Australs & Society Islands

Embark the luxurious Paul Gauguin in the capital of Tahiti and begin your journey to paradise.

Known as the “wild” Society for its untamed, verdant forests, Huahine remains relatively untouched by modern development. Explore some of the abundant archaeological treasures – ancient homes, buildings, and marae (stone platforms that served as places of worship) – excavated and preserved throughout the island. Or dive in Huahine’s crystalline lagoon, which teems with over 450 species of fish.

Immediately recognizable by Mount Otemanu rising from the ocean, this half-atoll, half-mountain is surrounded by a spectacular lagoon and a series of smaller islands. Ancient Polynesians called it Parapora, or “firstborn,” because they thought it was the first island created after Raiatea. You’ll have two full days to explore this magical island.

Bora Bora’s turquoise lagoon begs to be explored. Visit our own private beach for excellent snorkeling, or choose from a variety of optional shore excursions – perhaps a jitney tour on Le Truck, a 4-wheel-drive safari, or a glass-bottomed boat ride.

Motu Mahana, an islet adjacent to Taha'a, is your very own South Seas paradise featuring white-sand beaches with swaying palms, crystal-clear waters, and gentle breezes. As an exclusive Paul Gauguin event, guests will spend a full day relaxing on this idyllic, isolated island, enjoying swimming and snorkeling in the beautiful lagoon, savoring a delicious barbecue lunch, and delighting in Polynesian entertainment featuring strolling musicians and singers. You’ll depart for Raiatea this evening.

Explore the island that was once the cultural, religious, royal and political heart of Polynesia, and, according to legend, and lore, as well as Tahiti's most significant archeological sites. Ancient Polynesians built maraes, or temples, of stone in many sizes. The maraes provided a physical space for the spirit of the gods to occupy during ritual ceremonies,as did the carved wooden tikis for which the region is famous. Be sure to visit Taputapuatea, a national monument and the most important marae in the Society Islands.

Relax onboard your own personal South Seas isle: the Paul Gauguin.

The northernmost island of the Austral chain, Rurutu offers a kaleidoscope of landscapes, from its winding white beaches and lush coffee and pineapple plantations to the steep cliffs renowned for their hidden caves. Humpback whales flock to these protected waters during the Austral summer (July to October) to bear their young. This sailing of The Gauguin features a call on Rurutu, the “Island of Whales,” during this prime season for humpback whale viewing. Perhaps you, too, will be delighted by the graceful antics of these gentle giants and moved by their haunting songs.

Take another day to enjoy shipboard life: relax poolside, watch the South Pacific slip by, play some table tennis, or take advantage of the Reading Library.

Moorea's lush scenery is like something out of a dream – spectacular mountain peaks cloaked in verdant green vegetation, an abundance of fresh fruits and flowers, and peaceful multi-hued lagoons framed by palm-fringed beaches. Enjoy two days to revel in the island’s unsurpassed beauty and wealth of activities.

Spend another day admiring Moorea’s lush, vivid greenery from the vantage point of your luxurious ship, or join a shore excursions. Perhaps you’ll tour the island by bus or off-road vehicle, set off on a guided hiking expedition, or board a covered boat for a dolphin-watching cruise. Or stay onboard and enjoy an enrichment lectures. This evening, your ship returns to Papeete, Tahiti.

In the morning, you'll disembark the Paul Gauguin, capping off your epic journey through the South Seas.