General Information
Area: 14,912-square miles.
Language: The official language is French.
Population: 269,736
Capital City: Noumea
Religion:Sixty percent of the people of New Caledonia are Roman Catholic and thirty percent are Protestant. New Caledonia protects the freedom of religion and belief and applies the same laws on the Separation of the Churches and State
Health: No vaccinations are required to travel to New Caledonia, but it is advisable to be up to date with universal vaccination: diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, and hepatitis B. Between December and April, mosquitoes can transmit Dengue Fever, which requires a medical consultation. Protect yourself with repellents. There is no major tropical disease to report. At the beach, watch out for coral cuts. Shells like cone shells, and fish like stonefish or lionfish can be poisonous, so do not touch. If you dive, beware of the “tricots rayés” (black and white sea snakes).
Government: New Caledonia is a self-governing territory of France. The government is based in parliamentarism and representative democracy. The President of the Government is the head of government.
Currency:The currency of New Caledonia is the CFP Franc (French Pacific Franc). It has a fixed equivalent parity to Euro. 1 Euro is equal to 119.33174 cfp
Electricity: The standard voltage on all yachts is 12 volts. In order to use electronic equipment that is 240v you will need an inverter suitable for use in a cigarette lighter.
Arrival & Customs
On Arrival: Your yacht will be ready at 12:00 pm for boarding, but we recommend you call the base prior to arrival as your yacht may be available to board earlier. All boats are prepared as per the booking for boarding time. Everyone will receive an individual yacht and chart briefing. This will take up to 2 hours so they need to allow plenty of time. It is not permitted to leave without adequate briefing.
These are carried out individually for each yacht and are mandatory. The chart brief describes the cruising area and any potential hazards. A one week chart briefing takes about 30 minutes and a two week briefing about 45 minutes to one hour so allow plenty of time. The yacht briefing introduces you to your yacht and its systems and rigging. It is important that all systems and equipment are fully understood.
Customs: You will have the opportunity to visit Kanak tribes. The Kanak culture is a very rich culture and one of the traditions is “the customary gesture.” This custom takes place when entering a tribe for the first time. A simple and sincere gesture will be appreciated. (“manou”/sarong, a 500 cfp note and/or rolling tobacco).
Provisions & Beverages
A fantastic range of Food and Drinks packages which can be pre-ordered and will be on your boat when you arrive. Provisioning is available in this location.
Climate
Cooled by the Pacific Ocean and trade winds, New Caledonia enjoys a soft, sunny climate. From the central mountain range to the warm tropical waters, visitors will discover an impressive assortment of plants and animals.
Money
You will be able to withdraw “cfp” notes from ATM machines at the airport and all banks in town. You will be able to exchange currency at the airport and in several banks in town. Most of Banks are open Monday to Friday and close at around 3:00 pm. Most of the big stores and hotels accept credit card payment, but not small restaurants on the Loyalty Islands, please make sure you have some local currency. Duty free shops at the Airport and in Nouméa.
Marina Facilities
Facilities adjacent to the base include: Overnight accommodation, Restaurants, Bars, Selection of shops, Bank, Post Office, Laundry, Showers, Toilets, Electricity.
