Looking to escape the buzz of Noumea for a day? This tour whisks you away to Amedee Island, a tiny slice of paradise in New Caledonia’s lagoon. For just over $180 AUD per person, you’ll enjoy a blend of scenic views, underwater wonders, and Melanesian culture, all wrapped into an approximately 8.5-hour adventure. Starting early with a hotel pickup, the trip includes a comfortable boat ride, making the journey as relaxing as the destination.
What we really love about this experience is the chance to climb the iconic Amedee Lighthouse for one of the best views of the lagoon, and the inclusion of a delicious buffet lunch with local flavors, drinks, and lively entertainment. The glass-bottom boat tour is another highlight, offering a peek into the vibrant underwater world teeming with sea turtles and colorful fish. One small consideration? The lighthouse visit costs an extra $2.50, which is quite reasonable but worth noting if you’re on a tight budget.
This tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of nature, culture, and comfort—families, couples, or anyone looking for a well-organized day without the need to plan every detail themselves. If you’re after an authentic experience that balances sightseeing with leisurely enjoyment, this trip ticks all those boxes.
Key Points
- Stunning Views: Climb the lighthouse for panoramic lagoon vistas.
- Underwater Exploration: Glass-bottom boat tour showcases vibrant marine life.
- Cultural Entertainment: Melanesian dance performance adds local flavor.
- All-Inclusive Meal: Buffet lunch includes drinks and local cuisine.
- Convenient Transfers: Hotel pickup and boat transfers included.
- Authentic Atmosphere: Friendly staff and well-organized schedule.
An In-Depth Look at the Amedee Lighthouse Tour
If you’re wondering whether this trip is worth your time and money, let us walk you through what makes it special—and what might be less ideal—based on honest reviews and detailed itinerary insights.
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The Journey Begins: Pickup and Boat Ride
Your day starts early, at around 7:45 am, with a hotel pickup in Noumea. For most travelers, this means a hassle-free start without having to worry about taxis or public transport. The transfer to Port Moselle Harbour is straightforward, and from there, you board a large, comfortable boat. The ride to Amedee Island offers a relaxing 45-minute cruise across the lagoon, providing beautiful views of the coast and sparkling waters.
The boat trip is generally praised for its comfort and reliability, with reviews highlighting the professional and friendly crew that makes the journey pleasant. The boat’s spaciousness means even during peak times, most travelers find room to relax, sip drinks, and enjoy the scenery.
First Stop: The Amedee Lighthouse
The lighthouse is the star attraction. Standing 247 steps tall, it offers breathtaking views of the lagoon and beyond. Climbing up is a good workout, but the payoff is worth it—many reviewers mention the spectacular photo opportunities and the chance to see the island from above.
Note: The lighthouse visit costs $2.50 per person and is not included in the tour price. Still, considering the views and the chance to stand where lighthouse keepers once worked, many find the small fee well worth it.
From the top, you’ll see the crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and tiny islands, making it a perfect photo spot or a peaceful moment of reflection amid natural beauty.
Underwater Highlights: Glass-Bottom Boat Tour
Next, you’ll hop into a glass-bottom boat for a 30-minute excursion. This is perhaps the most popular part of the day, and for good reason: the underwater world here is vibrant. Expect to see turtles, colorful fish, and coral formations that are often described as breathtaking.
Reviewers like Sarah mention, “Fabulous buffet lunch with drinks and entertainment. A lot of fun in the glass-bottom boat viewing turtles, sea life, and fish.” This activity is a fantastic way to see marine life without getting wet and is especially appreciated by those who aren’t keen snorkelers but still want to experience the lagoon’s richness.
Relaxing and Cultural Hours: Lunch and Dance Show
After the underwater adventure, it’s time for lunch—a buffet featuring local produce, with all-you-can-eat options. During the meal, you can enjoy drinks like wine, beer, orange juice, and house punch included in the ticket price, which many reviews highlight as generous and well-organized.
The meal is more than just sustenance; it’s an experience. Many reviewers, including Niels and Malcom, rave about the delicious food and the opportunity to enjoy a Pacific dance performance afterward. The show adds a lively, cultural touch, giving you a glimpse into local traditions.
Leisure Time and Beach
Following lunch, you have about 1 hour and 15 minutes to relax. Lounging on beach chairs or strolling around the island, you’ll find plenty of space to unwind. Some reviews note that the beach can be quite windy and not ideal for swimming, especially if weather conditions are less than perfect. Plus, the beach has been affected by tropical cyclones, leading to some erosion and debris, which the organizers are working hard to clean.
Additional Activities and Considerations
While the main activities are well-covered, you can opt to snorkel for an extra $9 or explore further. However, some reviewers have expressed frustration over snorkeling equipment quality and the limited beach access, so it may not satisfy serious snorkelers.
If you’re keen to climb the lighthouse and snorkel, be prepared for extra costs and time. The lighthouse climb is brief but rewarding, while snorkeling can be added if you’re willing to pay extra.
Authentic Experiences Based on Reviews
The overall tone from past travelers is overwhelmingly positive. Many highlight the staff’s friendliness and professionalism, with some noting the crew went above and beyond to ensure a smooth and enjoyable day.
Sheryl describes her day as “Absolutely fabulous,” emphasizing the “magnificent island and crystal clear waters,” and praises the staff’s attentiveness. Others mention the delicious buffet and lively entertainment as high points, turning this into more than just a sightseeing trip but a cultural experience.
However, not all reviews are perfect. A few mention poor beach conditions and less impressive snorkeling gear, which can be disappointing if you’re expecting pristine beaches and top-notch equipment. Yet, these are often attributed to recent weather events rather than the tour itself.
Group Size and Practicalities
With a maximum of 188 travelers, this tour maintains a lively but manageable atmosphere. Most reviews suggest the group size feels just right—large enough to be social but not overwhelming. The pick-up process and organized schedule make it easy to relax and focus on enjoying your day.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for families and couples looking for a well-rounded day in a stunning setting. If you enjoy photo opportunities, marine life, and cultural shows, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s also suited for those who prefer a hassle-free, all-in-one package—no need to worry about transportation or meal planning.
On the flip side, if you’re seeking untouched beaches or serious snorkeling, you might find the beach access limited or the gear subpar. Still, for most travelers craving a relaxing yet active day, this tour hits the sweet spot.
Final Thoughts
The Amedee Lighthouse tour offers a worthwhile blend of scenic beauty, underwater discovery, cultural entertainment, and good food. Its well-organized nature and inclusive price point make it a reliable choice for anyone visiting Noumea wanting a taste of tropical paradise without the hassle of organizing every detail.
The lighthouse climb provides a memorable perspective on the lagoon, while the glass-bottom boat highlights the vibrant marine life that makes this part of the world so special. The lively dance show and hearty buffet add authentic touches, turning this experience into a true celebration of Pacific culture.
While the beach might not be perfect every day, the overall experience—thanks to friendly staff, stunning views, and a well-curated itinerary—remains highly recommended.
This trip is best suited for travelers who value comfort, cultural authenticity, and scenic variety. If you want to spend a full day exploring a tropical island, enjoying local food, and taking in spectacular sights, this tour is a smart choice.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from select hotels in Noumea, making the start of your day smooth and stress-free.
How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride to Amedee Island takes about 45 minutes, offering nice views and a comfortable journey.
Can I climb the lighthouse?
Yes, you can climb the 247 steps of the lighthouse for a small additional fee of $2.50. The view from the top is highly praised.
What activities are included?
The tour includes a 30-minute glass-bottom boat ride, a buffet lunch with drinks, a dance performance, and a visit to the lighthouse.
Is snorkeling available?
Yes, snorkeling can be arranged for an extra $9, but some reviews mention that equipment quality and beach conditions might be less than perfect.
What are the lunch options?
A generous buffet with local produce, with beer, wine, orange juice, and house punch included.
What is the size of the group?
Up to 188 travelers, providing a lively yet manageable experience.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely yes, especially because of the gentle activities like the boat ride, cultural shows, and beach time. Check with your provider for specific age restrictions.
What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, possibly a hat and sunglasses, and a camera. The beach may be windy, so a light jacket or cover-up can be helpful.
Whether you’re after a scenic lighthouse view, underwater encounters, or just a relaxed day on a beautiful island, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of what Amedee Island has to offer. It balances adventure with comfort, making it a solid pick for a memorable day in New Caledonia.