A Feathered Sunday: Birdwatching Adventure with Williams Taxis & Tours and Oceanwide Expeditions
There’s something deeply captivating about the quiet thrill of birdwatching. The anticipation, the stillness, the connection to nature.
Now imagine combining that with the remote beauty of St Helena Island and the excitement of spotting the rare St Helena Plover —more affectionately known as the Wirebird. Today, Sunday 13th April, Williams Taxis & Tours had the pleasure of hosting an enthusiastic group of 20 bird lovers for a special Wirebird-spotting adventure, and what a morning it turned out to be.
But before we dive into the feathered tales from the hills and coastal plains of St Helena, let’s set the scene with a few words about our special guests and how this unique experience came to life.
The Arrival of m/v Hondius: Oceanwide Explorers Come Ashore
On the 12th April Friday, the scenic Jamestown Wharf welcomed the arrival of the m/v Hondius, a state-of-the-art polar expedition vessel operated by Oceanwide Expeditions. Built to navigate the most remote parts of the planet, this vessel is one of the world’s first-registered Polar Class 6 cruise ships, renowned for its advanced capabilities and eco-conscious operations.
Oceanwide Expeditions, based in the Netherlands, is a pioneer in ship-based polar exploration. They specialize in small-group nature-focused voyages to some of the world’s most isolated destinations. Their ethos combines scientific interest with sustainable travel, making their passengers the ideal guests for St Helena’s unique ecosystems.
The Hondius had already visited Tristan da Cunha—a fellow member of the British Overseas Territories and one of the most isolated inhabited islands in the world—before setting course for St Helena. Following their stop here, the voyage continues to Ascension Island and eventually Cape Verde, making this a truly extraordinary journey across the South Atlantic.
A WhatsApp Message That Turned Into a Sunday to Remember
It all began with a voice call.
Mike, one of the passengers aboard the Hondius and a passionate birder, reached out to Williams Taxis & Tours via WhatsApp a few days prior. His request was simple: Could we arrange a Wirebird-spotting trip for a small group of 10 enthusiasts? Of course, we said yes.
As the day drew nearer, that initial 10 quickly doubled. With 20 keen-eyed birdwatchers now expected, we quickly mobilized two Transit buses and assigned our drivers, Craig and Lucas, to lead the charge. Mike had done a superb job rallying his fellow travelers, who disembarked with cameras in hand and binoculars at the ready—eager to spot one of the world’s rarest endemic birds in its natural habitat.
The Chase for the Wirebird Begins
Our journey started at the Jamestown Wharf, where guests were welcomed and briefed before boarding our comfortable Transit buses. Spirits were high. The air was filled with anticipation.
Our first stop was the St Helena Golf Club—a-known but prime location for Wirebird sightings. Just as we approached, Craig spotted movement on the right side of the road. With the buses pulled over safely, and our guests reminded to be cautious due to occasional airport traffic, we began our first excursion on foot.
The excitement was tangible. Within moments, calls of "There’s one!" and the clicking of camera shutters echoed across the terrain. We counted between 6 to 8 individual Wirebirds here—including a juvenile, which brought smiles and quiet awe among the group. Other native and species made appearances too, keeping everyone alert and their checklists growing.
First Group off the Bus
The first group to get off the bus, cameras were in position within seconds!!
Birds, Buses, and Beautiful Views
After more than an hour exploring the grassy outskirts of the golf course, our group gathered at the base of the slope. From there, we made our way toward our next destination—Horse Point.
A rugged and raw landscape that feels as if you’ve stepped onto another planet, Horse Point offers wide open views and silence that carries only the sound of the wind. Near the Satellite Earth Station, our guests spent another 45 minutes quietly scanning the landscape.
Here, around 8 more Wirebirds were spotted—including one chick that looked to be only a few days old. It was a remarkable sight. Guests were incredibly respectful, ensuring they kept to marked paths, avoided disturbing vegetation, and steered clear of any potential nesting sites. It was a testament to the ethos Oceanwide Expeditions fosters in its travelers—respect for wildlife, curiosity grounded in care.
Conservation in Action
The significance of this morning’s sightings went beyond the joy of ticking off a checklist. Our drivers made careful note of the number of birds seen and and the guests observed two with tracking tags. This data will be passed on to the St Helena National Trust, contributing to ongoing conservation efforts for the Wirebird—a species whose population hovers precariously around a few hundred individuals.
The conversations among guests went beyond birds too. Curious minds asked about the island’s lifestyle, our airport operations, and day-to-day life on one of the world’s most remote inhabited islands. It was a chance not only to showcase our wildlife but also to share what it means to live on St Helena.
Back to the Wharf: Grateful Hearts and Camera Rolls Full
By midday, our birdwatching expedition came to a close. With memory cards with rare captures and minds brimming with new knowledge, our group returned to the Jamestown Wharf. There, they reboarded the m/v Hondius to enjoy a well-earned lunch and prepare for a marine excursion later in the afternoon with one of the island’s local boat operators.
A Morning We Won’t Forget
For us at Williams Taxis & Tours, this wasn’t just another booking. It was a privilege.
From that first WhatsApp message to waving goodbye at the wharf, we loved every moment of hosting Mike and his group. Their energy, enthusiasm, and respect for the environment made the entire morning a rewarding experience. It reaffirmed for us why we do what we do—connecting visitors to the heart and soul of our island.
We’re excited to continue offering these bespoke experiences. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast, a history lover, or simply a curious traveler eager to explore a place unlike anywhere else on Earth—St Helena awaits.
End of the morning
The end of the morning excursion at the Jamestown Wharf
Your Wirebird Adventure Awaits
Planning a trip to St Helena? Interested in seeing the rare Wirebird with your own eyes? Whether you’re visiting with a cruise, flying in, or planning an extended stay—let Williams Taxis & Tours be your guide.
We offer private tours tailored to your interests, group size, and schedule. Reach out to us directly via WhatsApp or email, and let’s create your own unforgettable island experience.
Our moto is “Don’t just visit St Helena—experience it”.
Book now and spot your own slice of South Atlantic magic.
