Yachts heading for New Caledonia must clear in at Noumea, but there is now a welcome update which makes weekend arrivals much easier, as advised by Richard Chesher from Rocket Cruising Guides.

Published 1 week ago

Good news for yachts clearing into New Caledonia

All yachts heading for New Caledonia must clear in at Nouméa and most yachts do so at Port Moselle Marina.  But now there’s a welcome update that makes weekend arrivals much easier says Richard Chesher from Rocket Cruising Guides.

While official clearance is only available Monday to Friday (since customs, immigration, and the marina office are closed on weekends), Port Moselle is now accepting advance bookings and assigning berths ahead of time.

“This means if you arrive over the weekend, instead of anchoring out or tying to a mooring at Ilot Maître with your yellow Q flag up, you can now head straight into your pre-assigned berth at the marina,” he said.

“Just call  the marina on VHF Channel 67 as you approach.  Marina security only has a handheld radio, so they’ll likely respond when you’re approaching the marina.The security team will help you tie up and alert Biosecurity, who’ll already have been informed of your arrival and will swing by to clear the yacht.

“Once that’s done, the crew is free to step ashore, stretch their legs, enjoy a cold one at the Boute du Monde restaurant and bar, or freshen up with the hot showers and shore facilities.

Complete Entry Formalities on Monday

“On Monday morning, the skipper can then complete entry formalities with a visit to the marina office to complete formalities with customs and immigration. Simple, smooth, and sailor-friendly!”

However, Richard stressed that weekend clearance by Biosecurity is ONLY for yachts that have reserved a marina berth at Port Moselle Marina.

“If a boat arrives and anchors out on a weekend with the yellow Q flag up, they will have to wait till Monday to clear in with officials,” he confirmed.

“Skippers should also note that there is no charge, even on weekends for Biosecurity clearance. Immigration and Customs also do not charge.”

…………………………………

Related Links:

• New Caledonia Entrance Formalities
• Rocket Cruising Guides

…………………………………

© 2025 Noonsite. This content was edited by Noonsite. Do not reproduce without permission. All rights reserved.

The opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not reflect the view of http://Noonsite.com or World Cruising Club. [only add if relevant]

If you have found this information useful, become a paid member to enjoy unlimited use of Noonsite plus many other perks. Your membership fees really help our small, dedicated team keep country information up-to-date in support of cruisers worldwide. Find out more about Noonsite Membership levels and benefits here.

Subscribe to our FREE monthly newsletter: https://www.noonsite.com/newsletter/