Paul Gauguin Cruises delivers luxurious, small-ship voyages to the exotic islands of Tahiti, French Polynesia and the wider South Pacific. The award-winning m/s Paul Gauguin is the longest continually sailing cruise ship in the region, designed specifically for navigating the pristine lagoons and sheltered waters of these islands.
Built to provide an intimate, authentic experience of the South Seas, The Gauguin offers routes that bring guests close to local culture, natural beauty and secluded beaches.
Highlighted itineraries for 2018 include the seven-night Tahiti & the Society Islands; the 10-night Society Islands & Tuamotus; the 11-night Cook Islands & Society Islands; and the 14-night Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands.
In 2018 Paul Gauguin Cruises became the first cruise line to call at the port of Vairao in Tahiti Iti, the smaller peninsula of Tahiti known for its wild coastline, marae (traditional temples), rich Polynesian heritage and surfing culture. Tahiti Iti appears on select seven-night Society Islands & Tahiti Iti sailings and on a special departure of the 10-night Society Islands & Tuamotus itinerary.
For 2019 and beyond, the line continued to offer these core itineraries while expanding options to include destinations such as Tonga and Fiji, allowing guests to explore more of the South Pacific’s diverse islands.
Aboard each sailing, the warm hospitality of French Polynesia is woven into the experience through a variety of South Seas exclusives. The Gauguin’s troupe of Les Gauguines and Les Gauguins—local Tahitian crew who serve as staff, entertainers and storytellers—are a highlight for many guests. Onboard performances by local musicians and dancers further connect travelers to the region’s culture and traditions.
The Gauguin features spacious ocean-view suites and staterooms, with nearly 70 percent offering private balconies. Gourmet dining is available in all venues, including specialties created by guest chef Jean-Pierre Vigato. Complimentary beverages include select wines and spirits, soft drinks, bottled water and hot beverages served throughout the ship. Each cabin includes an in-room refrigerator replenished daily with soft drinks, beer and bottled water. Onboard amenities also include evening entertainment, gratuities included for all crew, and a watersports marina in select ports for launching kayaks, windsurfing and paddleboarding. A PADI certification scuba diving program is offered on many sailings for certified divers and those seeking certification.
All guests enjoy complimentary access to Paul Gauguin Cruises’ two exclusive private retreats. Off Taha’a, the islet of Motu Mahana provides a full day of watersports, Polynesian activities, a beachfront barbecue and drinks from both fixed and floating bars. In Bora Bora, the cruise line’s private white-sand beach offers refreshments, volleyball, snorkeling and paddleboarding in crystal-clear lagoon waters.
On select voyages, experts in art, culinary arts, music, magic, Polynesian life and culture, wine and marine science join the ship to present lectures, performances, demonstrations and hands-on workshops, enriching the onboard program and deepening guests’ understanding of the region.
The Gauguin consistently ranks as the highest-rated cruise experience in the South Pacific. Reflecting its long-standing commitment to quality, Paul Gauguin Cruises has earned multiple honors, including Global Traveler’s Leisure Lifestyle Award for Best Small-Ship Cruise Line for several consecutive years.
For reservations and current sailing information, contact your travel professional or call the Paul Gauguin Cruises reservations team.