Saint Helena

Saint Helena’s Port Control publishes yacht arrival, anchoring-contact and processing arrangements. Yachts usually anchor and may go ashore only after permission is granted. Check the latest Port Control notices and contact the authority before visiting.

Before arriving at Saint Helena, contact Port Control/Radio and anchor as directed. The government currently says yachts must anchor because the mooring system is unavailable. Do not rely on old information about berths or moorings; check available anchorages and weather restrictions before departure.

Saint Helena Port Control requires vessels to call on VHF 16 when approaching, then switch to VHF 14 after anchoring and wait for permission before going ashore. Normal clearance office hours are 09:00–15:00 on weekdays. Confirm current arrangements before sailing.

The master should first complete pratique and port reporting as directed by Port Control. Crew and passengers must show documents, insurance and any required visa to Immigration. Saint Helena also requires an entry permit; a passport or vessel report does not automatically authorize an individual to land.

Saint Helena’s Customs Ordinance requires the master of an arriving vessel to submit a vessel declaration and related manifests as prescribed; Customs formalities are also required on departure. Prepare registration, people and cargo details and confirm which forms apply to private yachts with Customs.

On arrival, comply with inspection requirements set by Port Control and quarantine/pratique authorities. People and goods must not go ashore before permission is granted. Public pages do not provide a complete list of food, plant and pet requirements; disclose relevant items to port and quarantine authorities in advance.

Saint Helena’s Customs Ordinance requires controlled and prohibited imports to be declared or authorized. The legislation is not a complete yacht-specific list. Before carrying weapons, medicines, food, plants, animals or other controlled items, confirm requirements with Customs and quarantine authorities.

On arrival, contact Port Control and anchor as directed; do not go ashore before permission. The master then completes pratique with port/quarantine staff, crew show documents to Immigration, and the master makes a Customs declaration. A 2025 government notice says services moved to Rupert’s, so the former Jamestown office address may no longer be valid. Arrange and confirm current clearance hours in advance.

Saint Helena regulations authorize fees for Customs services and related matters, but this review did not confirm a complete current tariff for private yachts. Check applicable charges and amounts with Customs or Port Control before departure.