The other option is by way of the last remaining Royal Mail Ship (RMS) in the world – the “Saint Helena” which travels between Portland – Tenerife – Ascension Island – Saint Helena – Walvis Bay and Capetown. It also occasionally stops at Tristan da Cunha. There is also a programme of shuttle services between Saint Helena and Ascension. A selection of cruises (ranging from 4 days to around 4 weeks) allow you to discover these remote islands at a more leisurely pace. Please contact us for further details.


Activities

Fishing
The waters around Ascension Island are home to a large variety of fish, and fishing both from boats and the shore, is extremely popular, both as a hobby and to supplement the local diet. Offshore there are several species that can be found including Tuna, Wahoo, Marlin, Sailfish, Dorado and Shark. Inshore species include Grouper, Bullseye and Conger Eel. There are a number of skippered boats available for at reasonable rate and the hire of the fishing equipment is included in the price. Arrangements can be made via the Obsidian Hotel or at the pier. It is a good idea for visitors to note that fishing from the rocks in Ascension can be extremely dangerous as there are tidal surges, races and the sea state can be highly unpredictable. Before attempting any form of fishing it is best to seek the advice of an experienced local fisherman.

Golf
Surprisingly despite the islands’ lunar landscape, golf is a popular game on Ascension. With experience gained on the notorious One Boat course, Ascension Island residents make challenging opponents. Competitions take place almost every weekend and for small fee visitors can join in. The 18 hole course at One Boat is situated halfway between Georgetown and Two Boats Village. The “Greens” which are locally called “Browns” and are made from crushed compacted lava which has been smoothed flat with diesel oil, at the edges of the fairway can be found large volcanic boulders. This course makes for a unique and interesting game. The cost of a game is comparatively cheap compared to other parts of the world. After a game the clubhouse can provide visitors with a refreshing drink in a friendly atmosphere.

Swimming/swimming pools
Beaches on Ascension are of dazzling white sand but as the tides and seas around the island are unpredictable, swimming in the ocean is only advised at English Bay and Comfortless Cove and even then with caution. The beaches are never crowded and the weather is nearly always hot and sunny, so on a good day when the sea conditions are right the rental or purchase of a mask and snorkel is well rewarded by the sight of the many tropical fish. There are two swimming pools on Ascension which are free to use and open to the public. There is a small salt water pool in Georgetown and at Two Boats Village behind the Two Boats Club there is a larger fresh water pool.

Eating out/nightlife
Two Boats Club
Located in Two Boats village, which lies about fifteen minute drive form Georgetown, the facilities here include a billiard/snooker/pool room, darts, gaming machines and a skittle alley. Live music and discos are a regular event as are “Mountain Grill” dinners. Lunches are served most days; evening meals can be arranged by prior arrangement

Saints Club
Located in Georgetown, the club has a pleasant atmosphere and interior that displays photos of St Helena and Ascension. Facilities include gaming machines, darts, pool and snooker tables. Other forms of entertainment are available most weeks.

Volcano Club Snack Bar, American Base
Located on the American Base, the Snack Bar sells a variety of American style fast food (including T-bone steak, burgers and pizzas etc.). It is an extremely popular place for a lively evening out.

Reflections Coffee Shop
Located in Georgetown, just across the road from the Post Office, this coffee shop is open most mornings/afternoons. You can sit under a shaded patio, relax and enjoy a variety of cakes and savouries as well as hot and cold drinks


Car hire
Car hire is essential to enable proper and full exploration of the island – the low level of traffic makes for stress free driving. A small fleet of vehicles is available from the Obsidian Hotel. All vehicles are clean, well maintained and comprehensively insured. The types of vehicles that are available include Ford Laser, Citroen, Ford Fiesta, and Toyota Pickup. Hire cars are very popular so it’s a good idea to reserve one in advance to avoid any disappointment.


Accommodation
The limited accommodation offered on Ascension Island means that pre-booking is absolutely necessary.

Obsidian Hotel
Located in the heart of the capital Georgetown and just a stone’s throw from some of the beaches and the pier, the Obsidian is the only hotel on Ascension Island. The accommodation is of the highest standard and comprises of 16 single rooms and double room apartments. The apartments and rooms are all en-suite and are equipped with TV, international telephone and internet connections, fridge and tea making facilities. All the rooms have either balconies or patios. The hotel now has a Wi-Fi Hotspot which covers the hotel building and the patio area, this allows broadband access so guests can bring their own laptops.

Hayes House
A more economic option, this guesthouse is situated in Georgetown. All the rooms are modern and comfortable, though they are smaller than those in the hotel. All rooms are en-suite, have a TV, a fridge and tea making facilities. Rooms sleep a maximum of two people and all rooms share a communal lounge.

Clarence House
Clarence House is a 20 room hostel which is highly suitable for large parties. The rooms are to a modern standard and are quite comfortable, but they don’t have en-suite facilities. There are large bathrooms available for males and females with separate shower and toilet cubicles. All rooms also share a communal lounge.