Noumea, New Caledonia - Australia & New Zealand Cruises

As you begin your panoramic island drive you will drive south through the main city of Moselle. You will see historical landmarks and colonial buildings before arriving in the more modern Baie de l’Orphelina with many luxurious yachts berthed in the marina.

Continue south and see two of Noumea’s spectacular beaches, the very European Baie des Citrons where clothing is optional and tree fringed Anse Vata which is a paradise for watersports lovers.

Ouen Toro Lookout is the perfect place to take photos and absorb stunning views of the world’s largest lagoon. From here, you’ll gain an excellent view of the bays and beaches, across the lagoon to small marine reserve islands with fringing coral reefs. Drive to Fauberg Blanchot, the old colonial quarter of the city to the Notre Dame du Pacifique, this lookout is dominated by a statue of Virgin Mary which is illuminated at night

Enjoy a taste of France as you visit a local restaurant where you will have the opportunity to sample a selection of French wines and cheeses before returning to the ship.


This excursion is mainly by coach with very little walking. The order of this tour may vary depending on local conditions.

Board the ‘Little Trolley Train’ and take a panoramic drive up to the Notre Dame du Pacifique lookout point for spectacular views over the city.

You’ll see military barracks built over 100 years ago, charming Faubourg Blanchot, which is one of Noumea’s oldest neighbour hoods with its enchanting old colonial homes.

The grand Promenade Pierre Vernier is lined with tall coconut palm trees and edges the waterfront and is reminiscent of the South of France.

You will then make your ascent to the lookout at Ouen Toro, where a panoramic view of the blue lagoon and neighboring islands awaits you and your camera. Enjoy a glass of cider and local pastries while soaking up the natural beauty.

Next, it’s on to Anse Vata Beach, a true paradise for watersports enthusiasts, and Lemon Bay, a favourite getaway for visitors and locals alike. You will see the Yacht Club, Orphelinat Bay and the Southern Province Government House.

Finally, you will drive through the Place des Cocotiers – Noumea’s lively shopping centre. Here, you may choose to alight the ‘Little Trolley Train’ and peruse the many shops and boutiques. The ship is a 10 minute walk away, or, you may remain on the train and return to the ship.


This tour will operate by trolley train and on foot. Guests must be able to negotiate the step onto and off the Trolley Train and a few steps at the look-out. Guests on the last departure will not be able to remain in town at the end of the tour.

You will take a panoramic drive through the city centre of Noumea in an air-conditioned coach. Along the way your guide will highlight various landmarks including the typically French architecture and South Pacific culture.

Your first stop will be Parc Forestier, the park overlooks the city of Noumea at an elevation of 548 feet and covers 85 acres, of which 20 acres are open to visitors. In addition to flora and fauna this Park has ponds and lakes, and is home to a large variety of wild and domestic birds.

In the company of your guide, set off at an easy pace along well-marked, level walkways through this peaceful sanctuary offering a natural look at the flora, together with the animal and bird-life of the South Pacific. Among the many species you may see is the Cagou, a flightless bird that is the symbol of New Caledonia, with a call often mistaken for that of a barking dog. After your tour, you’ll be offered a light refreshment before you return to the ship.



This tour will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately two hour’s total walking on this tour. Please wear flat, comfortable shoes.

Enjoy a panoramic drive through the city centre and the park ‘Place Cocotier’, which winds its way up to the FOL lookout point for a photograph stop where you will see the rolling hills of the city, the main harbour and your ship docked at the passenger terminal.

Next, you’ll continue along the picturesque Promenade Pierre Vernier, and up to Ouen Toro lookout. From this vantage point at the tip of the peninsular, which is also home to a dignified World War II memorial, you’ll have an excellent view of the bays and beaches, across the lagoon to the small marine reserve islands with their fringing coral reefs.

Your last stop is the newly refurbished ‘State of the Art’ new Aquarium of Noumea, where water is pumped from a nearby lagoon. Naturally lit tanks house a variety of marine life ranging from dainty sea horses, colourful tropical fish to sea turtles, stingrays and reef sharks. Pass through the ‘black light room’ where you can discover outstanding fluorescent coral and you‘ll see a live, nautilus shellfish, a species which have survived unchanged for millions of years.

Return to your ship via the Orphelinat’s Bay and Port Moselle.

This tour will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately one hour’s total walking on this tour. US$ and AUD$ will not be accepted in the Aquarium gift store.