New Caledonia: French flavour, South Pacific allure

Chartering either of the superlative luxury motor yachts available in this region, MASTEKA 2 or IROUE, is an inspired choice for exploring this island paradise, as many of the most fascinating atolls and islets are accessible only by boat.

New Caledonia is an island group just 3,290 km (2,044 miles) or around two hours' flight from Australia's east coast. Cooled by the Pacific Ocean and trade winds, these islands enjoy a spring-like climate all year round and is blessed with fascinating and unique flora and fauna, particularly in its waters which teem with marinelife.

Once you begin your charter, you will discover a water wonderland that will dazzle even the most seasoned travellers. New Caledonia is home to the world's largest lagoon, a shimmering azure expanse which covers approximately 14,912-square miles (24,000-square kilometres), and a massive barrier reef which is 994 miles long (1,600 kilometres).

Thousands of fish, marine mammals and birds are native to this region. The wonderful marine biodiversity of New Caledonia is one of the reasons the lagoon has been listed as a World Heritage Site.

New Caledonia is made up of islands – the main island of Grande Terre, Loyalty Islands, Isle of Pines, Belep and 400 others within easy cruising distance.

Nouméa, New Caledonia’s capital located on Grande Terre, is a cosmopolitan city whose waterfronts are lined with bars, cafes, restaurants, and nightclubs. It’s a fantastic place from which to start your luxury charter, with all the allure of the French Riviera, blended with laid-back island charm.

A must-see in Noumea is Le Centre Culturel Jean Marie Tjibaou, representing the heart and soul of Kanak culture. The museum was designed by award-winning architect Renzo Piano, and the traditional Grand Hut is just as impressive. Visitors can enjoy guided tours and cultural performances which convey the diversity and depth of this colourful land.

Ilot Laregnere and Ilot Signal are two of the islands which are UNESCO World Heritate sites and close to Noumea. Both are remarkable for the diversity of sealife and fantastic dive sites.

Duck Island or Ile aux Canards has a popular beach and plenty of water activities. It is an excellent snorkelling site, with underwater fish identification charts illustrating the myriad fish that are easy to spot – parrotfish, clown fish, butterfly fish, angelfish, turtles, morays, rays and coral in every conceivable colour.

A blend of 'Kanak' (the indigenous Melanesian inhabitants of New Caledonia) and French culture, enhanced by Polynesian and Asian influences, New Caledonia offers the charter guest a world of traditions, customs and cultures.

Captain James Cook claimed the island for Britain in 1774. The rugged coastline in parts reminded him of Scotland so he named it New Caledonia in honor of the land of his father's birth.

Both France and Britain settled the group of islands in the early 19th century. Today, New Caledonia is a self-governing territory of France and much of its appeal lies in the gourmet food and wine, French architecture, boutiques, culture and traditions that are retained with great pride.

New Caledonia has 300 days of sun. Temperature average around 60F (16°C) degrees on cold winter days, and 89F (32°C) degrees on warm summer days.

The best time to charter in New Caledonia is between the months of May and November when the temperature is also ideal for charter guests to take advantage of the onshore activities such as horse riding and hiking..

Crystal clear and clean, the sea tempts charter guests with a pleasant temperature all year round. It averages between 77F and 84F (25 and 29°C) from November to April. The rest of the year it drops between 71F and 75F (22 and 24°C). Whale season is between June and September, during which time charter guests can be assured of spectacular sightings of the mighty marine mammals.

MASTEKA 2 is the only foreign-flagged superyacht with a charter license in New Caledonia. 

This 122ft (37m) luxury charter yacht has all the creature comforts with all new equipment and amenities onboard, including electronics, entertainment system, water sports equipment and new swim platform for enjoying the warm, tropical cruising grounds of this idyllic paradise.

The expansive deck space, including the massive aft deck for alfresco meals, 8-person Jacuzzi on the bridge deck level at the bow and great free-flowing layout make her an excellent choice for charter – whether for families or groups interested in cultural immersion, adventure or pure relaxation. Onboard are five well-appointed cabins for up to 12 guests in sheer luxury, with a calm, neutral interior.

One of the only other yachts available for a luxury charter vacation in New Calédonia is the 24.8-metre Ferretti-built IROUE, laden with family-friendly features.

Charter guests aboard IROUE can soak up the sun as they cruise the azure waters of Noumea and the Isle of Pines on the forward sunpad or enjoy tropical sunsets with cocktails in the spacious flybridge. The aft deck is set up for meals and socialising and flows through to the comfortable saloon and dining area within. Inside, IROUE is beautifully maintained and well appointed and can accommodate eight guests in four staterooms.

To book your New Caledonia charter aboard MASTEKA 2 or IROUE, please get in touch with the charter experts at Luxury Charter Group.

For further details about New Caledonia