Cruise Information & Useful Contacts

In New Caledonian waters, including Grande Terre, the Loyalty Islands, the Isle of Pines and the outer islands, approved marine pilotage is compulsory for vessels over 60 metres in length. Pilotage and towing fees are payable directly to the towing company and the pilots’ union. Certain conditions allow exemptions for large yachts between 60 and 80 metres in length.

The Nouméa port of call, managed by the Port Autonome de Nouvelle-Calédonie (P.A.N.C.), offers full services to visiting ships. Ships have easy access to fuel, high-quality drinking water and supplies directly from the quay. Bunkering operations comply strictly with international safety standards. In addition, a compulsory shuttle service ensures easy access to the Gare Maritime during every cruise call.

In Nouméa and the islands, more than fifteen tour operators and excursionists offer over fifty tailor-made excursions, in English and French, for groups or private tours. Water and land-based activities, visits to the city with its beaches and surrounding islets, immersion in Kanak culture and tribal life on the islands… On our cruise web portal for the general public, you can find the list of our tours as well as exclusive discounts in shops and restaurants for cruise passengers.

The role of the customs department is to help cruise lines with all customs formalities. It offers simplified procedures while ensuring compliance with current regulations. Passengers from various countries, including Australians, New Zealanders, Americans, EU citizens and Japanese, among others, are exempt from visa requirements during their stopover, provided they meet specific conditions. Foreign visitors must be in possession of a passport valid for at least three months after their visit to New Caledonia. Crew members are subject to the provisions of the London Convention, depending on their status.

Cruise ships benefit from a 50% reduction on entry fees, payable only on the first port of call in New Caledonia, and there are no berthing fees in Noumea. It should be noted, however, that tariff regulations will gradually evolve over the next few years, notably with the introduction of a cruise tax to support the development of the sector in New Caledonia.

New Caledonia has introduced strict phytosanitary rules to protect its various animal and plant species. The disposal of food waste on arrival is strictly prohibited, while other types of waste may be disposed of on a case-by-case basis, subject to the approval of the biosafety authorities, after due notification.

As a safe destination, New Caledonia has strong health and safety standards, comparable to those of leading developed nations. In addition to the hospitals and clinics of Greater Noumea, the territory has a well-established network of dispensaries and security services equipped to deal with immediate emergencies. Air support, including fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters, ensures rapid response throughout the region should the need arise.

New Caledonia serves as a hub for the islands of the South Pacific, with convenient air links provided by airlines such as Aircalin, Qantas and Air New Zealand. These airlines offer direct flights from major destinations, including Australia, Fiji, New Zealand, Singapore, Vanuatu and French Polynesia, making it easy for teams to rotate and travel.

New Caledonia is well equipped to accommodate small and medium-sized cruise ships, saving travellers several days at sea. With convenient air access and a wide range of accommodation, passengers from all over the world can easily visit the archipelago before embarking. What’s more, its unique natural and cultural diversity means there are plenty of captivating stopovers in its lagoon, and its proximity to neighbouring destinations means it can be easily incorporated into extended cruise itineraries.