Visit of the MV Hondius, April 2025
Report by Kelly Green with photos from Craig Robertson, Kieran Glass, Hans Verdaat & Hazel Pittwood
The cruise ship MV Hondius arrived on the 4th April 2025 for a three day visit to the islands, having already visited Gough (where they'd had a fab day of Zodiac cruises). She headed first to Nightingale Island.
Zodiac operations at sea
Nightingale Island
The conditions were looking just right for a landing at Nightingale's West Landing site. The Conservation RIB wasted no time and headed out to meet the vessel to drop off local Conservation guides, Tristan Glass and Kieran Glass, to pilot the visitors' rare and thrilling trip ashore. This was something the cruise company hadn't pulled off in many years, given the steep cliffs, wave-battered shores, and notoriously unpredictable seas.
Tristan Glass (left) and Kieran Glass (right) with cruise passengers on a zodiac off Nightingale Island.
They enjoyed the island's rich wildlife, including curious juvenile Yellow-Nosed Albatross around the Ponds and among the tussock grass, and many Sub-Antarctic fur seals lounging on the rocks. There were plenty of photographic opportunities
Happy visitors among the nesting albatrosses, cameras at the ready
Nesting Albatrosses at one of the Ponds
Afterwards, the Expedition Leader, Hans Verdaat, and his colleague Hazel Pittwood said they'd had a spectacular day on Nightingale and absolutely loved the island. A true expedition triumph and a moment none of them will forget! They couldn't stop raving about our local legends: Conrad Glass, who they have enjoyed working with over many years, and Tristan and Kieran Glass, whose knowledge and support made this once-in-a-blue-moon landing possible.
Stoltenoff, Middle or Alex islands viewed from Nightingale, and Tristan da Cunha island on the horizon.
As the sun set, Hondius sat gracefully between all three islands-a truly magical sight.
Visiting Tristan Island
Back at the Tourism Centre, things had been in full swing while the ship was at Nightingale. They were still cleaning up from the Bark Europa's visit the day before, restocking the shop and café, and prepping fresh lobster for Hondius's big Saturday stop.
Saturday 5th April kicked off bright and early, with zodiacs in the water by 7:30am. Immigration hopped on board, and before they knew it, passengers were stepping ashore with huge smiles and camera-ready enthusiasm.
Expedition Leader Hans Verdaat by the Remotest Island sign
As with every visit this season, the first tour out from the harbour was our signature Volcano and Thatched House Tour. Others opted to wander the settlement at their own pace. Every venue was open, and the shopping buzz was real!
Visitors exploring the settlement
Two crew members who also came on an early zodiac made their way to our excellent dental department. They were escorted to the Camogli Healthcare Centre by our island's Doctor Felix. He welcomed them with his big smile. Whatever work they had done must have been top-notch, as an hour later they were spotted soaking up the sun and enjoying a sandwich before heading back aboard.
At 1:00pm, many guests joined Uncle Stan Green for a settlement walk. The visitors were full of curious questions and Stan told them wonderful stories from Tristan's rich and unique history.
 |
 |
| Visitors with Andre Repetto gathering at the foot of the Harbour Road for their 1961 Volcano and Thatched House Museum walk | Fishing off the end of the breakwater with Shane Green |
By 2:00pm, the action really picked up! We had several activities running simultaneously:
Firstly, there was harbour fishing with Shane Green and two enthusiastic guests - a mum and her son, who quickly turned it into a friendly (but fierce!) competition.
There was a tour of St Mary's School with Head Teacher Mr. Peter Foster that was thoroughly enjoyed. The ship kindly brought fruit and a beautiful cake for the students. The fruit was particularly welcome because supply ship difficulties meant that the island had run out. They were so chuffed!
 |
 |
| Visitors at St Mary's School, and the students with the fruit and special cake kindly given to them by the ship. | |
Fourteen guests also requested a taxi tour of the potato patches. This is a great way to get to view more of the island, quickly.
And finally, some guests played a round of golf out on the course, joined by father and son duo Chris and Ceddie Swain as their trusty caddies. After a fun game, the golfers invited the caddies for a celebratory bevvy at the Albatross Bar - cheers all around!
Golf
Meanwhile, islanders and Hondius crew were hard at work loading up potatoes and frozen goodies bound for St. Helena. A huge thanks to them for their teamwork and muscle. Those treats are going to be so appreciated over there! There was also an opportunity for Acting Administrator Craig Robertson to hop on board and head up to the bridge to officially welcome the ship's Captain and crew.
Loading potatoes for St Helena, the ship's next port.
 |
 |
| The captain receives a plaque from the Acting Admin | Dinner onboard with the settlement in the background |
As the day wound down and passengers began returning to the ship, there was a sense of calm and quiet satisfaction. It felt special, knowing this was the final cruise ship visit of the season. Soon the wildlife will also begin its winter retreat, and the island will settle into its peaceful rhythm. But we'll be ready and waiting to welcome everyone back when the time comes!
Inaccessible Island
But the adventure wasn't quite over for our "superstar" guides, Tristan and Kieran. That night, they boarded the Hondius, aiming for a landing on Inaccessible Island the next day. Sadly, weather and swell had other plans, but guests still got to enjoy an exciting zodiac cruise around the island - a beautiful consolation to wrap up a magical weekend.
The ships' zodiacs neatly stacked as she sails from the coast
Birdwatchers on deck with their monoculars, binoculars and cameras.
And finally...
It's always exciting to see photos from the visitors' and crew's perspectives in addition to our own. From zodiac landings to friendly faces around the settlement, these snaps truly capture the magic of Tristan, the outer islands and the beautiful MV Hondius!
If you were on the MV Hondius, we'd welcome your feedback using our Visitors' Feedback Form.
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.
 |
 |
| 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.
 |
 |
| 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.
 |
 |
| 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
 |
 |
| 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.
If you were on the Bark Europa, we'd welcome your feedback using our Visitors' Feedback Form.
Page Updated: Tristan da Cunha Visitors' Feedback |
 |
| Feedback from visitors to Tristan da Cunha. 28-Mar-2025 |
|
Visit of the MV Silver Wind, March 2025
Report from Kelly Green with additional photos from Philip Kendall
In the early hours of the 26th March 2025, before the sun had even risen, we spotted the shimmering light from the Silver Wind steaming in front of the settlement.
The MV Silver Wind
Despite the unfavourable weather conditions, there was still hope that we could at least board Administrator Philip and his wife Louise, who no doubt had a restless night. Everyone was down at the harbour early. Also ready and waiting were the local shopkeepers packed and ready to board —awaiting the all-clear from the RIB crew and the Captain.
The ship initially lowered a zodiac, but communication came through quickly that it was too rough to safely use their boats. Without delay, the Search and Rescue police RIB was brought down to the beach. Luggage, lobster, and vegetables were loaded swiftly. The Search and Rescue team assessed the conditions and deemed it safe enough for just one transfer trip.
 |
 |
| Philip & Louise Kendall embarking on the Search & Rescue RIB to transfer over very choppy water to the ship | |
Although a little damp, Philip and Louise were delivered safely to the Silver Wind, thanks to the excellent skills of the Tristan RIB crew. They were so grateful that there are such capable coxswains and crew on Tristan, otherwise they would not have made it.
Having dried off Philip did a plaque exchange with Captain Sasha, the Ukrainian Master of this wonderful vessel. The captain explained that they had received a weather warning from their headquarters so would not be able to wait around as originally planned.
 |
 |
| Silver Wind plaque given to the Administrator to take to the island on his return | The fresh Tristan Lobster and vegetables taken to the ship were served at dinner in the evening |
From the harbour you could clearly see, the no doubt disappointed guests. A few of them had however emailed in to say how beautiful the island looked! One passenger had actually ordered goods online through Tristan's Shopify Store, and the Post Office and Tourism team packed it up and got it down to the harbour just as the Search and Rescue RIB was about to depart to the vessel!
Passengers at the rails of the observation deck viewing Tristan and the RIB operations
The RIB returned to harbour not long after, with all crew members thoroughly soaked—but the operation was a success.
Operations were stood down for the day as the heavy north-westerly swell was expected to increase. It was a real shame, as we always look forward to welcoming visitors, and with this being our largest cruise liner of the year, the financial impact of missed shore landings will be significant.
The Silver Wind just had time to carry out a ship cruise around all three top islands, before setting sail for South Africa at 6:30pm. From the deck of the ship, the avid twitchers were rewarded with albatrosses, petrels and terns, while the keen eyed even spotted a 4m long hammerhead shark in the waters around Nightingale.
Tristan receding from view as the ship departs. The light green patch, centre, is Sandy Point
Nightingale Island with Middle Island
The passengers on board were very understanding, having witnessed Philip and Louise's damp arrival onboard. They were welcomed with a round of applause to the daily roundup in the ships theatre in the evening. The availability of fresh Tristan Lobster at dinner that evening was some compensation.
The day after the ship's departure started with a 45 minute Q&A session where Philip Kendall answered questions about life on Tristan and his experiences as Administrator. There was also information for passengers about Tristan displayed on the ship's notice board.
 |
 |
| Philip Kendall's Q&A session with passengers about life on Tristan | Tristan information on the Silver Wind notice board |
If you were on the MV Silver Wind, we'd welcome your feedback using our Visitors' Feedback Form.
Visit of the SH Diana, March 2025
Report from Kelly Green with additional photos from Philip Kendall and the expedition team
On Friday, 21st March 2025, as the first light of dawn broke over Tristan da Cunha, the sound of cockerels crowing filled the air. I lay in bed for a moment, knowing that it would be a busy day ahead - the arrival of the SH Diana was expected. As I always do, I looked out my window to check the conditions, and to my delight, the morning was absolutely perfect.
The SH Diana arriving
Before the day’s activities began, I stepped outside to hang my washing. Just then, my phone buzzed with a message from Nikki, the ship’s expedition leader. She had sent a breathtaking photo of the settlement bathed in the warm glow of the rising sun. As I started to reply, I glanced up - and there she was, SH Diana, gracefully rounding the corner into view.
The view from the ship as the sun rises beyond the settlement and Big Point...
...and passengers' view of 1961 Volcano and the settlement
The day’s operations commenced promptly at 7:20 AM. First, the scout boat arrived, followed by some of the ship’s personnel, who efficiently set up a gazebo and water station for the guests. Meanwhile, the Administrator and immigration officials made their way to the ship for clearance, ensuring everything was in order.
 |
 |
| The ship's wall of plaques already had one from Tristan, received during a previous visit. Rather than exchange a second plaque, Administrator Philip Kendall gave a book about the island to the captain for the ship's library | |
 |
 |
| Passengers arriving in the harbour by zodiac, and gathering on the quay for the walk up to the village | |
As this was happening, my tour guides, taxi drivers, and bus operators assembled at the harbour, ready for the morning’s excursions. At 8:15 AM, passengers began disembarking, with the first tours heading to the volcano and the thatch house. The visiting group had also requested a taxi and bus tour to the Potato Patches, and we made arrangements for 49 guests using a combination of a 12-seater bus and 10 standby cars.
There was also long walk to the Potato Patches tour that headed off; they got to enjoy beautiful runaway beach!
Islander Joyce Hagan keeping an eye on things by the harbour sign
The harbour had now quietened down as most guests were out exploring. I made my way back to the Tourism Centre, where only a few visitors were there as everybody was out and about.
A notable highlight of the day was that the SH Diana agreed to take several passengers back to Cape Town. These included islanders and expat workers who had been on Tristan. At 10:30 AM, they boarded the ship, ready for their journey home.
As the morning turned into a beautiful, sunny afternoon, the Tourism Centre became lively again. Visitors gathered to take photos at the iconic Tristan sign, and there was a buzz around the shops, where souvenirs, lobster tarts, postcards, and stamps were in high demand. Many guests explored the longboat museum and the newly installed interpretation boards, enjoying the island’s rich history and stunning landscapes.
 |
 |
| Passengers gather round the 'Remotest Island' sign | Visitors in the Post Office & Tourism Centre |
A visitor relaxes in the Tourism Centre garden with a game of golf in play in the field behind
One of the most exciting impromptu additions to the day was a trip to Pigbite on the other side of the 1961 volcano to see rockhopper penguins. This was the first time we've arranged this tour, and with the help of the Conservation team, visitors eagerly hopped into the back of the 4x4s for rugged rides to their destination.
Visitors on the Pigbite tour...
...and in the backs of the bakkies ready to return over the lava flow (visible at right)
As the afternoon stretched on, the pub filled with laughter, music, and the clinking of glasses, as visitors and locals enjoyed cold beers and rounds of snooker. Even the golf course saw action until just before 6:00 PM, with players making the most of the long daylight hours.
 |
 |
| Island passengers leave to 'hitch a ride' to Cape Town | Passengers returning in one of the ship's zodiacs |
Meanwhile, the final Zodiac of the day departed, carrying the Tristan da Cunha guides who would spend the night on board in preparation for an early start towards Nightingale Island the next morning.
Nightingale Island Trip
On day two, passengers visited Nightingale Island, disembarking at the West Landing. Tristan guides took them up the cliffs to see the birdlife nested in the tussock grass and by the ponds.
Delighted passengers approaching the landing place in a zodiac at Nightingale Island
Passengers disembarking from a zodiac at the West Landing, Nightingale Island, with Middle Island in the background and Inaccessible on the horizon
 |
 |
| Island guides help visitors up the steep and slippery path from the landing place | |
The reward for their climb - A photogenic group of Rockhopper penguins
The visit of SH Diana was truly one for the books - a day of smooth operations, exciting excursions, and beautiful weather that showcased Tristan da Cunha at its best. From early morning walks to late-evening golf games, the energy of the island was vibrant and welcoming, leaving our guests with unforgettable memories.
If you were on the SH Diana, we'd welcome your feedback using our Visitors' Feedback Form.
Cruise Ship SH Diana embarks Tristan passengers |
 |
| The SH Diana, visiting 21-22 March 2025 embarked nice passengers from the island for its final leg to Cape Town. 22-Mar-2025 |
|
Visit of the SH Diana, November 2024
Report from Kelly Green with additional photos from Randall Repetto and Philip Kendall
On the 18th November 2024, Tristan da Cunha eagerly anticipated the arrival of the first cruise ship of the 2024/2025 season. Despite the excitement, the ship's late departure from Cape Town due to adverse weather delayed its arrival at the island. Nevertheless, the island's dedicated cruise ship team, including immigration, port control, the radio operator and team, harbourmaster, and tourism staff, worked tirelessly alongside the ship's crew to ensure a successful landing.
The SH Diana's scout boat entering the harbour shortly after her arrival.
At approximately 16:15, the ship came into view, drawing close to the island to expedite disembarkation. The scout boat was first to arrive, picking up the immigration team along with Administrator Philip and his wife, Louise. The immigration team swiftly cleared the ship for operations, while the Administrator and Louise joined the vessel for a plaque exchange ceremony. During this exchange, the island presented a commemorative plaque, while the ship gifted a model boat as a token of appreciation.
 |
 |
| Admin Philip Kendall gifts an island plaque to the ship's captain in exchange for a model of the SH Diana. | |
Once operations commenced, the ship's team worked efficiently, using both harbor steps to disembark passengers via zodiacs in rapid succession. Onshore, guides welcomed groups of 20-30 visitors, offering a 20-minute village walk followed by 20 minutes of free time.
A zodiac brings the first passengers into the harbour
Above & below: Visitors call at the ever-popular 'Remotest Island' sign during their village tours.
Despite the limited timeframe, visitors managed to enjoy a variety of activities, including: shopping for souvenirs at the Rockhopper Gift Shop and Island Store, sending postcards or enjoying lobster sandwiches at the Post Office and Tourism Centre, and spotting wildlife. Some visitors even saw a Rockhopper penguin and chick.
Although the Thatched House and Longboat Museum were open, time constraints meant that most visitors were unable to explore them fully.
Visitors buying stamps and souvenirs at the Post Office and Tourism Centre.
Visitors writing postcards home in the Post Office and Tourism Centre.
Sipping a beer at the Albatross Bar may well have been the most popular undertaking. Randall, the pub manager, was able to get a few pictures before "it just got so busy".
Visitors drinking in the Albatross Bar
A highlight of the visit was the newly unveiled beach sign at the harbour, which quickly became a favorite spot for photos alongside the iconic welcome sign. Additionally, the Conservation Department introduced a stunning new viewing point at the top of the harbour road, complete with interpretive boards, which visitors enjoyed for the first time.
 |
 |
| The new sign in the harbour and Conservation's information boards will evidently be popular with tourists. | |
With only 40 minutes ashore, the visit was brief but deeply appreciated by all. As the last zodiac departed with the expedition team at sunset around 20:00, the smiles and joy on visitors' faces underscored the significance of their short but memorable time on the island.
 |
 |
| Philip Kendall says au revoir to departing passengers at the harbour before they return to the ship in their zodiac. | |
Andy, the island's friendly radio operator, bid the ship a heartfelt farewell, wishing them a safe onward journey to South Georgia. Though the visit was fleeting, it was a momentous and rewarding occasion for both Tristan da Cunha and its visitors, marking a vibrant start to the cruise season.
SH Diana departing Tristan in the evening with all lights blazing.
