Hienghene - Babou Côté Océan

Located 8 km south of the village of Hienghène, Babou Côté Océan is situated in the heart of the Koulnoué tribe. The centre sits on a large, shaded plot of land right on the edge of the lagoon, providing a direct connection to the water. It has been operating since 2000, offering a personalised approach to diving and marine activities.

The surrounding lagoon is a UNESCO World Heritage site, providing a vast playground for divers and snorkelers alike. The centre's position allows for easy access to the local reefs and the nearby islet, which features both a marine trail and a botanical path.

The team is composed of professional instructors holding BEES, DE, or OWSI qualifications. They provide guided dives with a ratio of one guide for every single diver, ensuring close supervision and safety.

As a member of the Association Nationale des Moniteurs de Plongée (ANMP) and the Nouvelle Calédonie Plongée association, the centre adheres to professional standards. All instruction and boat operations are carried out by qualified professionals, including certified pilots for the marine excursions.

The centre provides a full range of diving certifications through the French national system. You can work through Niveau 1, Niveau 2, and Niveau 3 training programmes, which include both theoretical instruction and a specific number of required dives.

For those looking to re-enter the water after a break, adaptation dives are available. The centre also offers introductory dives for those looking to experience the underwater world for the first time.

The centre operates two 8-metre fast boats specifically designed for diving and sea excursions. These vessels allow for efficient transit to the various sites around the Hienghène lagoon.

On board, you will find essential amenities including a cabin, water, tea, and coffee. Safety is prioritised with a first aid kit, VHF radio, GPS with chart readers, and a mobile phone available on every trip.

The centre maintains a well-equipped facility with a dedicated equipment room and a filling station. They stock 50 steel cylinders with a capacity of 230 bars. For those needing to hire kit, a full range is available including wetsuits, regulators, BCDs, fins, and masks, with equipment from Aqualung and Bersub.

Shore-based facilities include changing rooms and a spacious, comfortable reception area. For those choosing to stay on-site, there is a camping area with sanitary facilities including showers and toilets.

The lagoon is a vibrant ecosystem with a variety of life to observe. You will find diverse coral formations and reef structures that support a wide range of resident species.

Macro life enthusiasts can look for various small crustaceans and invertebrates tucked into the reef. The area is well-suited for observing the smaller details of the marine environment during both guided dives and snorkeling excursions.

The centre is located in a protected marine area, which generally provides a sheltered environment for diving and snorkeling. The proximity to the lagoon and the coastline means that many of the sites are easily accessible by the 8-metre fast boats.