Making the most of Mare
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Cruise ship passengers will be tendered to Tadine, the main town on Mare.
Printable map to take along.
Mare is the most southern of the Loyalty Islands but also the highest. It is fringed with very ragged cliffs and you will also find inlets of fine sand. The central plain is made up of numerous caves as well as natural swimming pools dating back to the time of the old lagoon...
The main village on Maré is Tadine, it's a peaceful little port village. Visitors are warmly welcomed but are expected to respect the local tribal customs.
Attractions on the island include the natural aquarium about 1.2 miles from Tadine toward Eni. It's a beautiful pool with translucent waters.
You can also take a swim at the water hole in Eni, just as you enter the village on your left.
Food and shopping
New Caledonia is very expensive, since much of the food needs to be imported. There is no culture of bargaining either and attempting such might cause offense.
Money
Currency CFP franc (XPF
Staying connected
Official languages French
English, and Japanese are widely spoken at hotels, restaurants, and shops
Opening Hours and
Shopping hours: Mon-Fri 0730-1100 and 1400-1800, Sat 0730-1100