Amedee Lighthouse

Thinking of escaping the buzz of Noumea for a day of sun, sea, and scenery? The Amedee Lighthouse tour offers a chance to experience the beauty of New Caledonia’s most iconic island. From breathtaking views atop the lighthouse to vibrant marine life seen through the glass-bottom boat, this trip blends adventure, culture, and relaxation into one well-rounded package.

What we love about this tour is how it combines several highlights into a single day: the climb up the historic lighthouse for panoramic lagoon vistas, the chance to snorkel and see colorful coral and turtles, and the lively cultural entertainment. Plus, the all-inclusive meals, drinks, and lounge amenities make it feel like a proper getaway.

One thing to keep in mind is that the lighthouse visit costs an additional fee of around $2.50, which might catch some by surprise if not prepared. Also, the beach and snorkeling conditions can vary—some reviewers mention erosion and debris, so don’t expect a postcard-perfect beach at all times. This trip is best for travelers craving a mix of scenic views, cultural touches, and easy access to a tropical paradise.

It’s ideal if you’re looking for a full day of activity without losing comfort or convenience, especially if you enjoy learning about local Melanesian culture, exploring marine life, and climbing to high vantage points. Families, couples, or solo travelers eager to soak in New Caledonia’s stunning landscape and vibrant marine ecosystem will find this tour a great fit.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: From lunch, drinks, to cultural shows, everything is arranged for a hassle-free day.
• Stunning Views from the Lighthouse: Climbing 247 steps rewards you with panoramic lagoon vistas.
• Marine Adventures: Glass-bottom boats and optional snorkeling provide close-ups of coral reefs and sea turtles.
• Cultural Entertainment: Melanesian dance performances add a lively, authentic touch.
• Convenient Transfers: Hotel pickup and boat transfers simplify logistics.
• Value for Money: With multiple activities, meals, and transport included, the price reflects a comprehensive day out.

The Itinerary in Detail

Morning Pickup & Transfer to Amedee Island

The journey begins early, with hotel pickups around Noumea starting at 7:45 am. This is a big plus for travelers who dislike the hassle of organizing transportation—your day starts smoothly with a comfortable drive to Port Moselle Harbour. The boat ride to Amedee Island is approximately 30 minutes, giving you a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and anticipation of island adventures.

Stop 1: Climbing the Amedee Lighthouse

The lighthouse, standing 247 steps tall, is a highlight for many. From the top, you’ll get breathtaking views of the lagoon—a scene that many reviewers describe as spectacular. One guest mentioned how the view from the lighthouse was “brilliant,” and it’s easy to see why. The climb isn’t overly strenuous, but be prepared for a bit of a workout if you’re not used to stairs.

Note that admission to visit the lighthouse costs around $2.50, a small fee that’s not included in the tour price. Still, most find the cost worth the reward of the sweeping, unspoiled vistas over crystal-clear waters and islands dotting the horizon.

Stop 2: Glass-Bottom Boat Tour

Next, you’ll hop onto a 30-minute glass-bottom boat ride—a favorite activity for many. This boat tour reveals the colorful coral reefs and sea life just beneath the surface, providing a window into the underwater world without needing to snorkel. Reviewers loved seeing turtles and vibrant fish, with one saying, “you can see many turtles and colorful fish,” which is a real highlight.

The clarity of the water and the convenience of seeing marine life from a boat make this a memorable experience, especially for those who might be apprehensive about snorkeling or don’t have gear. The boat is described as modern and comfortable, making it a pleasant ride.

Stop 3: Lunch, Culture, and Relaxation

After working up an appetite, guests are treated to a delicious all-you-can-eat buffet lunch featuring local produce. During lunch, drinks such as beer, wine, orange juice, and house punch are included—perfect for sipping while enjoying the tropical setting. Several reviews praised the quality and abundance of food, with one guest calling it “well-organized and delicious.”

Following the meal, enjoy a lively Pacific dance show at the restaurant. The performers’ energetic traditional dances add an authentic flavor to the day, and many reviewers mention how enjoyable and engaging the show was. One described it as “fantastic,” emphasizing the cultural richness of the experience.

Additional Activities and Free Time

Guests can also opt to climb the lighthouse for even more sweeping views, or take a snorkel (for an additional $9) to explore the reefs more closely. Keep in mind that some reviews pointed out the snorkeling gear was “terrible,” so bringing your own (if allowed) might enhance your experience.

The island has lounge chairs and shaded areas for relaxing after activities, although the beach itself might not always match the postcard images—erosion and debris have impacted some beaches, as noted by reviewers. Still, the serene surroundings and chance to see turtles and tropical fish make up for it.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour is quite comprehensive with lunch, drinks, the glass-bottom boat, cultural show, and boat transfers included, making it a good value considering the number of activities packed into the day. The lighthouse visit** has a small extra fee, and snorkeling gear can be rented for $9 if desired.

Not included are entrance fees to the lighthouse (about $2.50), and snorkeling equipment if you prefer to bring your own or rent from elsewhere. Breakfast and drinks on the boat aren’t part of the package, so plan accordingly if you’re an early riser or want a quick snack before departure.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Wear comfortable shoes for the lighthouse climb—stairs can be narrow, and the view is worth the effort.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat; the sun is strong, especially during the climb and midday.
• Snorkeling gear can be rented, but quality varies—consider bringing your own if possible.
• Arrive early at Port Moselle Harbour to avoid rushing and to experience the smooth pickup.
• Cash or card? The small lighthouse fee is usually paid in cash, so have some ready.
• Weather considerations: The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to storms, you’re offered a different date or a full refund.

Authentic Experiences and Review Highlights

The reviews paint a picture of a mostly positive experience, with many travelers raving about the friendly staff and delicious food. Guests loved the chance to see marine life up close, with one stating, “the snorkeling and glass-bottom boat viewing turtles, sea life, and fish exceeded expectations.”

The cultural show received praise for its authenticity and lively performances, with one guest noting, “the traditional dance was fantastic.” The lighthouse offers a “brilliant view,” according to many, making the ascent worth the effort.

Some travelers mentioned minor issues, such as debris on the beach or limited English announcements, but these didn’t overshadow the overall positive impression. The modern boat transfer and smooth organization also contributed to many saying it was “well worth the price.”

The Sum Up

This full-day tour to Amedee Island strikes a good balance between adventure, culture, and relaxation. The combination of climbing the iconic lighthouse, exploring marine life in the glass-bottom boat, and enjoying local cuisine makes it a well-rounded experience. The included entertainment and comfortable logistics make it particularly appealing for travelers wanting a hassle-free day in paradise.

While the beach conditions can vary, the overall vibe of the island—vivid sea life, stunning views, and lively cultural performances—more than compensates. It’s perfect for those seeking a scenic escape with a touch of local flavor, especially if you’re eager to see spectacular vistas and meet friendly guides.

If you love nature, vibrant marine ecosystems, and cultural shows, this trip is an excellent way to spend a day in New Caledonia. Just pack your camera, a good hat, and your sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from select hotels around Noumea, starting at 7:45 am, which simplifies planning.

How long is the boat ride?
The transfer to Amedee Island by boat takes approximately 30 minutes, giving you time to relax and enjoy the ocean breeze.

What is the cost to visit the lighthouse?
The lighthouse visit costs about $2.50 per person and is not included in the main tour price.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Yes, snorkeling is available for an extra $9, with gear rental. However, some reviews mention the snorkeling equipment is of mixed quality, so bring your own if possible.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes for climbing, along with sun protection like sunscreen and a hat, are recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it family-friendly, especially those interested in scenic views, marine life, and cultural performances.

How much time do we spend on the island?
You’ll have approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes on the island for lunch, shows, and optional activities, with additional time for the lighthouse and boat trips.

Are drinks and meals included?
Yes, the buffet lunch, drinks (beer, wine, orange juice, house punch), and coffee/tea are included.

What about weather cancellations?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to storms or poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people typically join?
The tour can accommodate up to 188 travelers, so it’s a lively but well-managed group size.

This trip to Amedee Lighthouse offers a delightful mix of scenic views, marine adventures, and cultural insights—perfect for travelers who want a memorable day soaking in the natural beauty of New Caledonia.