Travel trade encouraged to assist tourism now before impact of airport on St Helena

Over 70 travel agents are expected on board the RMS St Helena when she returns to the UK at the end of this month. The trade reception is part of a further initiative being run by the ship's managers - Andrew Weir Shipping (AWS) - to raise the profile of the ship and the island to the travel trade.  

AWS is keen to raise awareness at this time before the character of St Helena is transformed.  An airport is to be built on St Helena during the course of the next five years.  Therefore, travellers are being encouraged to take the opportunity to plan their trips now before the unique nature of St Helena changes.  Construction is thought to start towards the end of next year on a 2.3 km runway. 

The RMS St Helena is one of the last working Royal Mail Ships and offers cruises to the remote tropical islands of St Helena and Ascension via the South West African coastline and ports en route.  There are opportunities to sail from the UK, Namibia or South Africa.

St Helena's only access has been via this working cargo and passenger ship for the past 25 years and with only 128 passengers on board, the voyage is very much part of this special and unique experience.  St Helena is a peaceful and safe destination, full of history and wildlife, yet with an opportunity for many sports and outdoor activities that can be enjoyed in a year-round temperate climate.

For more information contact Andrew Weir Shipping (AWS) on 020 7575 6480

Press contact:  Jackie Noble on 01275 856686 or email Jackie@barneys.co.uk