Snorkeling Amedee Island from Noumea: Turtles & Coral Reefs

You snorkel without a stinger suit year-round in waters where turtles swim alongside you.

A full-day snorkeling trip from Noumea to Amedee Island, a protected marine reserve 45 minutes by water taxi offshore. You swim and snorkel self-guided in the lagoon from 10 AM to 3 PM, with safety instructions from the skipper. The island's 56-meter lighthouse is open some days for a separate fee. National park entry and the water taxi transfer are included. Snorkel equipment is not.

Step-by-step itinerary

Full day trip to Amedee Island

• 9 AM depart Noumea by water taxi
• 10 AM arrive on Amedee Island
• Swim with turtles and snorkel coral reefs
• Climb lighthouse if open
• 3 PM depart Amedee Island
• 3:45 PM arrive back in Noumea

The experience

The day starts at 9 AM from Port Brunelet Gate E with a 45-minute ride on an uncovered inflatable boat. Bring sunscreen and cover-up clothes, as the sun exposure is direct. You land on Amedee Island at 10 AM and have five hours to swim and snorkel in the lagoon's clear water. The skipper gives safety instructions before you enter. If you need a mask and snorkel, they're available. Experienced swimmers can venture out to spot turtles and explore the coral reefs. Less confident swimmers can stay in shallower water to watch colorful fish and coral formations close to shore.

The lighthouse, the only metal lighthouse in France, stands 56 meters high with 247 steps to the top. It opens on certain days managed independently, so access is not guaranteed during your visit. If it's open, you pay 300 XPF (about 2.50 EUR) directly on the island to climb it. The return boat departs at 3 PM and arrives back at Port Brunelet by 3:45 PM.

The water taxi transfer and national park fees are included in the price. You'll need to bring your own swimwear, towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and comfortable walking shoes. Food and drinks are not provided, so pack what you want for the day. The boat ride can be bumpy, and the activity suits guests under 70 in good physical condition who are comfortable swimming in open water.

What’s included

• National park entry and water taxi transfer from Port Brunelet in Noumea.
• safety instructions and snorkel guidance from the skipper.
• access to the island's beaches and lagoon for five hours.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 09:00

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (13 to 70 years) · Child (2 to 12 years) · Infant (under 2): free

GroupUp to 12

Live guideEnglish and French

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Paid on siteUS$ 2.84

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Dalocean Charter - Day Tours

Is this one for you?The six-hour round trip leaves your morning free and gets you back by late afternoon, so you can fit it into a day that includes time in Noumea before or after. You need to be an experienced swimmer comfortable in open water to get the most from the snorkeling. If you're less confident in the water, you can still enjoy the shallow reefs and fish near shore.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and French.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (2 to 12 years); Infant (under 2): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Can I snorkel at Amedee Island without a stinger suit?

Yes. The protected lagoon at Amedee Island is safe for snorkeling year-round without a stinger suit. The skipper provides safety instructions before you enter the water, and snorkel equipment is available if you need it.

Will I see turtles when I snorkel at Amedee Island?

Turtles swim in the lagoon, and you have a good chance of seeing them if you're an experienced swimmer comfortable in open water. The skipper can point you toward areas where they're often spotted, but sightings are not guaranteed.

What time does the water taxi leave Noumea, and when do I get back?

The water taxi departs Port Brunelet Gate E at 9 AM and returns by 3:45 PM. You have five hours on the island, from 10 AM to 3 PM, to swim and snorkel.

Is the lighthouse visit included in the price?

Entry to the island and the national park are included, but climbing the 56-meter lighthouse costs 300 XPF per person, paid directly on the island. The lighthouse opens on certain days managed independently, so access is not guaranteed during your visit.

What should I bring for a full day on Amedee Island?

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and comfortable walking shoes. The boat is uncovered, so sun protection is essential. Food and drinks are not provided, so pack what you'll need for the day. Snorkel equipment is available on-site if you don't have your own.

Is the boat ride rough?

The water taxi is an uncovered inflatable boat, and the 45-minute ride to the island can be bumpy. Wear clothes that protect your skin and apply sunscreen before boarding. The return journey is the same.