Amedee Lighthouse

If you’re considering a day trip from Noumea that combines stunning scenery, engaging activities, and a touch of Melanesian culture, the Amedee Lighthouse tour might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear that this is a well-loved experience. It’s particularly appealing if you’re after a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural entertainment—all in a beautiful setting.

What we really love about this tour is how it provides a full-day escape to a tiny, almost untouched island, complete with lighthouse views and underwater views via glass-bottom boat. Plus, the inclusive lunch, drinks, and entertainment mean you can enjoy the day without constantly reaching for your wallet. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that entry to the lighthouse isn’t included in the standard ticket, and weather can impact some activities, especially snorkeling.

This trip suits travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day on a picturesque island, especially those who love water-based activities and cultural shows. Families, couples, or anyone seeking a taste of island life with plenty to see and do will find this experience hits the right notes.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with boat transfers, lunch, drinks, and entertainment.
• Popular among travelers, with a high 94% recommendation rate and over 280 reviews.
• Diverse activities like climbing the lighthouse, glass-bottom boat tours, and cultural performances.
• Weather-dependent, especially for snorkeling and outdoor parts of the trip.
• Good value for money considering the variety of included features.
• Limited lighthouse entry fee (~$2.50), so plan accordingly if that’s a priority.

Exploring Amedee Lighthouse: What to Expect

The Amedee Lighthouse tour is a thoughtfully curated full-day outing from Noumea. It starts early in the morning with hotel pickups—most likely from central accommodations—and then heads to Port Moselle Harbour to board the boat that will take you to this tiny paradise. The entire journey lasts roughly 8.5 hours, offering plenty of time to enjoy every aspect of the island.

The Journey to Amedee Island

The day kicks off around 7:45 am with a pickup from your hotel, making it convenient for most travelers, especially if you’re staying in or near Noumea. The transfer is by comfortable boat, and the ride offers scenic views of the lagoon. This part of the experience sets the tone, with many reviews highlighting the smooth, well-organized transportation and the friendly crew.

First Stop: The Iconic Amedee Lighthouse

Once on the island, many travelers’ first instinct is to head straight to the Amedee Lighthouse. Climbing the 247 steps is a highlight—offering a breathtaking panorama over the lagoon and surrounding reef. It’s a bit of a workout, but the stunning vistas are worth every step. Keep in mind, the admission ticket to visit the lighthouse isn’t included in the main price, costing around $2.50 per person, so budget accordingly.

From the top, you’ll get a picture-perfect view of the turquoise waters, coral reefs, and the tiny island itself. Several reviews praise the lighthouse for its spectacular views, with one reviewer calling it “the perfect spot for a photo.” However, some mention that the climb can be physically demanding, so it’s best to be prepared if you’re not into heights or have mobility concerns.

The Glass-Bottom Boat Adventure

Next on the agenda is a 30-minute glass-bottom boat tour. This activity is included in your ticket and is one of the tour’s standout features. The boat allows you to peer directly into the water and observe coral formations, sea turtles, colorful fish, and other marine life without getting wet.

Travelers consistently rave about how crystal clear the water is and how much they enjoyed seeing the reef from this perspective. One review describes it as “a day out on the reef,” emphasizing how it offers a close-up view of underwater life that’s accessible even for those who aren’t comfortable snorkeling.

Lunch and Cultural Entertainment

After the underwater adventure, it’s time to relax and refuel with a buffet lunch featuring local fresh produce. The all-you-can-eat meal includes drinks like wine, beer, orange juice, and house punch, making it a leisurely affair. Many reviews highlight the quality and abundance of the food, with one reviewer saying, “the lunch provided is super delicious,” and noting that there’s plenty to satisfy even hearty appetites.

While eating, you’ll enjoy a Pacific dance show, adding a cultural touch to your day. The lively performances, colorful costumes, and rhythmic dance moves give a glimpse into the island’s Melanesian traditions, and many visitors find these shows “beautiful” and entertaining.

Additional Activities and Relaxation

The day includes a 30-minute snorkeling option (equipment rental is an extra $9), but some reviewers have expressed disappointment if weather conditions prevent snorkeling—like windy days or poor visibility. One guest noted that snorkeling equipment quality was not ideal and that they missed out on snorkeling due to safety concerns. It’s worth noting that the beach can sometimes be less inviting due to erosion or debris, especially after storms, but many still find it a beautiful spot for relaxing on lounge chairs or taking a swim.

Other amenities include lounge chairs and the chance to simply unwind and soak up the scenery. The tour staff are generally praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, often going above and beyond to make sure guests are comfortable.

The Experience and the Reviews

The glowing reviews paint a pretty clear picture: this is an organized, enjoyable day that delivers on its promises. Travelers consistently mention the friendly staff, delicious food, and spectacular views. Multiple reviewers describe their day as “fabulous,” “spectacular,” and “one of the best trips of their life,” emphasizing how accessible and well-run the tour feels.

One reviewer raves, “From hotel pickup to drop off, we had the best day,” highlighting the convenience of the transportation and the smooth logistics. Others appreciate the cultural performances, describing the dances as “beautiful” and “entertaining,” adding a layer of authenticity to the island experience.

The cost of $183.18 per person is generally seen as reasonable considering the included features—boat rides, lunch, drinks, entertainment, and the lighthouse visit. Many reviews agree that it’s good value, especially when compared to the cost of organizing similar activities independently.

Downsides to Keep in Mind

While most reviews are glowing, a few mention some limitations. The beach conditions can vary, and sometimes snorkeling gear might be in less-than-perfect condition, which can be frustrating if snorkeling is a main reason for going. Also, weather can impact the experience, especially the snorkeling activity. On windy or rainy days, some parts of the tour might be compromised, and no substitute activities are always offered.

Plus, the lighthouse visit isn’t included in the base price, meaning a small extra fee. The facilities on the island could also use some maintenance, and announcements are mostly in French, which might be confusing for non-French speakers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for those who want a full-day adventure with a mix of water activities, cultural entertainment, and scenic views. It’s perfect for first-time visitors to New Caledonia or travelers looking for a stress-free way to explore the lagoon without worrying about logistics. Families, couples, or groups who enjoy snorkeling, sightseeing, and cultural shows will find plenty to love here.

If you’re after a relaxed, all-inclusive day with options for swimming, climbing, and culture, this trip ticks the boxes. Just be prepared for the weather and know that certain activities like snorkeling may be weather-dependent.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, select hotel pickups and round-trip boat transfers are included, making it a convenient way to get to the island without extra hassle.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8.5 hours, from pickup in the morning to return in the late afternoon.

Can I climb the lighthouse?
You can climb the 247 steps for spectacular views, but note that the admission fee to visit the lighthouse isn’t included in the ticket ($2.50).

What is included in the price?
The tour includes boat transfers, a buffet lunch with drinks, a glass-bottom boat ride, cultural shows, lounge chairs, and the opportunity to climb the lighthouse.

Is snorkeling included?
Snorkeling equipment can be rented for $9, but the activity is weather-dependent, and some reviews mention gear quality issues.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, water, and perhaps a rain jacket if the weather looks uncertain. You might also want to bring cash if you plan to rent snorkeling gear or buy souvenirs.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the data doesn’t specify, the activities like lighthouse climbing and boat rides are generally family-friendly, but consider weather and physical activity levels if traveling with young children.

Final Thoughts

The Amedee Lighthouse tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day in one of New Caledonia’s most beautiful spots. With its spectacular views, cultural performances, and relaxing amenities, it appeals especially to travelers keen on water-based activities and scenic sightseeing. While weather can influence parts of the experience, most reviews highlight how the overall day surpasses expectations, delivering good value and memorable moments.

If you’re looking for a stress-free, all-inclusive way to see Amedee Island, this tour is a solid choice. It balances adventure and relaxation, making it suitable for a broad range of travelers who want to soak in the beauty of the lagoon while enjoying local culture and cuisine.

Make sure to check the weather forecast before booking and consider whether snorkeling is a priority, given some of the mixed feedback on gear and conditions. With careful planning, this trip is likely to be a highlight of your time in New Caledonia.