Discover Paradise with French Polynesia's Destination Expert
Romance, luxury, beauty, relaxation, adventure—all are thoroughly indulged as you navigate three legendary South Pacific archipelagos on a two-week itinerary that packs impressive variety into a single journey. Savor the carefree bliss of ship life aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin even as you prepare to explore the jagged cliffs and archaeological treasures of the Marquesas. Soak up days of postcard-worthy dreaminess in the fabled Society Islands and be immersed in the fluorescent underwater wonders in the Tuamotu atolls. Lose all track of time, gain a fresh perspective on the beauty of our planet, and find yourself transformed by the experience.
Venture into the mystical Marquesas, a realm of untamed beauty where ancient cultures echo through lush rainforests and staggering volcanic peaks. Discover remote islands steeped in legend with archaeological treasures and mysterious petroglyphs hidden amidst some of the most untouched wilderness on Earth.
Voyage deep into three of French Polynesia’s famed archipelagos to snorkel the Technicolor underwater wonders of Fakarava in the Tuamotus and search for archaeological ruins and ancient petroglyphs in the tropical rainforests of the Marquesas – among the most remote islands on Earth. Fall in love with the pristine beaches, azure waters, and legendary lagoons of Bora Bora and Moorea in the fabled Society Islands.
The nature lover's paradise of Fakarava offers front-row seats to rare birds, plants, and crustaceans you won't see anywhere else in the world. And, you won't need to take an excursion deep into the jungle to see them—many of these exotic species can be spotted from the island's incredible beaches.
History and culture are in the forefront on the island of Hiva Oa, which is the home of the largest stone sculptures in the Marquesas, which are said to be linked to the famous tikis of Easter Island.
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.
Roundtrip Papeete, Tahiti
2025: Oct 25, Dec 6
2026: Jan 17, Mar 7, May 23, Jun 20, Aug 15, Oct 24, Dec 19
2027: May 8, July 3, Aug 28
2028: Feb 12, May 13, Jul 8, Aug 26, Sep 23
Itinerary*:
Day 1 Tahiti, Society Islands
Day 2 Rangiroa, Tuamotu Islands
Day 3 At Sea
Day 4 Atuona, Hiva Oa, Marquesas Islands
Day 5 Omoa, Fatu Hiva, Marquesas Islands
Day 6 Hapatoni, Tahuata, Marquesas Islands
Day 7 Taiohae, Nuku Hiva, Marquesas Islands
Day 8 At Sea
Day 9 Fakarava, Tuamotu Islands
Day 10 At Sea
Day 11 Bora Bora, Society Islands
Day 12 Taha'a Society Islands (Motu Mahana)
Day 13 Huahine, Society Islands
Day 14 Moorea, Society Islands
Day 15 Tahiti, Society Islands
*Based on 2026 sailings. Other sailings have a different day-by-day itinerary.
Designed specifically to glide in luxury through the shallow seas of the South Pacific, the m/s Paul Gauguin is a small-ship cruiser’s dream. The Gauguin delivers travelers to intimate ports inaccessible to larger cruise ships, all while providing a travel experience that is nothing short of luxurious. Once on board, guests enjoy spacious suites and staterooms (nearly 70% with private balconies), a watersports marina, three dining venues, an extensive spa, and five-star service.
If you are new to Paul Gauguin Cruises, I hope you find this introduction valuable. If you are already familiar, perhaps this will ignite Polynesian memories. In any case, please do reach out if you'd like information about Paul Gauguin Cruises. I highly recommend it!
Part of what makes a voyage with Paul Gauguin Cruises so special is to be able to access some of the world’s most idyllic, unspoiled beaches which larger ships cannot reach.
Motu Mahana | Off the coast of Taha’a, there is Paul Gauguin Cruises’ private South Seas island, where you’ll spend a day (or maybe two, depending on your itinerary) doing exactly as you please.
Bora Bora | You can spend as much time as you'd like during the day on our private beach in Bora Bora (subject to availability as conditions allow).
The Gauguin sails accompanied by her own troupe of Tahitian hosts and entertainers, Les Gauguins & Les Gauguines, that bring the spirit of Polynesia to life. Enjoy a retelling of ancestral legends through dance, delight in traditional songs onboard and on Paul Gauguin Cruises' private motu, and learn local crafts during hands-on demonstrations. In addition to Les Gauguins & Les Gauguines, on every voyage we invite local performers onboard to entertain you. Couples celebrating a honeymoon or anniversary can even attend a Polynesian blessing ceremony.
The islands of French Polynesia have been Paul Gauguin Cruises' home for more than 25 years and their expertise in revealing them with artful authenticity is unmatched. Spend more time enjoying your cruise vacation with the destination expert, and less time worrying about every little detail when it’s all been taken care of—from gourmet dining in three different restaurants, to beverages, including select wines and spirits, beer, soft drinks, and hot beverages, complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship, onboard gratuities, 24-hour room service, butler service for categories B and higher, watersports marina for kayaking and paddleboarding, and so much more.
Paul Gauguin Cruises welcomes all solo travelers with a Zero Single Supplement on a rich selection of all-inclusive voyages. Treat yourself to the genuine hospitality and pampered luxuries unique to The Gauguin and indulge in the serenity of this overwater “bungalow” that sails.
Offered in partnership with Te mana o te moana, a South Pacific marine education and conservation foundation, the Moana Explorer Program is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for children and teens, ages 6-15, to discover and value the natural wonders of this breathtaking part of the world through hands-on, interactive learning.
Kids sail free as a third guest in the stateroom. Pricing for the third guest in the same stateroom is as follows: 17 years old and under, sail FREE; 18 years of age or older, 30% of adult cruise fare + taxes and fees will apply. Triples are available in select staterooms, are capacity controlled and subject to change at anytime without notice.
Published fares are inclusive of up to 30% bonus savings.
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