You’ll find the Isle of Pines just off the coast of New Caledonia when you take a cruise that leaves from Australia or New Zealand, and Isle of Pines is a South Pacific destination you won’t easily forget. Unlike other stops, Isle of Pines is remote and unfettered by tourist traps. You’ll still find plenty to do, but you’ll feel far away from the troubles of the outside world here. Isle of Pines just might feel like your own private island.
The indigenous population, the Melanesians and Kanaks, live on Isle of Pines, and these 3,000 residents control and maintain the area. Though Isle of Pines is a French territory and you may catch hints of French influence, residents make sure the island retains its rich cultural and historic roots.
The island is surrounded by colorful coral reef, a top priority for locals to conserve and protect. Cruise ships will tender their passengers to the island via small boats. When booking Isle of Pines shore excursions, you could spend your entire time here learning about the abundant natural beauty of the island. Book a sailing trip along St. Joseph Bay, or swim along Kanumera Bay. Scuba diving excursions and lessons are available with trained professionals at Kunie Scuba Centre, where you’ll likely find turtles, schools of fish, and plenty of caves to explore underwater.
On your next Isle of Pines shore excursion, check out the Prison Ruins located a short walk from Kuto Bay, which acted as a penal colony in the 19th century. Walk in the steps of harrowing history among unmarked graves and slowly decaying ruins. Need more speed while on this relaxed island? Rent your own car or bike to see the island on wheels.
Other Isle of Pines cruise excursions you might try are a boat ride to the secluded Moro Island for snorkeling its clear waters and local species for a guided tour, or a scenic tour ending at Vao Village and the area’s Our Lady of the Assumption Church, built in 1860. Oumagne Grotto is Isle of Pines’ most famous attraction, where dramatic stalagmites and stalactites loom overhead and a stream runs in the near distance.
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