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An exceptional 8-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. This marvellous cruise will take you towards destinations that have inspired many artists, such as the novelist Herman Melville, the painters Henri Matisse and Paul Gauguin, the singer-songwriter Jacques Brel and many others.
You will be dazzled by the sumptuous lagoon of Bora Bora, with its distinctly recognisable volcanic silhouette, by the incomparable beauty of Huahine, by the turquoise waters of the motu Mahana, our private vanilla-scented paradise and by Moorea, with its hillside pineapple plantations and its verdant peaks overlooking the island.
Between pearl farms and white sandy beaches, French Polynesia will reveal its many mysteries to you. Surrounded by superb lagoons of translucent waters edged by exceptional coral reefs, the islands of Polynesia are undoubtedly some of the most beautiful in the world and home to astonishing and rich wildlife.
Le Paul Gauguin
In September 2019, PAUL GAUGUIN Cruises joined the PONANT family, while retaining its personality: its relaxed, international atmosphere and destination expertise; an atmosphere that is decidedly different from the company's other ships. Le Paul Gauguin has been specially designed to sail in Polynesian waters. Her shallow draft allows for close access to shallow lagoons and isolated islands for optimal docking time. The ship's new interior designed by Studio Jean-Philippe Nuel and its recent fittings evoke South Seas elegance. All 165 cabins and suites have a view of the outside world.
*Advertised price is based on per person twin share correct as of 8 April 2025 in a Porthole Stateroom on deck 3. Pricing based on 21 March 2026 departure
Highlights & Inclusions
Inclusions
All onboard beverages including mini-bar
Fine dining in all the restaurants
All drinks in restaurants, bars
24-hour room service
Butler service in some suites
Free and unlimited Wi-Fi service on board
Parties, shows and other activities
Access to the fitness centre and steam room or sauna, depending on the ship
Conferences delivered by naturalist guides and guests of honour
Non-motorised water sports activities, such as kayaking or stand-up paddling (diving not included)
Taxes for national parks and conservation areas
All port and security fees
Highlights
A cruise to discover the natural treasures, riches, and age-old traditions of the Society Islands.
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.
Slow down and let stress float away on secluded Huahine. Explore the local village on foot. Wander through lush rainforests. Float in crystal-clear lagoons.
Live an idyllic life 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.
Enjoy an overnight in Bora Bora, which gives you ample time to explore this laid-back destination’s dramatic mountain peaks, romantic lagoon, and impossibly turquoise waters.
Moorea, with its emerald lagoon, white sandy beaches and endemic lush gardens.
Discover Polynesia’s traditional way of life and customs.
Possibility of diving (PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent) with an experienced instructor on board.
Itinerary
21 March 2026 - 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.
22 March 2026 - 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.
23 March 2026 - Motu Mahana, Taha
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.
24 March 2026 > 25 March 2026 - 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.
26 March 2026 > 27 March 2026 - 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.
27 March 2026 > 28 March 2026 - 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.
Booking terms and conditions apply.
*
Term and conditions apply: All pricing subject to change and availability. Advertised prices are per person twin share unless stated otherwise. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Itineraries are subject to change. Booking Conditions and Phil Hoffmann Travel Schedule of Professionalism* applies. Please speak to your Phil Hoffmann Travel Consultant for more information.
