Madison Boatworks · video

What this video covers

Jonathan and Whitney arrive in New Caledonia aboard their boat after a squally passage from Fiji, dock at the marina in Noumea to receive customs officials, and use the layover to repair a damaged jib.0:21 Sailing south from Noumea, they navigate a reef passage aligned with a mountain bearing on the main island, anchor at Amadei Island — notable for abundant but docile sea snakes — and visit the first metal lighthouse built by the French, constructed in Paris, lit in 1865, and shipped to New Caledonia in pieces.5:08 An anchorage becomes untenable after a wind shift, forcing an early departure.10:21 Nickel strip mining has left erosion scars across the island, with mine tailings depositing onto coral reefs below.11:51 A water stop outside a harbor entrance substitutes for the boat's absent shower.13:20 Weather shaping up for the passage to Australia cuts the cruise short; the crew clears customs, immigration, and the port captain in Noumea in a single day, tops off water and provisions, and prepares to depart.12:36 The upcoming leg to Australia will be their longest and most challenging Pacific crossing yet.15:54

More from Madison Boatworks

23 | Sailing Australia's East CoastMay 202522 | A Boisterous Passage Across the Western Pacific, New Caledonia to AustraliaNov 202413 | A Voyage Through the Tuomotu ArchipelagoFeb 2023

From Madison Boatworks — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analyzed video.

The Sailing Directory Newsletter

One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.