The ship docked at Noumea's container wharf, across from the bay where we could see a major open cut mine, that produced the country's main export, Nickel. The ship ran a free shuttle bus from the ship to the passenger terminal, 10 minutes away. This is due to the fact passengers can't walk through the busy area.
I have been here several times before but had never gone on the Tchou Tchou Train, so decided this would be a good option for our visit. We boarded the train alongside the ship which then made our way through the containers and out the gate. The train drove along several esplanades and marinas. Our guide explained the number of boats in Noumea equals the same number of people living there. a lot of boats. We past Orphelin Bay (Bay of Orphans), Citron Bay (Lemon Bay) where most of the cafes and restaurants are found. We stopped at a hotel for a refreshment of a cordial drink and small (tiny) piece of mango cake. Then travelling past the famous aquarium in Anse Vata Bay and old Club Med before the train drove up one of the peaks on the island. On the way we passed the island's race course which has an attractive lake in the middle of the course. From the lookout we could see 'Duck' Canard Isl., not far from the coast. There are two huge WW11 guns placed to protect the island from the Germans and Japanese. the lookout, Ouen Toro is perfect to view Noumea, even Amedee Lighthouse could be seen on the horizon.
We then traveled past old colonial homes in one of the city's oldest residential districts to Notre Dame du Pacifique lookout for another perspective of Noumea.
Before returning to the ship the train took us past the coconut square in the centre of town.
Race course with lake in the middle
I found your comment and it makes for a nice read. We will look forward to the next one.
ReplyDeleteCheers A & K