Sailing to New Caledonia

A map of the best ports and anchorages

New Caledonia

New Caledonia boasts one of the world’s largest lagoons, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The sheltered waters are a playground for sailors, offering endless opportunities to explore secluded coves, remote islets, and vibrant coral reefs. The indigenous Kanak heritage, European influences, and diverse Pacific traditions come together to create a unique cultural diversity. In 1788, the French explorer Jean-François de Galaup, comte de La Pérouse, disappeared after leaving Botany Bay, Australia, headed toward New Caledonia. For decades, the fate of his expedition remained one of the great unsolved mysteries of the age of exploration.

Leeward Coast

The west coast of New Caledonia shelters from prevailing easterly winds and offers smoother sailing conditions. Nouméa, the capital, serves as a key sailing hub with extensive infrastructure supporting a diverse fleet of vessels. Facilities include the Port Moselle Marina, which provides comprehensive services for sailors, contributing significantly to the local economy.

Windward Coast

Contrastingly, the east coast of New Caledonia faces the open Pacific and is subjected to the full force of the trade winds. This area offers challenging sailing with more vigorous conditions and fewer ports of refuge. For those willing to tackle its challenges, the east coast delivers spectacular natural beauty, with lush landscapes and rich Kanak culture. The Isle of Pines, in the southeastern part of New Caledonia, is particularly renowned for its natural pools and pristine environment.

Sailing season in New Caledonia

New Caledonia enjoys a tropical climate moderated by the ocean. It is warm and sunny with a marked difference between the wet and dry seasons.

May to October

The main sailing season extends from May to October, marked by cooler and drier conditions. During this period, the southeast trade winds, known as the “alizé,” take center stage.
These steady winds provide reliable propulsion, guiding sailors through the picturesque Pacific waters with ease.

November to April

Come November, a transition occurs as the “vent du nord”, or northerly winds, become more prominent and the warm rainy season begins.
This marks the beginning of the off-season, with the northerly winds prevailing until April.

Visa & Immigration

Official website for visas to France:

https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/web/france-visas/home

FAQ