New Caledonia celebrates the resumption of cruise stopovers in Lifou after protests

Lifou Island, New Caledonia
Edited by Travel Weekly


Cruise stopovers have returned to New Caledonia, including Lifou, following the political protests that began in May in the lead-up to French elections.

The arrival of the National Geographic cruise ship at the port of Easo, Lifou on Friday 18 October marked a decisive step towards stabilisation and a return to normality, New Caledonia Tourism said.

“After several months of halted cruises and disrupted international traffic, this event highlights New Caledonia’s ability to recover and offer visitors a warm, safe welcome,” it said.

“The return of cruises is a very positive sign for all those within New Caledonia’s tourism and cruise industries, representing a crucial step in reassuring our outbound markets.”

Before riots which blocked the city streets, and saw buildings set on fire, New Caledonia received more than 125,000 international tourists and 340,000 cruise ship passengers in 2023. The territory drew 24,000 Australian tourists in 2023, half of neighbouring Vanuatu at 51,000), and a fraction of the number of Australians visiting Fiji at about 390,000.

The New Caledonia Tourism office said the reopening of the cruise market in the French Pacific territory had been made possible by the collective efforts of local, institutional and customary authorities, along with cruise operators and tourism partners.

“This milestone, which will be followed by further stopovers in Nouméa and Lifou this November, reflects a shared desire to boost the local economy, especially in the islands, where tourism, and cruises in particular, play an essential role in showcasing New Caledonia’s natural and cultural heritage.

“New Caledonia Tourism extends its gratitude to all the partners involved in this recovery and will continue implementing its strategy to safeguard and enhance New Caledonia’s international image.”

Feature image: Cruise stopovers have returned to New Caledonia, including Lifou pictured.

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