Discover whale watching
Whale watching center of Cap N'DuaUnderstanding whale watching?
Whale watching center of Cap N'DuaThe humpback whale, an iconic species of the Coral Sea Natural Park, is among the largest creatures on Earth. Recognisable by their black bodies and long pectoral fins underneath, humpback whales embark on an extraordinary journey from mid-July to mid-September. They travel over 8,000 kilometres from Antarctica to the warm waters of New Caledonia’s lagoon for breeding and calving, before their return to sub-Antarctic feeding grounds. The season typically starts with females, followed by older and younger individuals, and eventually, males. Approximately fifty humpback whales are spotted each year during this period. Whale watching allows you to observe them without causing any disturbance, primarily from boats, but also from a few designated observation points on land.
When I hear the whales' breath...
And witness their leaps in the distance, my heart melts as if I’ve just uncovered the ocean’s greatest secret. I experience this spectacle every year during the humpback whales’ mating season in the refreshing 23-degree coolness of the Caledonian lagoon.
Where to observe whales in New Caledonia?
In Nouméa
Dolphins in the lagoon of New Caledonia
Whales in the South Lagoon
Catamaran trip in the New Caledonian lagoonDolphins in the lagoon of New CaledoniaWhales in the South LagoonYou might be fortunate enough to spot mothers and calves passing close to Nouméa, either from the mainland or while taking a water cab to islets near the capital, such as Phare Amédée. To enhance your chances of encountering these magnificent creatures, consider joining a day cruise in the southern part of Grande Terre departing from Port Moselle. Alternatively, you can rent a catamaran for an extended cruise spanning several days, optimising your whale watching opportunities.
In the Great South
Whale watching in the South LagoonThe sheltered bays of the Great South are well-known as prime whale-watching locations. Join specialist operators on a guided day trip to witness humpback whales. These curious creatures might treat you to an unforgettable display, including somersaults and striking their caudal or pectoral fins. If you prefer to stay on land, head to Cap N’Dua, a two-hour drive from Nouméa, to learn about and observe whales from the shoreline. The site features an observation centre equipped with binoculars and informational panels for visitors.
Did you know?
Humpback whales measure around 14 metres and weigh an average of 30 tons.
In the Islands
Cliffs of Jokin, LifouHumpback whales often pass along the jagged coasts off the Loyalty Islands or the Île des Pins, making it possible to observe them from the beach, the shoreline, on walks that offer beautiful viewpoints or even by chance on a sea outing. From the cliffs of Jokin in Lifou or the terraces of Shabadran in Maré, watch for the breath of the humpback whale on the horizon.
Frequently asked questions about whale watching in New Caledonia
