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Cruise Port Noumea: What To Know And Best Things To Do

Find out all you need to know about visiting the cruise port Noumea. No matter which cruise line you are traveling with I will let you know all about visiting including top tips, how to get around, and the best shore excursions.

Noumea is the capital and largest city of New Caledonia , a French overseas territory in the South Pacific Ocean. It is also one of the most popular cruise destinations in the region, offering a unique blend of European and Melanesian cultures, modern amenities, and natural attractions.

This is why I have decided to write a guide on the Cruise Port Noumea.

Many cruise ships stop in Noumea when exploring the South Pacific. The country has plenty of incredible islands with beautiful lagoons and relaxing vibes which will really get you into the holiday spirit. Though Noumea is much more of a cosmopolitan city, one that you actually need to plan and book an excursion if you are to make the most of your stop at the cruise port Noumea.

Nevertheless, that is why I am here. Strap in as I let you know all there is about the cruise port Noumea, such as top tips, how to get around, and the different shore excursions you may want to book.

This is why you can make the most out of your time here and continue having an incredible holiday.

Cruise Port Noumea: Things To Do & Top Travel Tips

Why Do All Cruises Visit Noumea

Now if I am being 100% honest Noumea is a lot of people less favorite cruise port in New Caledonia, including myself. This is simply because it isn’t the most beautiful port surrounded by container ships, and you will need to actually book something here in order to make your stay worthwhile.

Also being the capital it isn’t too exciting of a port unless you enjoy city life. Honestly, most people recommend shore excursions here which will actually take you off the mainland, and onto one of the small neighboring islands, and I couldn’t agree more.

So if the best thing to do at the cruise port Noumea is to leave, why do the cruise ships even visit here?

Well, there are two separate answers to this question. The first is that you can experience the history, beautiful landscapes as well as the diverse culture. The second, and more likely reasonable answer is the agreement between New Caledonia and the cruise companies.

Basically, the supposed agreement is that the ships must visit Noumea if they want to make stops at the islands in the country. This means the capital gets extra funds from tourism stimulating the economy. I mean it is easy enough to pull up at one of the islands like Lifou, Isle of Pins, or Mare and just enjoy the day at the beach and spend absolutely nothing.

Though in Noumea you for sure will need to book something. Whether this is a shore excursion or transport around.

Also, it is said that the positioning of Noumea makes it the perfect first stop from Australia or New Zealand in terms of distance. Not sure how much truth there is to this but yes.

Personally, the cruise port Noumea was my least favorite stop. However, I would visit again and do it differently next time by booking one of the shore excursions which actually take me off the mainland.

Top Tips For Cruisers In Noumea

Now if you are a first-time visitor to the cruise port Noumea here are some helpful tips so you can make the most out of your visit:

• The boat actually docks at the cruise port Noumea which means you can easily just walk on and off. Most of the time in the islands you will need a tender to get to shore so docking is quite the luxury.
• Noumea has a tropical climate with warm and humid weather all year round. The average temperature is around 25°C, but it can vary depending on the season and the wind. You should pack light and breathable clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and insect repellent. You should also bring a rain jacket or umbrella, as Noumea can experience sudden showers or storms.
• Noumea uses the CFP franc as its currency, which is pegged to the euro. You can use your credit card at most places, but some small shops or markets might only accept cash. Being a cruise a lot of the smaller islands will take your home currency of NZD or AUD, though since Noumea is a capital city a lot of places will only accept CFP.
• Noumea is a French-speaking city, and although many locals can speak some English, they will appreciate it if you try to speak their language. You don’t need to be fluent, but learning some basic phrases like “bonjour” (hello), “merci” (thank you), “s’il vous plait” (please), and “au revoir” (goodbye) can go a long way. You can also use a translation app or a phrasebook to help you communicate.
• Noumea is a multicultural city with French, Kanak, Asian, and Pacific Islander influences. You should respect the local culture and traditions, and avoid any behavior that might be considered rude or offensive. For example, you should not touch or point at someone’s head, as it is considered sacred by the Kanak people. You should also dress modestly when visiting religious sites or villages, and ask for permission before taking photos of people or places.
• It’s good to note that Noumea is a popular port of call for many cruise lines, and some of the best attractions and activities can be booked quickly. You can either book your shore excursions through your cruise line or independently online. You can also find some local tour operators at the cruise terminal, but they might charge higher prices or have limited availability.
• Lastly if your ship docks at the cruise port in Noumea on a Sunday you need to be aware that a lot of popular things to do in the capital will be closed. Therefore you should definitely book a shore excursion to one of the nearby islands to make the most out of the day.

Unfortunately, I didn’t realize a lot of the above before arriving by cruise ship in Noumea. We got caught in the rain, found that the market wouldn’t accept our AUD or NZD, and were there on a Sunday when a lot of things we closed. We ended up doing our hop-on hop-off tour rather fast as there weren’t too many places open then headed back to the boat to enjoy some peace and mostly empty swimming pools.

How To Get Around Noumea

Cruise visitors who want to explore Noumea have several options for transportation, depending on their preferences and budget.

Tchoo Tchoo Discovery Train

The Tchoo Tchoo Discovery Train is a fun and easy way to explore the city of Noumea. It is a small train that runs on wheels and takes you to the main attractions and landmarks of the city.

You can enjoy the views of the beautiful bays, beaches, and hills, as well as the colonial architecture and cultural heritage of Noumea. It has a guide who provides commentary in several languages, including English, French, Japanese, and Spanish.

The train departs from Anse Vata Bay, near the Mary D agency, and stops at the Ouen Toro lookout point, where you can see the stunning panorama of the city and the lagoon. Then, it continues to the Cote Blanche, a popular spot for walking and jogging along the waterfront.

Next, it goes to Faubourg Blanchot, where you can admire the old residential buildings and colonial houses that date back to the 19th century. Finally, it arrives at Coconut Square, where you have 30 minutes to explore the city center, visit the market, or buy some souvenirs.

The whole tour lasts about two hours and you can book your tickets though your cruise line providers shore excursions. The prices are relatively cheap at around $35 for adults and $30.00 for children.

Hop On Hop Off Bus

One of the best ways to explore Noumea is by taking the Hop On Hop Off Bus, a convenient and flexible service that allows you to visit the main attractions of the city at your own pace.

The Hop On Hop Off Bus has seven stops around Noumea, covering the most interesting and scenic areas. You can start your tour at any of the stops, and hop on and off as many times as you like with just one ticket. The buses run every 20 minutes, so you never have to wait long for the next one. The ticket is valid for a full day, giving you plenty of time to see everything you want.

The stops include:

Cruise Ship Terminal: This is where most cruise ship passengers arrive and depart from Noumea. It is also a good place to find information, souvenirs, and local products.

City Market: This is where you can experience the vibrant and colorful local culture of Noumea. You can browse through stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, seafood, handicrafts, and more.

Port Plaisance: This is where you can enjoy the views of the marina and the bay. You can also find some shops, cafes, and restaurants here.

Baie des Citrons: This is one of the most popular beaches in Noumea, where you can relax on the white sand, swim in the clear water, or try some water sports such as kayaking, windsurfing, or stand-up paddle boarding.

Anse Vata Bay: This is another beautiful beach in Noumea, where you can admire the views of the lagoon and the islands. You can also visit the Aquarium des Lagons, which showcases the amazing marine life of New Caledonia. From here you can also take a boat ride to Duck Island.

Route De L’Aquarium: This is where you can catch a glimpse of some of the historical landmarks of Noumea, such as the old prison, the old hospital, and the old cemetery.

Musée de Nouvelle Calédonie: This is where you can learn more about the history and culture of New Caledonia. You can see exhibits displaying artifacts, costumes, weapons, tools, musical instruments, and more from various indigenous groups. You can also see some contemporary artworks by local artists. Tickets cost $9.70 / $15.00 AUD and can be purchased at the booths once you catch the free shuttle from the ship.

Beach Express

The Beach Express is a shuttle service that operates between Anse Vata Beach and the city center of Noumea. It is a convenient and affordable way to enjoy the beautiful beach and the vibrant city life.

The Beach Express runs every 15 minutes from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and costs $6.50 per person for a one-way trip. You can buy your tickets on board. You can also take a water taxi to Duck Island for just a couple of dollars more, where you can see more marine life and coral reefs.

Things To Do In Noumea

Noumea offers a variety of attractions and activities for cruise ship passengers who want to explore its culture, nature, and history. Here are some of the things you can do in Noumea:

Le Marche de la Moselle (Port Moselle Markets)

The Port Moselle Markets in Noumea are a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. They offer a variety of fresh food, souvenirs, handicrafts, and more.

The markets are located beside the marina at Port Moselle, which is the main port of Noumea and are open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 5 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Be aware they are closed on Mondays and public holidays.

The markets have five pavilions with blue-tiled roofs. Three of them are dedicated to fresh food, one to souvenirs and handicrafts, and one to a cafe bar.

The fresh food pavilions offer a wide range of local produce, such as fruits, vegetables, cheese, honey, spices, and more. You can also find exotic items like taro, plantain bananas, yams, and chokos.

The ocean produce pavilion is located near the wharf and displays a stunning array of seafood from the lagoon and the deep sea. You can find crabs, prawns, octopus, lobsters, and various kinds of fish.

The souvenir and handicraft pavilion is a great place to find gifts for your friends and family or to remember your trip to New Caledonia. You can browse through stalls selling clothing, jewelry, accessories, homewares, art, and more.

The cafe bar is situated at the heart of one of the pavilions and serves delicious French-inspired treats, such as croissants, cheese platters, and croque-madame. It is a popular spot to relax and enjoy the market atmosphere.

Baie des Citrons

Baie des Citrons is a popular beach and is located less than 10 minutes from the city center. The name of the bay means “Bay of Lemons” in French, but there are no lemon trees in the area. The origin of the name is uncertain, but some say it comes from six huge trunks loaded on a ship that ran aground there, while others say it comes from lemon trees planted there before 1900.

The bay is sheltered from the prevailing winds and has calm and clear waters that are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. There is a coral reef near the shore that hosts a diversity of marine life, such as fish, turtles, rays, and octopuses.

Aquarium des Lagons Nouvelle Caledonie

The Aquarium des Lagons Nouvelle Caledonie is a public aquarium that showcases the rich marine biodiversity of the coral reefs and lagoons of New Caledonia, as well as the freshwater ecosystems of the island. The aquarium was founded in 1956 by Dr. René Catala, a pioneer of coral reef research, and was renovated and expanded in 2007.

The aquarium has 12 thematic zones that display different habitats and species, from the freshwater rivers and lakes to the open sea and the deep ocean.

Visitors can admire colorful fish, corals, crustaceans, turtles, sharks, rays, and more. The aquarium also features a medusarium, where jellyfish are displayed in a dark room with changing lights, and a fluorescent coral room, where corals glow under ultraviolet light.

They are open from Monday to Friday from 13:00 to 18:00, and on weekends and holidays from 9:00 to 18:00. The admission fee is 1,500 XPF / $13.00 for adults, 750 XPF/ $6.70 for children (5 to 16 years old).

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Les Petits Choux Patisserie

Les Petits Choux is a French bakery and pastry shop in Noumea. It is located near the cruise terminal, so it is a convenient option for visitors who want to taste some authentic French pastries, eclairs, tarts, and cakes.

The staff are friendly and the selection is large and enticing. You can also find some savory options such as filled baguettes and sandwiches. The prices are reasonable and the quality is high.

If you are looking for a delicious treat, Les Petits Choux is a great place to visit. You might even feel like you are in Paris for a moment!

Parc Zoologique & Forestier

Parc Zoologique & Forestier is a 36-hectare park in Noumea that was created in 1962 as the first terrestrial natural reserve. It was opened to the public in 1972 and named after Michel Corbasson, a former director of the park, in 1977.

The park features a variety of animals and plants, both native and exotic, that can be observed in different habitats. Some of the animals that can be seen in the park are cagous, flying foxes, parrots, monkeys, deer, wallabies, and reptiles.

The park also has a botanical garden, a playground, a picnic area, and a museum of natural history.

The park is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:15 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. The admission fee is 500 XPF / $4.50 for adults and 200 XPF / $1.80 for children.

Anse Vata Bay

Anse Vata Bay is a beautiful and popular destination in Nouméa. It is located on the southeastern coast of the main island, Grand Terre, and offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors.

One of the main features of Anse Vata Bay is its long sandy beach, which stretches for about two kilometers along the Roger-Laroque promenade. The beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing under the coconut trees.

There are also many hotels, restaurants, bars, shops, and nightclubs along the promenade, catering to different tastes and budgets.

Another attraction of Anse Vata Bay is its water sports. The bay is exposed to the trade winds, which create ideal conditions for windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing, and kayaking.

Some surfers even reach the nearby islands of Îlot Canard and Îlot Maître from Anse Vata. There are also several water taxi services that can take you to these islands, where you can enjoy snorkeling, diving, or just exploring the coral reefs and marine life.

Full-Day Shore Excursions In Noumea

Noumea offers a variety of shore excursions for cruise ship passengers, ranging from cultural tours to water activities. Here are some of the full-day shore excursion options you can choose from:

Duck Island

Duck Island is a small island near Noumea. It is a popular destination for snorkeling, relaxing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the coral reef and the marine life.

Duck Island is not really an island, but a small sandbank that emerged from the sea about 3000 years ago. It is surrounded by a fringing reef that forms a natural lagoon.

It is accessible by a water taxi that departs from Anse Vata Beach, the main tourist area of Noumea. The boat ride takes only 5 minutes and costs 1200 XPF / $10.80 for a round trip.

On the island, you can find a bar and restaurant on the beach, where you can enjoy drinks, snacks, and meals. You can also rent sun loungers, umbrellas, snorkeling equipment, and kayaks.

Duck Island is a marine reserve and has a snorkel trail that guides you through the reef. You can see various kinds of fish, coral, sea stars, sea cucumbers, and sometimes turtles. The water is clear and shallow, making it suitable for beginners and children.

The Island is open every day from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It can get crowded on weekends and holidays, so it is advisable to go early or on weekdays. You can also book a private tour or a zodiac boat ride to explore the island and the reef.

No doubt this is one of the more affordable island excursions from the cruise port Noumea making it a popular option with cruise goers.

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Amedee Island

No doubt the most popular shore excursion for ships in the cruise port Noumea is Amedee Island. This is a beautiful island famous for its lighthouse, which was built in 1865 and is the oldest metal lighthouse in the world.

Amedee Island is also a popular destination for tourists who want to enjoy the white sandy beaches, the coral reefs, and the marine life. You can take a day trip to the island and enjoy some of the following activities on offer:

• Take a glass-bottom boat trip and see the colorful fish and corals.
• Climb up the 247 steps of the lighthouse and enjoy the panoramic view of the island and the lagoon.
• Watch a traditional dance show and learn how to tie a sarong.
• Send a postcard from the smallest post office in the world, with a special stamp of the lighthouse.
• Shop for souvenirs, such as T-shirts, caps, sarongs, and key rings at the island boutique.
• Relax on the beach chairs and sun loungers, or rent snorkeling equipment, stand-up paddle, or kayak to explore the water.

Amedee Island is also a protected marine reserve that has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2009.

Tours to Amedee Island will be offered by your cruise ship operator and should be available to book both in advance and once on board. However, be aware this is one of those shore excursions that will sell out.

Any Questions? Let me know in the comments!

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Tasha Amy is a true backpacker at heart and has been discovering the world on a budget since 2015. Based in Gisborne, New Zealand she will spend many months each year traveling overseas as a solo female traveler before coming home and sharing her adventures online with you.

2 thoughts on “ Cruise Port Noumea: What To Know And Best Things To Do ”

Hi Tasha, I found your blog on Noumea very informative, Thank you ! I am visting Noumea as a cruise stopover for only 7 hours (2pm to 9pm) on 8th April – Monday – Would you recomend that we take the Hop on Hop off bus and would it be better to pre book ? Anything else that you think we shouldnt miss while there? Thanks, Rishab

Hey Rishab, Hopefully I am not replying too late, I have been busy on the road and only getting to comments now. Honestly I would recommend booking a tour while in Noumea, more specifically Duck Island or Amedee Island. However if you are wanting you simply explore Noumea itself the hop on hop off bus is a good option, but you dont need to book in advance.

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Noumea, New Caledonia

ShoreExcursions.com offers an excellent variety of independent shore excursions in Noumea, New Caledonia.

Explore the Exquisite Beauty of Noumea with Unforgettable Shore Excursions

Unveil the hidden treasures of Noumea, New Caledonia, with our extraordinary shore excursions that promise an unforgettable adventure. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of this tropical paradise, where pristine beaches meet vibrant coral reefs, and lush rainforests beckon to be explored. Embark on a journey like no other, where you can discover the essence of Noumea’s culture, indulge in thrilling outdoor activities, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Discover Noumea’s Natural Wonders

Unwind as you step ashore and prepare to be captivated by Noumea’s natural wonders. Our shore excursions offer a variety of experiences to suit every adventurer. Dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life on a snorkeling expedition. Explore the enchanting underwater world, where you’ll encounter colorful coral gardens, graceful sea turtles, and an array of exotic fish species.

Embark on an eco-tour through Noumea’s verdant rainforests, where you’ll be greeted by a symphony of tropical birdcalls and the rustling of lush foliage. Our knowledgeable guides will lead you on an immersive journey, sharing insights into the diverse flora and fauna that call this paradise home. From towering ancient trees to hidden waterfalls, each step will reveal a new and awe-inspiring sight.

Immerse Yourself in Noumea’s Cultural Delights

Delve into Noumea’s rich cultural heritage and experience the vibrant tapestry of traditions that make this destination truly unique. Join a guided tour of the city, where you’ll stroll through the charming streets, lined with colonial buildings and colorful markets. Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of local cuisine, savoring the delicate blend of French and Pacific influences.

Visit the Tjibaou Cultural Center, a masterpiece of architecture nestled amidst lush gardens, showcasing the diverse indigenous cultures of New Caledonia. Engage with local artisans, witness captivating traditional performances, and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s history and heritage. Our shore excursions provide an immersive experience that allows you to connect with the soul of Noumea and its people.

Thrilling Adventures for the Adventurous Soul

Calling all thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies! Get your heart racing with our exciting range of adventure-filled shore excursions. Take to the skies on a helicopter tour, where you’ll soar above Noumea’s picturesque landscapes, offering breathtaking panoramic views that will leave you in awe. Feel the rush of wind in your hair as you zip line through the dense rainforest canopy, enjoying an exhilarating bird’s-eye perspective.

For the water enthusiasts, our jet ski tours provide an adrenaline-pumping experience as you navigate the azure waters of Noumea’s lagoon. Feel the thrill as you skim across the waves, taking in the stunning coastal vistas and feeling a true sense of freedom. Whether it’s parasailing, kayaking, or paddleboarding, there’s an adventure waiting for you at every turn.

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Noumea (Grande Terre Island New Caledonia)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Australia - New Zealand - Pacific Ocean Islands

Local Time 2024-05-02 01:37

Port Noumea cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Noumea, Grande Terre Island New Caledonia. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Noumea is a port city on Grande Terre Island - New Caledonia's main (largest) island. Noumea is also country's capital and among the most westernized Pacific Ocean island cities. The city covers a total area of approx 46 km2 (18 mi2) and has population around 100,000.

Port's cruising season is between mid-May and mid-December. The island was discovered in 1774 by James Cook (1728-1779, British explorer, cartographer, Royal Navy Captain). He also gave the name New Caledonia as the islands reminded him the Scottish Highlands. The Romans named "Caledonia" the lands of England and Scotland, located north of Britannia.

Noumea Town offers more sunshine days than other Pacific Island capitals, as well as great beaches in close proximity to downtown. New Caledonia's capital is among the most rapidly growing in the South Pacific.

The city is served by Noumea Magenta Airport, located just 3 km (2 mi) northeast of downtown. The airport serves only domestic flights by (Air Caledonie) linking to the islands Ile Art, Ile-des-Pins (Isle of Pines) , Kone, Koumac, Lifou , Mare , Ouvea, Tiga, Touho. The nearest international airport (La Tontouta) is in the Paita suburb (approx 52 km / 32 mi northwest of the city). It serves the airlines Air New Zealand, Air Vanuatu, Aircalin (domestic) and Qantas, linking to Australia, NZ, Vanuatu, Fiji, Tahiti, Wallis and Futuna, Japan. These interconnected airports include Auckland , Brisbane , Melbourne , Sydney NSW , Nadi , Luganville , Port Vila , Wallis Island, Papeete , Osaka , Tokyo .

Noumea cruise terminal

Port Noumea cruise terminal is located very close to downtown, with Des Cocotiers (downtown's Coconut Square) located just at 5-min walking distance from the terminal at Moselle Marina. Terminal's building is surrounded by an outdoor handcraft market. Terminal's main facilities are on building's second floor.

The cruise terminal has info center (providing complimentary city maps), kiosks for tour operators (offering shore excursions), cafeteria, adjacent large car parking. Taxis are available only via phone ordering, as the terminal has no dedicated taxi ranks. Disembarking cruise tourists are welcomed with live performaces of traditional songs.

Noumea cruise port has max berthing capacity 1 liner at a time. When the port is visited by two ships simultaneously, the second ship is docked at the container terminal, from where its passengers are transported to the cruise terminal via free shuttle buses. In cases of 3+ cruise ships, the other vessels will be anchored at sea and their passengers ferried to the terminal via ship's tender boats.

It is easy to explore Noumea walking.  You will find pretty, small city with plenty charming cafes and bistros with local dining opportunities. You will feel the French provincial atmosphere. Noumea is amazing during the winter months (especially from November through January) when the Poincianas (also called flame trees) become all red colored.

You can explore variety of ocean life – over 1500 fish species and more than 350 coral species. Among the interesting places for visit and things to do are:

• Le Petit Train: Anse Vata trip to the center by miniature train
• New Caledonia National Aquarium: explore the ocean life, Route de L’Aquarium
• Tjibaou Cultural Centre: original design, enjoy dance, music and theatre performances
• Museums: the Geological Museum, the City of Noumea Museum, the Museum of New Caledonia and Museum of Maritime History.
• Place des Cocotiers: flame trees garden with cafes and stores.
• Anse Vata: tourist center, a place for water activities like sailing, swimming, kayaking and windsurfing.
• Mount Ouen Toro: explore Noumea views from the 128-meter tall Ouen Toro.
• Island Excursions: most popular destinations are Isle of Pines and Ilot Amédée.
• Pierre Vernier Walk: take a leisurely walk surrounded by coconut trees along St Marie Bay.
• Blue River Provincial Park: located on 9,000 hectare in the Southern Province. Blue River Provincial Park is great wildlife reserve with area for camping, picnics, walking and river swimming.

Noumea tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

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Noumea - user reviews and comments

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Royal Caribbean’s first overnight in Noumea

Royal Caribbean International’s 4,180-passenger  Ovation of the Seas , which carries a crew of 1,500, will make the company’s first overnight in Noumea.

The 168,666gt ship will arrive at 8 a.m. on November 17 and depart at 5 p.m. the following day, giving passengers the rare opportunity to explore this French overseas territory in the South Pacific after dark.

The overnight stay is part of a nine-night cruise leaving Sydney on November 14 which also visits  Mystery Island  in Vanuatu.

Evening shorex

Royal Caribbean has released new evening shore excursions for Ovation of the Seas, which include ‘An evening in Lemon Bay,’ a short bus ride from the ship’s berth.

There will be burgers and chips with draught beer or soft drinks at Le duke’s beachside family restaurant and a local dance show.

After dinner there will be about two hours for passengers to explore the boutiques and bars along the palm-lined promenade.

Another overnight option is a sunset cruise around Noumea’s coastline, taking in Lemon Bay (Baie de Citron) and Anse Vata beach village.

New Caledonia Tourism gm Jean-Marc Mocellin, has applauded Royal Caribbean’s initiative, urging other cruise lines that only spend a day in  Noumea  to consider overnights.

‘We’re pleased to see operators like Royal Caribbean extending their port time in Noumea,’ Mocellin told Seatrade Cruise News.

‘There is such a lot to discover around and just beyond Noumea’s city centre, and the introduction of this overnight call and the new excursion offerings will allow guests to explore the destination even further.’

New Caledonia Tourism is a member of the Australian Cruise Association and New Caledonia is a full member country of the South Pacific Tourism Organisation.

The post Royal Caribbean’s first overnight in Noumea appeared first on Discover the South Pacific .

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Excursions & Tours

Noumea shore excursions.

The capital of the South Pacific archipelago and overseas French territory New Caledonia, Noumea is located on the main island, Grand Terre. The blend of French and native Kanak influences as well as its beaches makes for a cultural and beautiful experience. The state-of-the-art Aquarium houses an expansive collection of living underwater species including the famous nautilus, which is one of the emblems of New Caledonia. The lush green landscape of vegetation in the form of many kinds of trees and blooming plants commonly surprise visitors.

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Day excursion to Amedee Islet via... - Amedee Lighthouse

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• Amedee Lighthouse

Day excursion to Amedee Islet via Carnival Cruises

Day trip via Carnival Cruise line - includes private transport to Amedee Islet to & from the cruise ship, hireage of snorkel included (refundable deposit of $10) glass bottom boat tour and buffet lunch with show and alcohol included. Wonderful! Had high expectations for this as this was the most expensive day excursion activity. From the start, the tour company were friendly and helpful, handing our a leaflet about the sea snakes & glass safety. From the bus ride off the ship, to the port and the boat ride to Amedee Island was smooth. Upon arrival to Amedee we were greeted by locals playing the ukelele & guitar with infectious happiness and smiles. The beach itself is beautiful. When we docked in New Caledonia the weather did not look good at all - as we approached Amedee, the sun was beaming and weather was great! As quoted by our tour guide - "The weather is always good at Amedee!" Whilst walking towards the island a sea snake slithered past, there was actually quite a lot of sea snakes - although this is normal, they leave you alone and are unable to bite you. Not too many fish but still a few out there while snorkelling. Towards the rocky area there were some colourful crabs. The tourist shop had your general knick knacks & snacks. The culture show was good, nothing great - your general cultural dance. Buffet lunch was great! A lot of options and a lot to go around, very yummy food. Advertised was one cocktail on arrival, however, you do not receive a cocktail on arrival, more so unlimited alcohol whilst the show & lunch is on (No complaints from me!) Two choices of alcohol - Wine - rose or fruit drink and coconut rum. Alcohol was unlimited and once everyone left they allowed me to take the left over alcohol (Hey.. why not? I did pay $200 for this excursion!) It was extra for the trip to the Light house, we weren't fussed about doing it so did not partake. The boat tour was good, the tour guide had a lot of info about Amedee island and the sea life. We were able to see fish and also turtles. Loved my day trip to Amedee - worth it in my opinion!!

Hello, Thank you for your comment. We are delighted that you had a pleasant time on the Amedee Island. We hope to welcome you again soon, MARY D team

Had a wonderful day on Amadee Island which I enjoyed as a shore excursion while cruising on Voyager of the Seas. Efficient & friendly staff, brand new boat, the Mary D, which was clean and spacious. The island itself was beautiful- spectacular snorkelling as turtles come in to the sea grass just off the beach, very informative glass bottom boat tour, delicious smorgasbord lunch and great local entertainment. I loved every minute! Highly recommended.

This was a great day trip. The snorkeling was very good. They provided a great lunch with plenty of food and the whole day was very well organised.

We did this trip as a trip from our ship (Voyager of the Seas) it was much cheaper than everything we could find online. We had a great day, boat which took us to the island was new, amazing clean and spacious, afternoon tea was served on board which was lovely. Resort on the island was lovely, deck chairs for all, amazing smorgasbord, really organised - glass bottom boat experience was included and was great. Snorkelling off the beach is amazing, so many fish - you can see them without even getting in the water. Would highly recommend this trip!

Hello, Thank you for your comment. We are delighted that you had a pleasant time on the Amedee Island even though you did not come with the MARY D. We hope to welcome you soon, MARY D team

Spent a wonderful day at Amedee Lighthouse with The Mary D. The whole experience was very well organised - from the hotel pickup, boarding the boat (including welcome musicians on the dock) and the boat ride was very comfortable. A very relaxing little island, with good facilities such as cafe and deck lounges and chairs. The highlight was the lunch - a very plentiful supply of salads, meats, fresh fruits, desserts, wines, cocktails. There were a lot of people to feed, but it was very well organised. Didn't think the food would be as good as it was - very happy with it. The water is stunning - swam with a turtle, saw some lovely tropical fish. Only downside was that the free snorkel gear that's available was pretty poor quality and goggles get fogging up, so would recommend you take your own gear. Overall the experience was wonderful, and was a very enjoyable and well organised tour.

We visited Amedee Island two days ago and thoroughly enjoyed the day from start to end. Hotel pick up by bus, charter to Amedee which took about 45 mins, glass bottom boat tour, buffet lunch with cultural dance show, Amedee Lighthouse climb. The snorkelling was great. We swam with five turtles that day and numerous fish. You have to swim out a bit to the coral to experience the best fish but there are still heaps near shore as well. There were a lot of tricot raye sea snakes around on shore and swimming in the water. I saw about 8 that day. I don't like snakes at all but I braved it out because my goal was to swim with sea turtles. The snakes are timid and are more scared of humans so will leave you alone. They are quite beautiful to look at. There was a lot of glass and cigarette butts around. We picked up a lot to keep the place clean. Staff are great and look after you well. I loved the cultural experience, the singing, dancing and ukulele playing. We even got a taste of home with a lady doing the Māori poi dance, tino pai! Nga mihi Amedee staff for a great day. My little whanau had a blast!!!

The Tchou Tchou Train

Take a guided orientation tour of the city and resort area as well as the best viewpoint of the peninsula on the 'yellow Tchou Tchou train' (wheeled trolley). The train passes by the local market and heads to the beautiful bays of Noumea and stops at Rocher à la Voile. Head to Anse Vata Bay, perfect for water-sport lovers and with breathtaking views of the blue lagoon and surrounding islands at Ouen Toro lookout point. Continue towards the Promenade Pierre Vernier, the popular coconut-lined waterfront and the five-star flagship Meridien Hotel. Then, visit Faubourg Blanchot, one of Noumea’s oldest residential districts, and the central shopping district, beautiful Coconut Square.

Wear comfortable warm-weather clothing and walking shoes. Bring a hat and adequate sun protection. Please fill your water bottle before leaving the ship. Please check for special arrangements with the destinations staff on board if you are using a scooter or wheelchair / walker.

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Noumea, New Caledonia Shore Excursions

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Snorkel the Pacific on Adventurous Noumea Shore Excursions

You might not have heard of Nouméa, New Caledonia just yet, but you will. It’s a memorable port of call on any South Pacific cruise leaving from Australia or New Zealand , even affectionately nicknamed  the “French Riviera of the Pacific”. You’ll want to stroll the beach and enjoy French-inspired menus at quaint bistros throughout this capital city.

You’ll know there’s something special about Nouméa as soon as you catch sight of the signature white bungalows dotting the shoreline from resort isle Îlot Maître. You might also stop at Îlot Maître for snorkeling and swimming, too, since it’s just a 15-minute boat ride away from the city.

Nouméa shore excursions range from educational to thrill-seeking, like the City of Nouméa Museum for a peek at the extensive Kanak history of the island. The Centre Culturel Tjibaou is a cultural center dedicated to the indigenous Kanak people of Nouméa and features rotating exhibits. The building’s architecture in the style of a traditional Kanak hut is the perfect photo op. You just might stumble upon concerts or cultural festivals at the town square, Place des Cocotiers. Families will love the Aquarium of the Lagoons, where you’ll learn about the tropical fish species (and turtles!) swimming in the South Pacific waters.

In Nouméa, take a relaxed stroll along Rue Clemenceau to meet local vendors and see their wares. Shoppers also love Anse Vata outside Îlot Nouméa for luxury or designer items and handmade goods at Galerie du Palm Beach and La Promenade.

Boat tours and water taxis take often take you to multiple destinations, like Anse Vata, which is the best place to windsurf on the island. Snorkeling the coral reefs of the area is part of the fun on Nouméa cruise excursions, and nearby islands are easily accessible via boat.

If you like heights, the top of Amédée Lighthouse is less than an hour’s boat ride from Nouméa and promises the best views of the city from the top. If you’re feeling more adventurous, your adrenaline will rush during a canopy adventure where you will climb and tackle obstacles on a tour of Koghi's Forest.

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