New Caledonia

Sailing west from Fiji we arrived in New Caledonia after two days.  New Caledonia is made up of several small volcanic islands.  It is a French protectorate similar as is Puerto Rico to the US.  The indigenous population, the Kanak, are not altogether happy about this arrangement and have fought many civil wars to gain independence.  New Caledonia is a major exporter of nickel, probably why the French have been reluctant to relinquish control of New Caledonia.  We had two port stops in New Caledonia.   

Noumea – The island of Grande Terre is the main island with its capitol, Noumea, a very modern city.  We spent our day learning about the Kanak culture and had a wonderful tour of their cultural center.   

Isle de Pins – This island is a small island of incredible beauty.  Kanumera is its main city on the Kuto peninsula. The Norfolk pine trees are predominate throughout the island along with dense tropical foliage.  The people are friendly.  The beaches were the best we have seen so far including those of French Polynesia.  It was a place of unexpected beauty.  We spent the day thoroughly enjoying the beach and the water.