On this two-week South Pacific cruise aboard the M/S Paul Gauguin, start in Tahiti by exploring local markets and cuisine. Sail to Fakarava, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, then head to the mist-covered islands of Marquesas to discover the islands of Fatu Hiva, Hiva Oa, Ua Huka, and Nuku Hiva. In Bora Bora, relax on the beach or dive into coral reefs. Visit Huahine for rainforests and archaeological sites, and enjoy water activities at Taha’a’s private Motu Mahana. Onboard, take part in Polynesian dance lessons, cooking demonstrations, and cultural performances. Shop in Moorea, or admire Mount Otemanu in Bora Bora. Dine on gourmet cuisine, relax at the Algotherm Spa, and enjoy a well-balanced mix of adventure and leisure.
Highlights
Visit Fakarava, the remote island sanctuary for rare birds and plants
Explore the island of Hiva Oa, the burial place of artist Paul Gauguin
Unwind on Taha’a’s exclusive private islet, Motu Mahana
Spend time snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding in Bora Bora
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
The islands of Polynesia are a gorgeous collection of volcanic atolls strewn across the grand Pacific Ocean, and the island of Tahiti is the largest of all 118. Explore the dynamic dining, nightlife, and shopping in the capital city of Papeete before embarking on The Gauguin.
Spend the day enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of the Paul Gauguin. Attend a lecture on local wildlife or history, relax by the pool, or visit the Algotherm Spa—or do both. With a full day at sea, you have plenty of time to unwind and plan your next adventure.
Fakarava is an unspoiled paradise in every sense of the word. In addition to the many rare species of plants and animals found in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it’s also a place of cultural and historical significance, with charming villages, ancient temples, and spectacular coral churches.
Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Your onboard hosts are ready to share their Polynesian culture with Tahitian dance lessons, hands-on traditional craft demonstrations, and an array of activities for all ages. The day is yours to make what you will of it. Perhaps you take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe unwind poolside or treat yourself to a visit to the Algotherm Spa… or why not both? A day at sea offers ample time to relax and plan your next adventure.
The southernmost island in the Marquesas, Fatu Hiva is wild, remote, and spectacularly beautiful. Don’t forget your camera—be treated to jungle greenery that begins right at the water’s edge, sheer cliffs, and deep, indigo waters. With only 500 residents and only one road, this island is almost completely yours.
Take an excursion to explore the deep valleys, rugged peaks, and dense velvet rainforests of Hiva Oa, which offer up ancient, massive stone tiki carvings and petroglyphs. Or visit Paul Gauguin's grave on the way into the village of Atuona where you can see Belgian singer Jacques Brel's plane, Jojo, and learn about why these famous artists fell in love with this particular island.
The leaf-shaped volcanic island of Tahuata may be small, at only 19 square miles, but it’s full of surprises—in fact, its name means “sunrise” in Marquesan. With only 600 residents, you can immediately feel welcomed by the friendly locals as you make your way along an ancient royal walkway into the quaint village of Hapatoni. If you're looking to take home a hand-carved tiki from the South Pacific—this is where you can find the perfect treasure.
Water or land? When you arrive in Taiohae, choices abound. Hike with a guide to discover massive banyan trees and hidden valleys or embark upon an optional 4x4 excursion through the Taipivai Valley.
The next two days are at sea, which affords you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the amenities and entertainment onboard The Gauguin, like the award-winning spa and lectures by onboard experts.
Don’t be fooled by the vibe of this laid-back, secluded island. Many treasures are hidden among the lush rainforest and dramatic terrain. With a bit of exploration, uncover some of the best-preserved archeological sites in French Polynesia. Underwater treasures await as well, with a snorkel excursion in the lagoon.
Explore lush peaks, wander white-sand beaches, and marvel at the iconic views of Mount Otemanu. Take the plunge with a SCUBA excursion to see the island’s colorful coral reefs, enjoy a sunset jetboat ride, or spend a lazy afternoon on our private beach.*. Like a priceless Paul Gauguin painting come to life, the storied Bora Bora is colorful and unforgettable. The landscape alone has you searching for adequate adjectives, especially once you see the lagoon—“turquoise” just doesn’t do it justice.
Shore excursions await, but so does Motu Mahana, Paul Gauguin Cruises’ own private islet. Choose from swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or simply lounging on the beach with a cold drink from our floating bar. Les Gauguines are also on hand to share musical entertainment and Polynesian crafts.
Step into a vibrant, colorful world in bright and beautiful Moorea, which welcomes you with azure lagoons, impossibly fresh tropical fruits, stunning mountain peaks, and palm-fringed beaches. Commune with nature on an optional dolphin-watching excursion with an expert marine biologist. Afterward, spend some time getting to know the local residents while shopping for handmade crafts.
Day 15: Disembark in Papeete, Tahiti
1 Breakfast
Tahiti’s capital city of Papeete welcomes you back with emerald hillsides, sapphire waters, and warm breezes. If you’re not ready for your South Pacific vacation to end, spend a few days here experiencing resorts, spas, restaurants, nightlife, and shopping.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$8,070
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
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Porthole Stateroom (F)
14 staterooms, 200 sq feet, two portholes
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Window Stateroom (E)
37 staterooms, 200 sq feet, picture window. Wheelchair-accessible staterooms. Some have a loveseat convertible for third guest accommodations.
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Balcony Stateroom (D)
26 staterooms, 202 sq feet with 37 sq feet veranda. Some have a loveseat convertible for third guest accommodations.
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Balcony Stateroom (C)
63 staterooms, 202 sq feet with 37 sq feet veranda. Some have a loveseat convertible for third guest accommodations.
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Veranda Stateroom (B)
17 staterooms, 249 sq feet with 56 sq feet veranda. B Veranda Staterooms can accommodate a third guest by adding a sofa bed.
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Veranda Suite (A)
5 suites, 300 sq feet with 58 sq feet veranda. Butler service, can accommodate 4 guests by adding two rollaways.
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Grand Suite
2 suites, 332 sq feet with 197 sq feet veranda. Butler service, can accommodate 4 guests by adding two rollaways.
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Owners Suite
2 suites with 437-531 sq feet and a 57-77 sq feet veranda. Butler service, separate dressing area, can accommodate 4 guests by adding two rollaways.
Notes
- Port, security, and handling fees of $140 to $320 are included.
- Cruise fare does not include optional shore excursions, available to purchase, and additional fees.
- Cruise fuel surcharges may apply.
- Rates are posted as double occupancy. Subject to availability, may not be combinable with other offers, are capacity controlled, and may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice.
- PGC reserves the right to limit the number of single-occupancy cabins on any sailing. Single supplements are available at 100% for categories OG, OS, A, and B. Categories C, D, E, and F have a much smaller or different single supplement. Single supplements are in addition to listed cruise fare and vary by voyage. Contact us for exact rates.
- Optional hotel stays, Land programs, and Air programs are available, please contact us for details.
Everything was amazing! The planning with Adventure Life went smoothly. The actual trip was fantastic! One of the best trips I have experienced. The cruise staff members were knowledgeable and attentive. I will be writing more about this on the blog!
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