New Caledonia
Oceanic Pacific: one of the worlds longest barrier reefs and the Loyalty Islands
Overview
New Caledonia is a ribbon of land with a mountainous spine, covered in rainforest on the west side and savannah on the east. The west coast is protected by one of the longest barrier reefs in the world, and the area within provides idyllic cruising.
The Loyalty Islands, 100 km to the northeast of the main island of Grande Terre, are remote and rustic - bring gifts for the village chiefs. New Caledonia is governed by France, and the capital, Noumea, is a well-appointed city with quality restaurants, shopping and, most importantly, excellent provisioning.
Port Moselle has a proper marina and marine facilities are generally good. The wet season runs from December to March, when cyclones can occur, so the cooler dry months are preferred for cruising.
Cruising & Map
Map Key - Marinas & Islands
- Port Moselle (Noumea); VHF 67
- Port du Sud Marina (Noumea)
- Isle of Pines
- Lifou (Loyalty Islands)
✈ La Tontouta International Airport
One of the world's longest barrier reefs. Please follow the Code of Anchoring in Reef Environments (CARE).
Getting There & Clearance
Clearance
Clearance is handled by the French territorial immigration and customs authorities. The port of entry is Port Moselle at Noumea (VHF 67), which also offers a full-service marina and provisioning.
Government Contacts
Immigration: dtenc.gouv.nc
Marina: sodemo.nc
International Airports
La Tontouta International · Noumea Magenta (domestic).
Key Anchorages
Noumea (Petite Rade, Orphanage Bay) · Isle of Pines · Lifou & the Loyalty Islands.
Local Services
Agents
Port Moselle Marina Office · Noumea Yacht Services
Marinas
Port Moselle · Port du Sud
Diving
Abyss Plongee
Cruising
The lagoon & barrier reef
Provisioning
Noumea (excellent)
Islands
Isle of Pines · Lifou
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do superyachts clear in to New Caledonia?
The port of entry is Port Moselle at Noumea, on VHF 67, handled by the French territorial immigration and customs authorities. Port Moselle also offers a full-service marina and excellent provisioning.
When is the best time to cruise New Caledonia?
The cooler dry months are preferred. The wet season runs from December to March, when cyclones can occur, so that period is best avoided.
Where do superyachts cruise in New Caledonia?
The west coast lagoon, protected by one of the longest barrier reefs in the world, offers idyllic cruising, along with the Isle of Pines to the south and the remote Loyalty Islands such as Lifou to the northeast.
Are there any anchoring rules in New Caledonia?
Yes. Visiting yachts are asked to follow the Code of Anchoring in Reef Environments (CARE) to protect the lagoon and barrier reef, and to bring gifts for village chiefs in the Loyalty Islands.