Visit of the Yacht Nebula
Report by Kelly Green. Photos: Jenny & Greg Atherton
On Tuesday 24th February 2026, just after midday, the yacht Nebula dropped anchor off Tristan da Cunha after completing a 19-day passage from Rio de Janeiro. Having crossed the vast South Atlantic and endured multiple gales along the way, the two crew were understandably delighted to see the island rise on the horizon and even more so to finally step ashore.
The yacht Nebula at anchor off the settlement. Photo: Odile Cesari.
On board were Jenny and Greg Atherton, a couple whose journey carried deep personal meaning. They first met at university in South Africa before later settling in the United Kingdom, where they raised their children. For Greg especially, sailing back to South Africa via Tristan da Cunha had long been a cherished dream. Their crossing of the South Atlantic was not without its challenges, with several spells of heavy weather testing both crew and vessel. Fortunately, their arrival at Tristan could not have contrasted more, the sea lay like glass beneath brilliant sunshine, offering them the warmest of welcomes.
Jenny and Greg pictured at the harbour.
After anchoring safely, Jenny and Greg came ashore to complete immigration formalities and call at the Island Store for a few essentials. Following some much-needed rest back on board, they returned later to enjoy an evening at the Albatross Bar, where they were quickly made to feel at home. Travelling with their own small RIB made movements between yacht and harbour simple and convenient, allowing them to come and go with ease during their stay.
Greg and Jenny in Café da Cunha.
On Wednesday they joined the traditional lunch at Cafe da Cunha, sharing food and conversation with islanders and expatriate workers alike. It was a wonderful opportunity for stories to be exchanged and friendships formed, something that visitors to Tristan often remark upon as a highlight of their time here. On Thursday, they enjoyed a lunch in the Tourism Garden, overlooking the West Fence with sweeping views across the South Atlantic and Nebula resting peacefully at anchor to the east of the harbour. The menu featured Tristan's famous rock lobster served with a cheesy potato bake, accompanied by a chilled dry white wine. With the sun shining and the ocean calm, it was a scene that perfectly captured the magic of island life. What could be better.
Awaiting the Tristan lobster to arrive for lunch in the Post Office and Tourism Centre garden.
During their visit, Jenny and Greg explored walks on both the eastern and western sides of the settlement, taking in the dramatic scenery and visiting the historic Thatched House. They also found time to browse the Tourism Centre for souvenirs and send postcards home, small reminders of their time in this most remote of communities.
They remained until Saturday, when a favourable shift in the wind signalled it was time to continue onward toward Cape Town. Jenny and Greg were a truly pleasant couple, gracious and deeply appreciative of the kindness shown to them. It is always a pleasure to welcome visitors who value the rare opportunity to experience life on Tristan da Cunha, and we wish them fair winds and a smooth onward passage. We hope one day to see them here again.