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Society Islands & Tuamotus French Polynesia Luxury Cruise aboard Paul Gauguin

PAUL GAUGUIN Cruises is offering an exceptional 11-day voyage leaving from Tahiti to discover the gems of the Society Islands, including extraordinary landscapes and enchanting historical and cultural treasures.

You will be captivated by the resolutely Polynesian ambiance that prevails aboard the Paul Gauguin: a ship with a relaxed and international atmosphere, especially designed for sailing in these shallow turquoise waters.

In the Tuamotus, Rangiroa, a gigantic atoll with breathtaking underwater scenery, is most known for the cultivation of its famous black pearls. Be sure to try snorkelling in these natural aquariums where colourful fish, rays and friendly sharks can be found playing amid the reefs, or to explore the marvellous depths of the atoll of Fakarava, a UNESCO-classified nature reserve.

You will discover the wonderful Society Islands, with lush rainforests, impossibly clear lagoons, and endless palm trees swaying in the warm breeze.

The sweet scent of vanilla and Tahitian gardenias bewitches you and your dreams of escape and contemplation now seem within hand’s reach. Marvel at the beauty of Huahine; the cradle of Polynesian culture on the mythical island of Raiatea; the majestic ballet of the colourful fish undulating through the turquoise waters of motu Mahana, our small, private paradise steeped in the scent of vanilla; and Bora Bora’s stunning lagoon and distinctive volcanic silhouette.

Before disembarking in Papeete, feast your eyes on the incomparable beauty of Moorea.
29 May, 2024 to 08 June, 2024
Porthole Stateroom $ 10,630 AUD pp
deck 3, category F, capacity: 2 to 3 passengers* 19m² cabin with external views
view cabin photo
Window Stateroom $ 11,200 AUD pp
deck 4, category E, capacity: 2 to 3 passengers* 19m² cabin - Cabin 415 (21m²) is accessible to guests using wheelchairs.
view cabin photo
Balcony Stateroom. From $ 15,430 AUD pp
deck 7, category C, capacity: 2 or 3 people* 713 à 762 (cabine 20m² - balcon 3m²) 763 (17m² cabin – 7m² balcony) 764 (17,5m² cabin – 7m² balcony) 765 (20,5m² cabin – 7m² balcony) 766 (20m² cabin – 6,5m² balcony) 767 (21m² cabin – 7m² balcony) deck 6, category D, capacity: up to 3 people 20m² cabin, 3m² balcony.
view cabin photo
Veranda Stateroom $ 20,580 AUD pp
decks 8 and 7, category B, capacity: up to 3 people 23m² cabin, 5m² veranda and butler service included.
view cabin photo
Veranda Suite $ 25,390 AUD pp
deck 7, category A, capacity: up to 3 people 28m² suite, 5m² veranda and butler service included.
view cabin photo
Grand Suite $ 33,980 AUD pp
deck 8, category GS, capacity: up to 3 people 30m² cabin, 18m² veranda and balcony, free Wifi internet access, butler service included.
view cabin photo
Owner's Suite. From $ 35,360 AUD pp
Owner's Suite 701 deck 7, category OS, capacity: up to 3 people 30m² cabin, 18m² balcony and veranda, bath and separate shower, free Wi-fi internet access, dressing area and butler service included. Owner's 7002 suite deck 7, category OS, capacity: up to 3 people 42m² cabin, 7m² veranda, bath, free Wi-Fi internet access, dressing area and butler service included.
view cabin photo
09 October, 2024 to 19 October, 2024
Porthole Stateroom $ 10,630 AUD pp
deck 3, category F, capacity: 2 to 3 passengers* 19m² cabin with external views
view cabin photo
Window Stateroom $ 11,200 AUD pp
deck 4, category E, capacity: 2 to 3 passengers* 19m² cabin - Cabin 415 (21m²) is accessible to guests using wheelchairs.
view cabin photo
Balcony Stateroom. From $ 15,430 AUD pp
deck 7, category C, capacity: 2 or 3 people* 713 à 762 (cabine 20m² - balcon 3m²) 763 (17m² cabin – 7m² balcony) 764 (17,5m² cabin – 7m² balcony) 765 (20,5m² cabin – 7m² balcony) 766 (20m² cabin – 6,5m² balcony) 767 (21m² cabin – 7m² balcony) deck 6, category D, capacity: up to 3 people 20m² cabin, 3m² balcony.
view cabin photo
Veranda Stateroom $ 20,580 AUD pp
decks 8 and 7, category B, capacity: up to 3 people 23m² cabin, 5m² veranda and butler service included.
view cabin photo
Veranda Suite $ 25,390 AUD pp
deck 7, category A, capacity: up to 3 people 28m² suite, 5m² veranda and butler service included.
view cabin photo
Grand Suite $ 33,980 AUD pp
deck 8, category GS, capacity: up to 3 people 30m² cabin, 18m² veranda and balcony, free Wifi internet access, butler service included.
view cabin photo
Owner's Suite. From $ 35,360 AUD pp
Owner's Suite 701 deck 7, category OS, capacity: up to 3 people 30m² cabin, 18m² balcony and veranda, bath and separate shower, free Wi-fi internet access, dressing area and butler service included. Owner's 7002 suite deck 7, category OS, capacity: up to 3 people 42m² cabin, 7m² veranda, bath, free Wi-Fi internet access, dressing area and butler service included.
view cabin photo
11 December, 2024 to 21 December, 2024
Porthole Stateroom $ 10,630 AUD pp
deck 3, category F, capacity: 2 to 3 passengers* 19m² cabin with external views
view cabin photo
Window Stateroom $ 11,200 AUD pp
deck 4, category E, capacity: 2 to 3 passengers* 19m² cabin - Cabin 415 (21m²) is accessible to guests using wheelchairs.
view cabin photo
Balcony Stateroom. From $ 15,430 AUD pp
deck 7, category C, capacity: 2 or 3 people* 713 à 762 (cabine 20m² - balcon 3m²) 763 (17m² cabin – 7m² balcony) 764 (17,5m² cabin – 7m² balcony) 765 (20,5m² cabin – 7m² balcony) 766 (20m² cabin – 6,5m² balcony) 767 (21m² cabin – 7m² balcony) deck 6, category D, capacity: up to 3 people 20m² cabin, 3m² balcony.
view cabin photo
Veranda Stateroom $ 20,580 AUD pp
decks 8 and 7, category B, capacity: up to 3 people 23m² cabin, 5m² veranda and butler service included.
view cabin photo
Veranda Suite $ 25,390 AUD pp
deck 7, category A, capacity: up to 3 people 28m² suite, 5m² veranda and butler service included.
view cabin photo
Grand Suite $ 33,980 AUD pp
deck 8, category GS, capacity: up to 3 people 30m² cabin, 18m² veranda and balcony, free Wifi internet access, butler service included.
view cabin photo
Owner's Suite. From $ 35,360 AUD pp
Owner's Suite 701 deck 7, category OS, capacity: up to 3 people 30m² cabin, 18m² balcony and veranda, bath and separate shower, free Wi-fi internet access, dressing area and butler service included. Owner's 7002 suite deck 7, category OS, capacity: up to 3 people 42m² cabin, 7m² veranda, bath, free Wi-Fi internet access, dressing area and butler service included.
view cabin photo
14 May, 2025 to 24 May, 2025
Porthole Stateroom $ 10,610 AUD pp
deck 3, category F, capacity: 2 to 3 passengers* 19m² cabin with external views
view cabin photo
Window Stateroom $ 12,320 AUD pp
deck 4, category E, capacity: 2 to 3 passengers* 19m² cabin - Cabin 415 (21m²) is accessible to guests using wheelchairs.
view cabin photo
Balcony Stateroom. From $ 15,390 AUD pp
deck 7, category C, capacity: 2 or 3 people* 713 à 762 (cabine 20m² - balcon 3m²) 763 (17m² cabin – 7m² balcony) 764 (17,5m² cabin – 7m² balcony) 765 (20,5m² cabin – 7m² balcony) 766 (20m² cabin – 6,5m² balcony) 767 (21m² cabin – 7m² balcony) deck 6, category D, capacity: up to 3 people 20m² cabin, 3m² balcony.
view cabin photo
Veranda Stateroom $ 20,530 AUD pp
decks 8 and 7, category B, capacity: up to 3 people 23m² cabin, 5m² veranda and butler service included.
view cabin photo
Veranda Suite $ 27,600 AUD pp
deck 7, category A, capacity: up to 3 people 28m² suite, 5m² veranda and butler service included.
view cabin photo
Grand Suite $ 33,860 AUD pp
deck 8, category GS, capacity: up to 3 people 30m² cabin, 18m² veranda and balcony, free Wifi internet access, butler service included.
view cabin photo
Owner's Suite. From $ 35,230 AUD pp
Owner's Suite 701 deck 7, category OS, capacity: up to 3 people 30m² cabin, 18m² balcony and veranda, bath and separate shower, free Wi-fi internet access, dressing area and butler service included. Owner's 7002 suite deck 7, category OS, capacity: up to 3 people 42m² cabin, 7m² veranda, bath, free Wi-Fi internet access, dressing area and butler service included.
view cabin photo
04 June, 2025 to 14 June, 2025
Porthole Stateroom $ 10,610 AUD pp
deck 3, category F, capacity: 2 to 3 passengers* 19m² cabin with external views
view cabin photo
Window Stateroom $ 12,320 AUD pp
deck 4, category E, capacity: 2 to 3 passengers* 19m² cabin - Cabin 415 (21m²) is accessible to guests using wheelchairs.
view cabin photo
Balcony Stateroom. From $ 15,390 AUD pp
deck 7, category C, capacity: 2 or 3 people* 713 à 762 (cabine 20m² - balcon 3m²) 763 (17m² cabin – 7m² balcony) 764 (17,5m² cabin – 7m² balcony) 765 (20,5m² cabin – 7m² balcony) 766 (20m² cabin – 6,5m² balcony) 767 (21m² cabin – 7m² balcony) deck 6, category D, capacity: up to 3 people 20m² cabin, 3m² balcony.
view cabin photo
Veranda Stateroom $ 20,530 AUD pp
decks 8 and 7, category B, capacity: up to 3 people 23m² cabin, 5m² veranda and butler service included.
view cabin photo
Veranda Suite $ 27,600 AUD pp
deck 7, category A, capacity: up to 3 people 28m² suite, 5m² veranda and butler service included.
view cabin photo
Grand Suite $ 33,860 AUD pp
deck 8, category GS, capacity: up to 3 people 30m² cabin, 18m² veranda and balcony, free Wifi internet access, butler service included.
view cabin photo
Owner's Suite. From $ 35,230 AUD pp
Owner's Suite 701 deck 7, category OS, capacity: up to 3 people 30m² cabin, 18m² balcony and veranda, bath and separate shower, free Wi-fi internet access, dressing area and butler service included. Owner's 7002 suite deck 7, category OS, capacity: up to 3 people 42m² cabin, 7m² veranda, bath, free Wi-Fi internet access, dressing area and butler service included.
view cabin photo
08 October, 2025 to 18 October, 2025
Porthole Stateroom $ 10,610 AUD pp
deck 3, category F, capacity: 2 to 3 passengers* 19m² cabin with external views
view cabin photo
Window Stateroom $ 12,320 AUD pp
deck 4, category E, capacity: 2 to 3 passengers* 19m² cabin - Cabin 415 (21m²) is accessible to guests using wheelchairs.
view cabin photo
Balcony Stateroom. From $ 15,390 AUD pp
deck 7, category C, capacity: 2 or 3 people* 713 à 762 (cabine 20m² - balcon 3m²) 763 (17m² cabin – 7m² balcony) 764 (17,5m² cabin – 7m² balcony) 765 (20,5m² cabin – 7m² balcony) 766 (20m² cabin – 6,5m² balcony) 767 (21m² cabin – 7m² balcony) deck 6, category D, capacity: up to 3 people 20m² cabin, 3m² balcony.
view cabin photo
Veranda Stateroom $ 20,530 AUD pp
decks 8 and 7, category B, capacity: up to 3 people 23m² cabin, 5m² veranda and butler service included.
view cabin photo
Veranda Suite $ 27,600 AUD pp
deck 7, category A, capacity: up to 3 people 28m² suite, 5m² veranda and butler service included.
view cabin photo
Grand Suite $ 33,860 AUD pp
deck 8, category GS, capacity: up to 3 people 30m² cabin, 18m² veranda and balcony, free Wifi internet access, butler service included.
view cabin photo
Owner's Suite. From $ 35,230 AUD pp
Owner's Suite 701 deck 7, category OS, capacity: up to 3 people 30m² cabin, 18m² balcony and veranda, bath and separate shower, free Wi-fi internet access, dressing area and butler service included. Owner's 7002 suite deck 7, category OS, capacity: up to 3 people 42m² cabin, 7m² veranda, bath, free Wi-Fi internet access, dressing area and butler service included.
view cabin photo
26 November, 2025 to 06 December, 2025
Porthole Stateroom $ 10,610 AUD pp
deck 3, category F, capacity: 2 to 3 passengers* 19m² cabin with external views
view cabin photo
Window Stateroom $ 12,320 AUD pp
deck 4, category E, capacity: 2 to 3 passengers* 19m² cabin - Cabin 415 (21m²) is accessible to guests using wheelchairs.
view cabin photo
Balcony Stateroom. From $ 15,390 AUD pp
deck 7, category C, capacity: 2 or 3 people* 713 à 762 (cabine 20m² - balcon 3m²) 763 (17m² cabin – 7m² balcony) 764 (17,5m² cabin – 7m² balcony) 765 (20,5m² cabin – 7m² balcony) 766 (20m² cabin – 6,5m² balcony) 767 (21m² cabin – 7m² balcony) deck 6, category D, capacity: up to 3 people 20m² cabin, 3m² balcony.
view cabin photo
Veranda Stateroom $ 20,530 AUD pp
decks 8 and 7, category B, capacity: up to 3 people 23m² cabin, 5m² veranda and butler service included.
view cabin photo
Veranda Suite $ 27,600 AUD pp
deck 7, category A, capacity: up to 3 people 28m² suite, 5m² veranda and butler service included.
view cabin photo
Grand Suite $ 33,860 AUD pp
deck 8, category GS, capacity: up to 3 people 30m² cabin, 18m² veranda and balcony, free Wifi internet access, butler service included.
view cabin photo
Owner's Suite. From $ 35,230 AUD pp
Owner's Suite 701 deck 7, category OS, capacity: up to 3 people 30m² cabin, 18m² balcony and veranda, bath and separate shower, free Wi-fi internet access, dressing area and butler service included. Owner's 7002 suite deck 7, category OS, capacity: up to 3 people 42m² cabin, 7m² veranda, bath, free Wi-Fi internet access, dressing area and butler service included.
view cabin photo

Additional charges:

Port Charges. From 280 AUD pp

Society Islands & Tuamotus French Polynesia Luxury Cruise aboard Paul Gauguin itinerary:

show reverse itinerary
Day 1 – PAPEETE, TAHITI ISLAND
Capital of French Polynesia, the city of Papeete is on the north-west coast of the island of Tahiti. You’ll find a relaxed atmosphere here,where urban buzz combines with the legendary laid-back Polynesian lifestyle. Culture is not lacking. You can enjoy sites narrating the history of the archipelago, including the colonial cathedral and the Maison de la reine Marau. The Vaipahi public gardens will win you over by their abundant plant-life. The large municipal market offers local specialities: fresh fruit, spices and all kinds of fish abound on their stalls.
Days 2 - 3 – AT SEA & FAKARAVA, TUAMOTU ISLANDS
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Day 3 – FAKARAVA, TUAMOTU ISLANDS
Listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Fakarava’s coral ellipsis is a narrow stretch of land sitting on a crystal-clear sea. Travellers here are surprised by the immensity of the lagoon, whose colours evoke an infinite palette. The atoll, renowned for its immaculate beaches and preserved nature, is home to rare bird species, plants and crustaceans. You’ll disembark in front of the Veke Veke guesthouse, where you will be welcomed with garlands of flowers and traditional music. You will then be able to go for a walk along the beach or put on flippers, mask and snorkel to make the most of the warm waters of Fakarava and observe its brightly coloured coral.
Day 4 - RANGIROA, TUAMOTU ISLANDS
A secluded atoll in the Tuamotu Archipelago, Rangiroa, meaning “vast sky” in Polynesian, is very aptly named. The lagoon of the largest atoll in Polynesia is reminiscent of the heavens, imprisoned by hundreds of islets formed by sand that veers from immaculate white to pink. But the beauty of Rangiroa, classed by Captain Cousteau as one of the most beautiful diving spots in the world, is most evident in its underwater life: you will have the occasion of admiring all the richness of the site on a snorkeling tour or on a glass-bottom boat tour. Rangiroa is also the high seat of Polynesian pearl culture.
Day 5 - HUAHINE, SOCIETY ISLANDS
Located less than 200 kilometres north-west of Tahiti, Huahine Island is a secret gem in French Polynesia. You’ll love the mysterious atmosphere emanating from its voluptuous contours, its wild vegetation and stunning remote creeks. If you explore both parts of the island, la Grande Huahine to the north, and la Petite Huahine to the south, will reveal some of its hidden treasures, as well as some archaeological remains from the Polynesian past. You can meet the local population in the main town of Fare, or in the string of villages along the coast.
Days 6 - 7 - BORA BORA, SOCIETY ISLANDS
Paradisiacal atoll of the archipelago of the Leeward Islands, west of French Polynesia, mythical Bora Bora offers a natural spectacle of captivating beauty. You’ll be won over as much by the white sandy beaches as by its famous lagoon, one of the most beautiful in the world, where colourful fish frolic in waters of incomparable turquoise. The island is covered with tropical vegetation, and dominated by the majestic outline of Mount Otemanu. A promenade through this volcanic landscape will enable you to discover a number of villages and meet local communities.
Day 8 - RAIATEA, SOCIETY ISLANDS
A volcanic island located halfway between Huahine and Bora-Bora, Raiatea is like the mother of Polynesia. It was on its rocky flanks that the oldest traces of local habitation were found. According to legend, it was even the cradle of the gods... You can admire several sites that bear witness to this past, including the first Polynesian holy site, the Te-Po religious centre, including the marae Taputapuatea, a sort of altar made of stone and coral. Although beaches are rare on Raiatea, here nature is totally captivating, and the coral islets offer myriads of ravishing creeks.
Day 9 - MOTU MAHANA, TAHA'A ISLAND, SOCIETY ISLANDS
Feet in the sand, on the islet of Motu Mahana, our sumptuous little private paradise, you will share a very special experience around an authentic traditional Polynesian barbecue. A veritable jewel in the Taha’a lagoon, pristine atoll of the Society Islands, Motu Mahana offers an infinite palette of shades of turquoise, an idyllic backdrop for observing the majestic ballet of the tropical fish. The volcanic island of Taha’a, dominated by Mount Ohiri and Mount Puurauti, will reveal its fertile and luxuriant nature, ideal for cultivating the magnificent black pearls of French Polynesia, as well as vanilla. This rare spice, greatly in demand by gourmets, is the main economic resource of what is also known as Vanilla Island.
Day 10 - MOOREA ISLAND
A part of the Windward Island archipelago just to the west of Tahiti, famous Mo'orea will leave you with a series of unforgettable images and memories. Bask on its heavenly beaches, enjoy a dip in the turquoise waters of its lagoon, and soak up its luscious vegetation and the heady flowers that carpet the inland areas. Get the most out of this natural gem with a trip to the Mo'orea Belvedere. Exceptional views of Mount Rotui unfurl before your eyes, with the Opunohu Bay and its valley to the left, and the famous Cook's Bay, surrounded by notched, cathedral-style peaks, to the right.
Day 11 – PAPEETE, TAHITI ISLAND
Capital of French Polynesia, the city of Papeete is on the north-west coast of the island of Tahiti. You’ll find a relaxed atmosphere here,where urban buzz combines with the legendary laid-back Polynesian lifestyle. Culture is not lacking. You can enjoy sites narrating the history of the archipelago, including the colonial cathedral and the Maison de la reine Marau. The Vaipahi public gardens will win you over by their abundant plant-life. The large municipal market offers local specialities: fresh fruit, spices and all kinds of fish abound on their stalls.
Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Society Islands & Tuamotus French Polynesia Luxury Cruise aboard Paul Gauguin reverse itinerary:

show main itinerary
Please Note: *
Itineraries are subject to change.
Day 11 – PAPEETE, TAHITI ISLAND *
Capital of French Polynesia, the city of Papeete is on the north-west coast of the island of Tahiti. You’ll find a relaxed atmosphere here,where urban buzz combines with the legendary laid-back Polynesian lifestyle. Culture is not lacking. You can enjoy sites narrating the history of the archipelago, including the colonial cathedral and the Maison de la reine Marau. The Vaipahi public gardens will win you over by their abundant plant-life. The large municipal market offers local specialities: fresh fruit, spices and all kinds of fish abound on their stalls.
Day 10 - MOOREA ISLAND *
A part of the Windward Island archipelago just to the west of Tahiti, famous Mo'orea will leave you with a series of unforgettable images and memories. Bask on its heavenly beaches, enjoy a dip in the turquoise waters of its lagoon, and soak up its luscious vegetation and the heady flowers that carpet the inland areas. Get the most out of this natural gem with a trip to the Mo'orea Belvedere. Exceptional views of Mount Rotui unfurl before your eyes, with the Opunohu Bay and its valley to the left, and the famous Cook's Bay, surrounded by notched, cathedral-style peaks, to the right.
Day 9 - MOTU MAHANA, TAHA'A ISLAND, SOCIETY ISLANDS *
Feet in the sand, on the islet of Motu Mahana, our sumptuous little private paradise, you will share a very special experience around an authentic traditional Polynesian barbecue. A veritable jewel in the Taha’a lagoon, pristine atoll of the Society Islands, Motu Mahana offers an infinite palette of shades of turquoise, an idyllic backdrop for observing the majestic ballet of the tropical fish. The volcanic island of Taha’a, dominated by Mount Ohiri and Mount Puurauti, will reveal its fertile and luxuriant nature, ideal for cultivating the magnificent black pearls of French Polynesia, as well as vanilla. This rare spice, greatly in demand by gourmets, is the main economic resource of what is also known as Vanilla Island.
Day 8 - RAIATEA, SOCIETY ISLANDS *
A volcanic island located halfway between Huahine and Bora-Bora, Raiatea is like the mother of Polynesia. It was on its rocky flanks that the oldest traces of local habitation were found. According to legend, it was even the cradle of the gods... You can admire several sites that bear witness to this past, including the first Polynesian holy site, the Te-Po religious centre, including the marae Taputapuatea, a sort of altar made of stone and coral. Although beaches are rare on Raiatea, here nature is totally captivating, and the coral islets offer myriads of ravishing creeks.
Days 6 - 7 - BORA BORA, SOCIETY ISLANDS *
Paradisiacal atoll of the archipelago of the Leeward Islands, west of French Polynesia, mythical Bora Bora offers a natural spectacle of captivating beauty. You’ll be won over as much by the white sandy beaches as by its famous lagoon, one of the most beautiful in the world, where colourful fish frolic in waters of incomparable turquoise. The island is covered with tropical vegetation, and dominated by the majestic outline of Mount Otemanu. A promenade through this volcanic landscape will enable you to discover a number of villages and meet local communities.
Day 5 - HUAHINE, SOCIETY ISLANDS *
Located less than 200 kilometres north-west of Tahiti, Huahine Island is a secret gem in French Polynesia. You’ll love the mysterious atmosphere emanating from its voluptuous contours, its wild vegetation and stunning remote creeks. If you explore both parts of the island, la Grande Huahine to the north, and la Petite Huahine to the south, will reveal some of its hidden treasures, as well as some archaeological remains from the Polynesian past. You can meet the local population in the main town of Fare, or in the string of villages along the coast.
Day 4 - RANGIROA, TUAMOTU ISLANDS *
A secluded atoll in the Tuamotu Archipelago, Rangiroa, meaning “vast sky” in Polynesian, is very aptly named. The lagoon of the largest atoll in Polynesia is reminiscent of the heavens, imprisoned by hundreds of islets formed by sand that veers from immaculate white to pink. But the beauty of Rangiroa, classed by Captain Cousteau as one of the most beautiful diving spots in the world, is most evident in its underwater life: you will have the occasion of admiring all the richness of the site on a snorkeling tour or on a glass-bottom boat tour. Rangiroa is also the high seat of Polynesian pearl culture.
Day 3 – FAKARAVA, TUAMOTU ISLANDS *
Listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Fakarava’s coral ellipsis is a narrow stretch of land sitting on a crystal-clear sea. Travellers here are surprised by the immensity of the lagoon, whose colours evoke an infinite palette. The atoll, renowned for its immaculate beaches and preserved nature, is home to rare bird species, plants and crustaceans. You’ll disembark in front of the Veke Veke guesthouse, where you will be welcomed with garlands of flowers and traditional music. You will then be able to go for a walk along the beach or put on flippers, mask and snorkel to make the most of the warm waters of Fakarava and observe its brightly coloured coral.
Days 2 - 3 – AT SEA & FAKARAVA, TUAMOTU ISLANDS *
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Day 1 – PAPEETE, TAHITI ISLAND *
Capital of French Polynesia, the city of Papeete is on the north-west coast of the island of Tahiti. You’ll find a relaxed atmosphere here,where urban buzz combines with the legendary laid-back Polynesian lifestyle. Culture is not lacking. You can enjoy sites narrating the history of the archipelago, including the colonial cathedral and the Maison de la reine Marau. The Vaipahi public gardens will win you over by their abundant plant-life. The large municipal market offers local specialities: fresh fruit, spices and all kinds of fish abound on their stalls.
* = Indicative
Map for Society Islands & Tuamotus French Polynesia Luxury Cruise aboard Paul Gauguin
Paul Gauguin, the ship servicing Society Islands & Tuamotus French Polynesia Luxury Cruise aboard Paul Gauguin

Paul Gauguin

Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition

Length: 504 feet, 153.6 meters

Passenger Capacity: 332

Refurbished: 2021

Designed specifically to glide through the shallow seas of the South Pacific, The Gauguin is a small-ship cruiser’s dream. She delivers travelers to intimate ports inaccessible to larger cruise ships, all the while providing an onboard experience that is nothing short of luxurious. Guests aboard luxury cruises enjoy spacious suites and staterooms (more than 70% with private balconies), an onboard watersports marina, three dining venues, an extensive spa, and five-star service. Life onboard also reflects the beauty and rich cultural heritage of the islands she calls upon, with a warm, friendly feel, informal setting, and even a beloved troupe of Gauguines and Gauguins—local Tahitians who serve as cruise staff, entertainers, and storytellers.

Ship Features

All oceanview accommodations, nearly 70% with balconies, measuring from 200 to 500 sq. ft., including balcony

Butler service, in-suite bar setup, and iPod® music system in suite/stateroom category B and above

A choice of three dining venues

Complimentary 24-hour room service, including selections from L’Etoile restaurant during regular dining hours

Complimentary beverages, including select wines and spirits, beer, soft drinks, bottled water, and hot beverages

Onboard gratuities for room stewards, dining and bar staff

Full entertainment program including Polynesian artists, musical entertainment, a pianist, and a professionally operated casino with slot machines

Spa and beauty services, including hand and foot treatments, body treatments, facials, and spa programs

Optional PADI SCUBA diving program and certification

Watersports marina for complimentary kayaking and paddleboarding, and Zodiacs® for optional dive excursions

Fully-equipped fitness center

Presentations by local naturalists and a variety of special guests

Spacious outdoor decks and pool

La Boutique duty-free shop

Book library (open 24 hours a day)

Wi-Fi hot spots throughout the ship to cover most suites/staterooms and common areas, as well as guest-accessible computers, available 24 hours a day for a nominal fee

Laundry services available

Certified medical services

166 suites/staterooms on Decks 3-8, including one wheelchair-accessible stateroom and select staterooms that can accommodate three guests

Cabin layout for Paul Gauguin
• A gentle escapade aboard the Paul Gauguin, an expert in the destination, with an international and friendly atmosphere.

• An immersion in South Pacific culture and way of life: the sunny disposition of the Gauguines and the Gauguins, our Polynesian hosts, singing, weaving workshops, dancing lessons.

• Indulge in two full days in the Pacific paradise of Bora Bora. As if vistas of towering Mount Otemanu, the romantic lagoon, and an unhurried pace of life weren’t enough, our exclusive white-sand beach offers ample places to relax.

• Discover the ‘infinite lagoon’ on Rangiroa, the biggest atoll in French Polynesia, which is famous for its ‘wall of sharks’.

• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Fakarava, a biosphere reserve, and the world’s second-largest lagoon, home to unique flora and fauna, grey sharks and untouched coral reefs.

• The legendary island of Raiatea, combining ancestral wonders and enchanting nature.

• Live the life idyllic with a memorable day on Motu Mahana, our own private slice of paradise. On this exclusive islet, treat yourself to sand between your toes, the shade of swaying palm trees, a sumptuous barbecue lunch and, of course, drinks sipped from coconuts.

• Discover Polynesia’s culture and traditions.

• Fauna: manta rays, spotted eagle rays, common eagle rays, lemon sharks, blacktip reef sharks, sea turtles and multicoloured fish.

• Possibility of diving (PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent) with an experienced instructor on board.