Stories of the South Seas

Journey to the spectacular South Pacific with Paul Gauguin Cruises and be forever changed

Discover the Feeling of
the South Pacific

There’s no feeling quite like the moment you set eyes on the shores of a South Pacific island, where sugar-white sands are marked only by swaying palm fronds and thatched bungalows. Aboard m/s Paul Gauguin, discover exotic islands such as Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea and feel pure awe, wonderment and tranquility. Effortlessly access these tropical islands and motus (islets) that larger ships can’t reach in a vessel that is purpose-built for the shallow waters. Experience the generous warmth of the locals, the thrill of exploring remote jungles and the relaxation of spending a night in an overwater bungalow resort. Discover how you can make French Polynesia part of your story.

Indulge Your Curiosity

Let us introduce you to a place where ancient culture meets youth and freedom. Here are just a few Paul Gauguin excursions we recommend.

Snorkeling

The waters off of Aitutaki in the Cook Islands offer some of the best snorkeling in the South Seas. We’ll set up your excursion on a small boat that carries you from the ship to Motu Maina, one of the 22 islands in the Aitutaki atoll, for a two-hour swim among exotic marine flora and fauna. Float above the famous giant clams and surface near the nesting area of red-tail tropicbirds in the island’s marine reserve.

Jeep Safari

Adventures on the island of Bora Bora await: take an exhilarating ride in an off-road vehicle, venturing deep into the jungles and hidden lookouts overlooking the turquoise lagoon. Catch a glimpse of World War II cannons left by the U.S. military and power your way up into the lush hills along rugged trails.

Black Pearl Farm

Explore the treasures of Taha’a, one of Tahiti’s Society Islands, at the Poerani pearl farm nestled in the island’s shallow lagoon. Arrive by motorized outrigger canoe to learn about the jewels produced inside the native black-lipped oyster. Marvel at the rarest pearls' peacock green luster before plunging into the same waters that grow these Tahitian gems.

InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa

Helicopter Flightseeing

Let us arrange an unmatched view of Bora Bora on a 30-minute helicopter tour over the island’s picturesque lagoons and vivid reefs. Your pilot shares a new perspective of the heart-shaped atoll of Tūpai and the thatched-roof bungalows suspended above the sea. Then, circle the protruding peak of Mount Otemanu imbued with Polynesian mythology surrounding the highest point in Bora Bora.

Picnic in Paradise

Explore the flavors of Tahiti with an island barbecue on a private motu formed of coral and sand. Begin your day by picking out the perfect beach chair under a palm. Then feast on traditional fare such as poisson cru — a Tahitian specialty of raw fish marinated in lime and coconut milk paired with an ice-cold Hinano, the local brew. After lunch, learn to tie the traditional pareo (sarong) worn by locals and harvest coconuts from the palms that dot the island. Delve into the Tahitian culture with this exclusive experience only available aboard Paul Gauguin French Polynesia itineraries.

Ambassadors of the Environment

Come summertime, families will delight in Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment Youth Program, highlighting immersive excursions to connect young travelers with the wonders of French Polynesia. Meet the local sea turtles, explore coral reefs and tour ancient temples known as marae as part of this complimentary experience.

Experience Sumptuous Comfort

Welcome aboard — where new faces become lasting friends, where you stay at the table long after the meal is finished and where wonder and dreams are fulfilled.

The Veranda Suite (Category A) on The Gauguin.

Return to the comfort of the 332-passenger m/s Paul Gauguin to relish your time at sea. A butler caters to your every wish, from unpacking your luggage to arranging a private soirée with canapés in your Veranda Suite, a spacious cabin offering endless views of the tranquil seas and tropical shores.

Deep Nature Spa by Algotherm

Enjoy special privileges on select sailings, such as a shipboard credit that you may use toward shore excursions, onboard shopping and a Polynesian-influenced spa treatment using traditional techniques and locally sourced ingredients.

Also available on select sailings are our exclusive and limited hosted sailings. Enjoy a complimentary private cocktail reception and a gracious host who elevates your voyage aboard the elegant and luxurious m/s Paul Gauguin.

La Veranda

Find the same Polynesian flair in the ship’s three open-seating dining venues, where meals, fine wines and select spirits are always included in your fare. Michelin-starred Chef Jean-Pierre Vigato places his signature stamp on the cuisine served al fresco at La Veranda, and dine at the casual Le Grill, where Polynesian specialties comprise the menu. Specialty dining and room service are also included!

Every day brings delightful and unexpected encounters with the Polynesian culture when you're traveling with your own group of Gauguines.

Follow dinner with an evening at Le Grand Salon to see a troupe of Tahitian entertainers regale with ancestral dances daily. These performers and the rest of the Gauguines — local Tahitians who serve as cruise staff, entertainers and storytellers — bring Tahiti’s unique personality to every sailing and ensure your complete comfort.

For lovers of the underwater world, embark on optional SCUBA excursions and enjoy some of the best snorkeling on Earth. Plunge into the translucent waters of the South Pacific, teeming with underwater life. Or enjoy the surface of these coveted waters directly from the retractable watersports marina, where you’re free to paddleboard, windsurf or kayak. These complimentary amenities are also yours for the taking when you partake in private beach experiences in Bora Bora or on Paul Gaugin Cruises' own private islet, Motu Mahana.

Extend Your Stay

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Once you’ve been introduced to the indescribable feelings that are so deeply connected to French Polynesia, we know that you won’t want to leave. Let us extend your stay in this magical land of sand and warmth where the power of every natural element exists in perfect unison. Lose yourself in a luxurious spa treatment at the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalassa Spa or watch dolphins play in the tropical lagoon at InterContinental Moorea. We are here to help you stay in paradise — both before and after your cruise — as long as you desire.

Create Your Own Story in French Polynesia

Paul Gauguin Cruises perfectly illuminates the South Pacific. It brings to life the centuries-old myths and storied treasures of the islands’ inhabitants, and affords you adventures you’ve never had before. From sea to shore, we want you to experience the feeling of the South Pacific. Let us help you make French Polynesia part of your story.

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Ready To Go?

We invite you to discover your own French Polynesian paradise. Whether you desire a taste of culture, adventure or relaxation, we'll plan your perfect day in port, complete with private shore excursions!

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