smile, promised to return in two years' time.
And as always, it was a joy and an honour to welcome visitors to our little island. Rain or shine, it's the warmth of the people and the beauty of the place that leaves the biggest impression.