French Polynesia's destination expert journeys beyond its home waters in the Society Islands to host you on an extraordinary 14-night journey into legendary South Pacific isles, from tiny Tonga to fascinating Fiji. Pristine shores weave a tapestry of culture and beauty, and every port has its own unique story to share. Follow the paths carved by history's greatest mariners and discover why these islands have captivated explorers for centuries.
Highlights
Experience the fascinating duality of Fiji through its contrasting ports: embrace the cosmopolitan energy of Suva, the nation's capital, before finding yourself in Savusavu—a sanctuary so breathtaking it has earned the name "Fiji's Best Kept Secret."
Dive into an underwater wonderland at Beqa Island, where one of the planet's most impressive barrier reefs creates a natural aquarium teeming with vibrant coral gardens and an incredible array of tropical marine life.
Create unforgettable memories on our exclusive retreat, Motu Mahana. This private paradise invites you to embrace island living at its—on a gourmet barbecue lunch, sip fresh coconut drinks, and let the gentle breeze beneath the palm trees transport you to a state of pure bliss.
*Price listed is per person cruise only, double occupancy and includes promotional discounts and port security and handle fees. Prices and availability of stateroom category are subject to change until deposit is completed.
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Shore Excursion Terms & Conditions
Please note that not all shore excursions are available on all sailings. Descriptions and pricing may vary. Shore excursions will not be available for pre-booking until approximately 60 days prior to sailing (except for the Romantic Escapades excursions). Seven days or less prior to embarkation, shore excursions can only be booked onboard. New tours, not previously listed for online sales, may be available onboard without prior notice. If you have questions or would like to pre-book your shore excursions, please contact our Reservation Department at 1 (800) 848-6172 for assistance.
Once onboard, please refer to the tour descriptions for full details or consult with the Travel Concierge Team for further information.
Embarkation 13/01/2027 from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Departure 13/01/2027 at 6:30 PM
The largest of French Polynesia's 118 islands, Tahiti and it's capital city of Papeete are the perfect place to begin (and/or end) your South Pacific sojourn. The Gauguin waits patiently in the harbor, a vibrant and bustling market across the street and in the evenings roulottes (food trucks) line the nearby square offering tasty local fare.
Arrival 14/01/2027 at 7:00 AM
Departure 14/01/2027 at 5:00 PM
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. Afterwards, spend some time getting to know the local residents while shopping for handmade crafts.
Arrival 15/01/2027 at 8:00 AM
Departure 15/01/2027 at 6:00 PM
As the day unfolds in front of you, where will you go? Exciting 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.
Arrival 16/01/2027 at 7:00 AM
Departure 17/01/2027 at 6:00 PM
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, storied Bora Bora is colorful and unforgettable. The landscape alone will have you searching for adequate adjectives, especially once you see the lagoon—“turquoise” just doesn’t do it justice.
*Subject to availability as conditions allow. When unable to call there, we will be offering a tender to the pier and a free shuttle to Matira Beach, the island’s award-winning public beach that features restaurants, public facilities and shopping. Voted #1 in the best things to do in Bora Bora by U.S. News & World Report, Matira Beach boasts powdery white sand, waters in a thousand shades of blue, and is wonderfully uncrowded.
Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the 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’ll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you’ll 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.
Arrival 19/01/2027 at 8:00 AM
Departure 19/01/2027 at 5:00 PM
A wealth of cultural tradition, Aitutaki's inhabitants keep their history alive through song, dance, legends and crafts. If you're looking to spend time on land, consider taking the easy hike to the highest peak on the island, Maunga Pu, where you'll be rewarded with 360-degree views. But if you're interested in an excursion, a trip out to One Foot Island in Aitutaki's stunning blue lagoon will take your breath away.
Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the 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’ll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you’ll 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.
Indulge in two tranquil days at sea. It may be worth setting down that tropical cocktail, putting a bookmark in whatever you’re reading, and taking notice for one key reason—you’ll be crossing the International Date Line, something most travelers can’t say they’ve done.
Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the 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’ll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you’ll 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.
Arrival 23/01/2027 at 8:00 AM
Departure 23/01/2027 at 5:00 PM
Enjoy a Polynesian cultural show, sample traditional Tongan food, or climb to the top of Mt. Talau, the highest point on Vava’u. You’ll be rewarded with unparalleled views of the surrounding islands. And, while the activities on land are sure to impress, you won’t want to miss the underwater show, either. The island’s crystal-clear lagoon is home to more than 100 species of tropical fish, plus dolphins, rays, and more.
Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the 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’ll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you’ll 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.
Arrival 25/01/2027 at 8:00 AM
Departure 25/01/2027 at 5:00 PM
Tucked away on the largely undeveloped northern Fijian island of Vanua Levu, Savusavu lets you experience the South Seas of centuries gone by before the area was colonized by Europeans. Visit a black pearl farm, immerse yourself in a Fijian village, or spot colorful native birds in the pristine Waisale Reserve.
Arrival 26/01/2027 at 8:00 AM
Departure 26/01/2027 at 6:00 PM
Suva is the largest urban area in the South Pacific, outside of Australia and New Zealand. It’s been the capital of Fiji since 1883 and offers a unique mix of modern and colonial ambiance, making it a great place for history and architecture buffs to explore on foot. More interested in the views? Suva is perched on a hilly peninsula between two postcard-perfect harbors.
Arrival 27/01/2027 at 7:00 AM
Departure 27/01/2027 at 6:00 PM
While it may only be six square miles, Beqa Island packs every inch with natural beauty. Spend your day snorkeling among the coral blooms, strolling golden-sand beaches, or discovering a hidden waterfall.
Arrival 28/01/2027 at 7:00 AM
Disembarkation 28/01/2027 at 8:00 AM
Once you arrive in Lautoka (known as “Sugar City” for the green-gold sugarcane that surrounds the city), there’s much to explore. Stroll its palm-lined streets, experience everyday life in a traditional village, or hike in Koroyanitu National Heritage Park.
m/s Paul Gauguin
Designed specifically to glide in luxury 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 a travel experience that is nothing short of luxurious. Once on board, guests enjoy newly-decorated spacious suites and staterooms (nearly 70% with private balconies), an onboard watersports marina, three dining venues, an extensive spa, and five-star service. Life on The Gauguin 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 Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines—local Tahitians who serve as onboard hosts and hostesses, entertainers, and storytellers.
