Sail somewhere NEW
Beautiful New Caledonia is the third largest archipelago in the Southern Pacific, after Papua New Guinea and New Zealand, located near the tropic of Capricorn, between 19° and 23° latitude South and between 158° and 172° longitude East, approximately 1,500 km from the East coast of Australia - level with Townsville and Mackay.
It is also home to the largest lagoon which stretches over an area of approximately 24,000 square kilometres, and is surrounded by a 1,600 km coral reef, which provides an exceptional environment, not only because of its sheer size, but also its variety and beauty. In fact, this large reef, with its calm, clear waters, is home to many unique varieties of endemic tropical fauna and nearly 2,000 different kinds of fish.
Here you will find everything that a sailor could need. According to yachtsmen who come here from around the world the quality of the mooring options is excellent, and many of the sites are virtually untouched.
Sailing on a catamaran allows you to cover more territory with the reduced draught of your vessel. A motor boat or cruiser can take you to places even a catamaran cannot access. And a charter boat with an experienced skipper allows you to get more out of your sailing holiday because long crossings can be made at night.
New Caledonia features several modern marinas which can accommodate yachtsmen in the most comfortable conditions - from the very largest yacht to the most modest boat. There are quay or mooring facilities in Nouméa, Wé (Lifou), Hienghéne or Koumac. In Nouméa, marinas are located near the vibrant city market, restaurant district, cyber cafes, the post office as well as the entertainment precinct.
For those who don’t wish to criss-cross the lagoon on board their own boat, there are several other ways to discover the lagoon and its small islands at your own pace - you can hire a boat or taxi boat, or explore further with an excursion at sea.
The Native Pirogue is a traditional outrigger sail boats known as pirogues ply the turquoise waters of the Isle of Pines. Their timber construction and inverted triangle sails make for a romantic journey among the palms, pines and rock outcrops. The island's landscape is amongst the most spectacular in the Pacific and a pirogue tour is a must for all visitors. Expeditions from a few hours to a full day can be arranged through resorts.
