Exploring Nouméa: A Day of Shore Excursion to the WWII and Maritime Museums

Nouméa, an active cruise port, welcomed us with open arms, setting the stage for an exciting day filled with shore excursions. The port's industrious nature required strict regulations, with exclusion zones ensuring passenger safety before buses transported us to our respective excursions. Among the tempting options were the Choo Choo train, the Hop On Hop Off bus, and a convenient shuttle to the Old Ferry Terminal for those eager to explore independently.
While waiting for our cruise ship to dock, I couldn't help but notice the contrasting opinions about the port's aesthetics. Some passengers deemed it unattractive, but I couldn't help but ponder the port's significance to the Pacific islands. These bustling ports, despite their industrial appearance, serve as the lifeblood of these island nations, facilitating trade and economic growth. Colonization, a complex historical chapter, played a role in shaping these regions, and although it had negative consequences, it also drove economic development.
As I prepared for my first excursion, a visit to the World War II Museum and the Maritime Museum, I meticulously checked my essentials: money, passport, sunglasses, and a reliable power pack for my phone. Additionally, I packed an extra coat and a poncho, just in case the weather decided to take a turn for the worse. Most importantly, I ensured that my Shore Excursion ticket was within easy reach. This vital piece of paper held crucial details about the date, location, meeting point, and time for my excursion.
At the World War II Museum in Nouméa, I received an iPad, that allows me to access information in English. This museum, housed in an old warehouse, primarily showcased French perspectives on the war. While there was some English information available, the comprehensive collection told a captivating story of the war's impact on the Pacific islands. Exhibits featured local Polynesian populations, medals, medical equipment, and even recreated settings to provide a glimpse into the daily lives of soldiers during that period.
Despite its relatively small size, the museum presented a wealth of information through interactive displays, videos, and headphones. Visitors could immerse themselves in the experiences of wartime, even simulating the view from a bomber aircraft. The artifacts on display included items donated by individuals, highlighting the ongoing importance of preserving this history. The guide also shared intriguing insights, such as the presence of Japanese residents of Hawaiian descent who were interned during the war.
The strategic significance of Nouméa during WW II, as a pivotal American outpost with a constant flow of soldiers. The horrors of war were acknowledged as the sacrifices that ultimately secured freedom.
The Maritime Museum. This smaller museum was divided into two floors and offered a 45-minute exploration of maritime history. On the lower floor, I encountered dioramas illustrating historical vessels and a display of artifacts salvaged from shipwrecks. These artifacts included beads, coins, crockery, cutlery, bottles, and light fixtures, shedding light on the daily life of sailors and passengers.
One aspect that struck me was the emphasis on child-friendly sections within the museum, fostering interactive learning through maritime-themed games and activities. The Maritime Museum celebrated the crucial role of maritime trade in the region, ensuring the islands' connectivity and economic development. Navigational tools and lighthouse equipment were on display, reminding me of the vital role these played in ensuring safe maritime passage.
The museum also touched on the exploration of the islands, from French explorers to Captain James Cook. It showcased various cultural influences, including the French naval uniform, and offered glimpses into the daily lives of sailors and explorers. Despite some elements of warfare on display, the museum primarily focused on the mundane aspects of life at sea, offering a unique perspective.
The second floor of the Maritime Museum was dedicated to the tragic story of the Monique, a Vietnamese ship that mysteriously vanished with 126 souls aboard while traveling between Nouméa and Mare Island. The museum conveyed the profound emotional impact of this loss through a continuous soundtrack that played a song titled "The Silence of the Sea." This eerie tale underscored the mysteries that still haunt these waters.
My book HANDY CRUISE COMPANION, Cruise with Confidence is available on Amazon bit.ly/HandyCru...
Check out my website www.julescruise...
Follow me on Facebook / julie.burgess.5011
Follow me on Instagram www.instagram....
Edited by VideoGuru:videoguru.page...
Copyright JCC

[@judithlinnett2256]

Thank you for sharing Jules. I really enjoyed this video. I will definitely put both these places on my bucket list. Hopefully we can all return soon to Noumea. 😊

[@julescruisecompanion]

Noumea is fabulous. It's important that everyone's rights are respected. Hopefully, all issues will resolve quickly.
Happy Cruising ❤️ 🛳