Paul Gauguin Cruises
Tahiti & the Society Islands
Discover your own island inspiration in the destination that enchanted painter Paul Gauguin, author James A. Michener, and countless others. In one wonderful week, you’ll explore the best of the South Pacific, with stops in lush Huahine, beautiful Bora Bora, and postcard-perfect Moorea. Once you’ve made these islands your home – even if just for a week – they’ll always be calling for you to return.
Booking Dates
04/08/2025 through 07/22/2025
Travel Dates
04/08/2025 through 08/02/2025
| Day 1 |
Papeete, the vibrant capital of French Polynesia, is the beating heart of the island of Tahiti. This bustling city offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, from lively markets to historical sites, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. The city's central feature, the Papeete Market, is a sensory delight where visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture. Here, you can find everything from fresh tropical fruits to intricately woven handicrafts, as well as Tahitian pearls, which are among the most sought-after souvenirs. A visit to Papeete isn’t complete without sampling the local cuisine, and the market’s food stalls serve up an array of delicious Polynesian dishes. Papeete is also a gateway to French Polynesia's rich history. The city is home to the Black Pearl Museum, the only museum in the world dedicated entirely to pearls. Visitors can learn about the history, mythology, and cultivation of these precious gems that have been a significant part of Polynesian culture for centuries. Another must-see is the Notre-Dame Cathedral, one of the oldest churches in Tahiti, which showcases a blend of European and Polynesian architectural styles. For those interested in Tahitian history, a stroll along the waterfront will lead you to the Paofai Gardens, where you can enjoy scenic views and visit monuments that honor Tahiti’s past. n addition to its cultural offerings, Papeete is a city that pulses with energy, especially in the evenings. The city’s waterfront, known as Le Quai des Ferries, comes alive with food trucks, locally known as “les roulottes,” serving up everything from fresh seafood to crêpes. These food trucks offer a casual yet authentic dining experience under the stars, allowing visitors to savor the flavors of Tahiti while enjoying live music and the warm Polynesian night air. The city’s nightlife is also vibrant, with various bars and clubs offering a taste of local and international music scenes. Fun fact: Papeete is not only the political and economic hub of French Polynesia, but it also played a significant role in inspiring the famous French painter Paul Gauguin. Gauguin lived in Tahiti during the late 19th century, and many of his most famous works were inspired by the island's people, landscapes, and culture. Today, you can explore the Gauguin Museum in nearby Papeari, which houses reproductions of his works and offers insights into his life on the island. |
| Day 2 |
Huahine Island, a gem in French Polynesia, invites travelers to experience a tranquil paradise infused with cultural richness and natural splendor. Often referred to as the "Garden of Eden," this lush island is renowned for its stunning landscapes and serene ambiance. With its dramatic volcanic peaks, crystal-clear lagoons, and pristine beaches, Huahine offers a perfect escape for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. The island is divided into two main parts, Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti, which are connected by a narrow isthmus, creating a unique geographical charm. Huahine's history is deeply intertwined with Polynesian culture. The island is home to ancient archaeological sites, including the impressive marae (sacred temples) of Maeva and the intriguing stone fish traps, which are remnants of early Polynesian ingenuity. A visit to these historical sites provides a fascinating glimpse into the island's pre-European past. Additionally, the lush interior of the island, with its vibrant tropical flora, offers excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring hidden waterfalls. For those who appreciate local culture, Huahine offers an authentic Polynesian experience. The island's charming villages, such as Fare and Mahina, are known for their traditional markets where you can sample local delicacies and purchase handcrafted souvenirs. Huahine is also renowned for its vanilla farms, and a tour of these farms offers insight into the production of this valuable spice. The island's relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals enhance its appeal, making it a delightful destination for cultural immersion. A fun fact about Huahine is its unique title as the "Island of Dreams" in Polynesian folklore. It is said that the island's rich landscape and gentle aura have inspired many local legends and stories, adding an enchanting layer to its already captivating beauty. Whether you’re exploring ancient sites, enjoying water activities, or simply relaxing on its idyllic shores, Huahine promises a memorable experience in one of the most picturesque settings in the South Pacific. Arrive Time: 8:00 AM – Depart Time: 5:00 PM
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| Day 3 |
Sharing a common lagoon with Raiatean and accessible only by boat, Taha'a produces about 80% of all vanilla in French Polynesia. Taha'a is the only island in the Society Islands that can be completely circled by boat inside the protected lagoon. With its many deep bays and small deserted motus on the reef, Taha'a is an ideal island to escape the 20th century. Here you can explore the reef and discover the beauty of its multicolored lagoon, enjoy a picnic on a deserted
motu or go hiking in the mountains and through the vanilla plantations and learn the mystery of these "orchids". With only a handful of guest houses and small hotels, Taha'a is slowly awakening to tourism and yet it still maintains an authentic flavor of Polynesia. Arrive Time: 8:00 AM – Depart Time: 5:00 PM
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| Day 4 |
Bora Bora, often referred to as the "Jewel of the South Seas," is the epitome of tropical luxury. Nestled in the Society Islands of French Polynesia, this idyllic island is famed for its stunning turquoise lagoon, ringed by a barrier reef and dotted with overwater bungalows. Visitors can expect to be mesmerized by the island’s breathtaking beauty, where Mount Otemanu, an extinct volcano, rises majestically in the background. A must-do on Bora Bora is a lagoon tour, where you can snorkel among vibrant coral gardens, swim with gentle rays, and even spot blacktip reef sharks. The island’s natural splendor is so enchanting that it has become a favorite honeymoon destination, synonymous with romance and tranquility. Bora Bora is also steeped in rich Polynesian culture. While the island is now a haven for luxury resorts, its cultural heritage remains intact. Visitors can explore ancient marae (sacred temples) and learn about the island's history through local storytelling and dance performances. The annual Heiva festival, held in July, is an excellent opportunity to witness traditional Polynesian dance, music, and sports, providing a vibrant glimpse into the island's cultural heart. For those interested in history, a visit to the remnants of World War II bunkers, left behind by American forces, adds an intriguing layer to the island’s past. For the adventurous, Bora Bora offers more than just lounging on its pristine beaches. The island’s lush interior can be explored through a variety of activities, including hiking, ATV tours, and 4x4 safaris. These excursions provide not only stunning views of the island and lagoon but also encounters with the island’s diverse flora and fauna. You can also visit a pearl farm to see how the island’s famous black pearls are cultivated. These pearls, unique to French Polynesia, make for a perfect souvenir to remember your time in paradise. Fun fact: Bora Bora’s lagoon is often considered the most beautiful in the world, and its vivid blue color is due to the white sandy bottom reflecting the sunlight. The lagoon is also home to the largest manta rays in the world, with wingspans that can reach up to 23 feet. Watching these gentle giants glide through the water is a magical experience that will leave you in awe of the island’s natural wonders. Arrive Time: 9:00 PM – Depart Time: 11:59 PM
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| Day 5 |
Bora Bora, often referred to as the "Jewel of the South Seas," is the epitome of tropical luxury. Nestled in the Society Islands of French Polynesia, this idyllic island is famed for its stunning turquoise lagoon, ringed by a barrier reef and dotted with overwater bungalows. Visitors can expect to be mesmerized by the island’s breathtaking beauty, where Mount Otemanu, an extinct volcano, rises majestically in the background. A must-do on Bora Bora is a lagoon tour, where you can snorkel among vibrant coral gardens, swim with gentle rays, and even spot blacktip reef sharks. The island’s natural splendor is so enchanting that it has become a favorite honeymoon destination, synonymous with romance and tranquility. Bora Bora is also steeped in rich Polynesian culture. While the island is now a haven for luxury resorts, its cultural heritage remains intact. Visitors can explore ancient marae (sacred temples) and learn about the island's history through local storytelling and dance performances. The annual Heiva festival, held in July, is an excellent opportunity to witness traditional Polynesian dance, music, and sports, providing a vibrant glimpse into the island's cultural heart. For those interested in history, a visit to the remnants of World War II bunkers, left behind by American forces, adds an intriguing layer to the island’s past. For the adventurous, Bora Bora offers more than just lounging on its pristine beaches. The island’s lush interior can be explored through a variety of activities, including hiking, ATV tours, and 4x4 safaris. These excursions provide not only stunning views of the island and lagoon but also encounters with the island’s diverse flora and fauna. You can also visit a pearl farm to see how the island’s famous black pearls are cultivated. These pearls, unique to French Polynesia, make for a perfect souvenir to remember your time in paradise. Fun fact: Bora Bora’s lagoon is often considered the most beautiful in the world, and its vivid blue color is due to the white sandy bottom reflecting the sunlight. The lagoon is also home to the largest manta rays in the world, with wingspans that can reach up to 23 feet. Watching these gentle giants glide through the water is a magical experience that will leave you in awe of the island’s natural wonders. |
| Day 6 |
Bora Bora, often referred to as the "Jewel of the South Seas," is the epitome of tropical luxury. Nestled in the Society Islands of French Polynesia, this idyllic island is famed for its stunning turquoise lagoon, ringed by a barrier reef and dotted with overwater bungalows. Visitors can expect to be mesmerized by the island’s breathtaking beauty, where Mount Otemanu, an extinct volcano, rises majestically in the background. A must-do on Bora Bora is a lagoon tour, where you can snorkel among vibrant coral gardens, swim with gentle rays, and even spot blacktip reef sharks. The island’s natural splendor is so enchanting that it has become a favorite honeymoon destination, synonymous with romance and tranquility. Bora Bora is also steeped in rich Polynesian culture. While the island is now a haven for luxury resorts, its cultural heritage remains intact. Visitors can explore ancient marae (sacred temples) and learn about the island's history through local storytelling and dance performances. The annual Heiva festival, held in July, is an excellent opportunity to witness traditional Polynesian dance, music, and sports, providing a vibrant glimpse into the island's cultural heart. For those interested in history, a visit to the remnants of World War II bunkers, left behind by American forces, adds an intriguing layer to the island’s past. For the adventurous, Bora Bora offers more than just lounging on its pristine beaches. The island’s lush interior can be explored through a variety of activities, including hiking, ATV tours, and 4x4 safaris. These excursions provide not only stunning views of the island and lagoon but also encounters with the island’s diverse flora and fauna. You can also visit a pearl farm to see how the island’s famous black pearls are cultivated. These pearls, unique to French Polynesia, make for a perfect souvenir to remember your time in paradise. Fun fact: Bora Bora’s lagoon is often considered the most beautiful in the world, and its vivid blue color is due to the white sandy bottom reflecting the sunlight. The lagoon is also home to the largest manta rays in the world, with wingspans that can reach up to 23 feet. Watching these gentle giants glide through the water is a magical experience that will leave you in awe of the island’s natural wonders. |
| Day 7 |
Moorea, the heart-shaped island of French Polynesia, is a paradise that captivates the senses with its striking natural beauty and vibrant culture. Just a short ferry ride from Tahiti, Moorea offers a breathtaking landscape of jagged volcanic peaks, lush valleys, and pristine lagoons. The island’s iconic views are best experienced from the Belvedere Lookout, where visitors can marvel at the panoramic vistas of Opunohu and Cook’s Bays, two deep blue bays framed by towering green mountains. This vantage point is a must-see, providing an unforgettable introduction to the island’s dramatic scenery. Moorea is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities that showcase the island’s diverse ecosystems. Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon reveals a vibrant underwater world teeming with colorful coral reefs and exotic marine life, including rays and reef sharks. For a more immersive experience, take a kayak tour to explore the secluded beaches and hidden coves that dot the coastline. On land, the island’s numerous hiking trails lead through tropical forests to ancient marae (temples), where visitors can learn about the rich Polynesian culture and history that permeates the island. Cultural experiences on Moorea are equally enchanting. The island is home to a number of traditional Polynesian villages where visitors can experience local customs, crafts, and dance. The Tiki Village Cultural Center offers an immersive journey into the world of ancient Polynesia, with traditional tattooing, weaving, and carving demonstrations, as well as captivating performances of Polynesian dance and music. Don’t miss the chance to try some of the island’s local delicacies, such as poisson cru (raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime), which can be enjoyed at beachfront restaurants while watching the sun set over the Pacific. Arrive Time: 8:00 AM – Depart Time: 11:59 PM
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| Day 8 |
Moorea, the heart-shaped island of French Polynesia, is a paradise that captivates the senses with its striking natural beauty and vibrant culture. Just a short ferry ride from Tahiti, Moorea offers a breathtaking landscape of jagged volcanic peaks, lush valleys, and pristine lagoons. The island’s iconic views are best experienced from the Belvedere Lookout, where visitors can marvel at the panoramic vistas of Opunohu and Cook’s Bays, two deep blue bays framed by towering green mountains. This vantage point is a must-see, providing an unforgettable introduction to the island’s dramatic scenery. Moorea is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities that showcase the island’s diverse ecosystems. Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon reveals a vibrant underwater world teeming with colorful coral reefs and exotic marine life, including rays and reef sharks. For a more immersive experience, take a kayak tour to explore the secluded beaches and hidden coves that dot the coastline. On land, the island’s numerous hiking trails lead through tropical forests to ancient marae (temples), where visitors can learn about the rich Polynesian culture and history that permeates the island. Cultural experiences on Moorea are equally enchanting. The island is home to a number of traditional Polynesian villages where visitors can experience local customs, crafts, and dance. The Tiki Village Cultural Center offers an immersive journey into the world of ancient Polynesia, with traditional tattooing, weaving, and carving demonstrations, as well as captivating performances of Polynesian dance and music. Don’t miss the chance to try some of the island’s local delicacies, such as poisson cru (raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime), which can be enjoyed at beachfront restaurants while watching the sun set over the Pacific. |
| Day 9 |
Papeete, the vibrant capital of French Polynesia, is the beating heart of the island of Tahiti. This bustling city offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, from lively markets to historical sites, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. The city's central feature, the Papeete Market, is a sensory delight where visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture. Here, you can find everything from fresh tropical fruits to intricately woven handicrafts, as well as Tahitian pearls, which are among the most sought-after souvenirs. A visit to Papeete isn’t complete without sampling the local cuisine, and the market’s food stalls serve up an array of delicious Polynesian dishes. Papeete is also a gateway to French Polynesia's rich history. The city is home to the Black Pearl Museum, the only museum in the world dedicated entirely to pearls. Visitors can learn about the history, mythology, and cultivation of these precious gems that have been a significant part of Polynesian culture for centuries. Another must-see is the Notre-Dame Cathedral, one of the oldest churches in Tahiti, which showcases a blend of European and Polynesian architectural styles. For those interested in Tahitian history, a stroll along the waterfront will lead you to the Paofai Gardens, where you can enjoy scenic views and visit monuments that honor Tahiti’s past. n addition to its cultural offerings, Papeete is a city that pulses with energy, especially in the evenings. The city’s waterfront, known as Le Quai des Ferries, comes alive with food trucks, locally known as “les roulottes,” serving up everything from fresh seafood to crêpes. These food trucks offer a casual yet authentic dining experience under the stars, allowing visitors to savor the flavors of Tahiti while enjoying live music and the warm Polynesian night air. The city’s nightlife is also vibrant, with various bars and clubs offering a taste of local and international music scenes. Fun fact: Papeete is not only the political and economic hub of French Polynesia, but it also played a significant role in inspiring the famous French painter Paul Gauguin. Gauguin lived in Tahiti during the late 19th century, and many of his most famous works were inspired by the island's people, landscapes, and culture. Today, you can explore the Gauguin Museum in nearby Papeari, which houses reproductions of his works and offers insights into his life on the island. Arrive Time: 7:30 PM – Depart Time: 11:59 PM
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| Day 10 |
Papeete, the vibrant capital of French Polynesia, is the beating heart of the island of Tahiti. This bustling city offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, from lively markets to historical sites, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. The city's central feature, the Papeete Market, is a sensory delight where visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture. Here, you can find everything from fresh tropical fruits to intricately woven handicrafts, as well as Tahitian pearls, which are among the most sought-after souvenirs. A visit to Papeete isn’t complete without sampling the local cuisine, and the market’s food stalls serve up an array of delicious Polynesian dishes. Papeete is also a gateway to French Polynesia's rich history. The city is home to the Black Pearl Museum, the only museum in the world dedicated entirely to pearls. Visitors can learn about the history, mythology, and cultivation of these precious gems that have been a significant part of Polynesian culture for centuries. Another must-see is the Notre-Dame Cathedral, one of the oldest churches in Tahiti, which showcases a blend of European and Polynesian architectural styles. For those interested in Tahitian history, a stroll along the waterfront will lead you to the Paofai Gardens, where you can enjoy scenic views and visit monuments that honor Tahiti’s past. n addition to its cultural offerings, Papeete is a city that pulses with energy, especially in the evenings. The city’s waterfront, known as Le Quai des Ferries, comes alive with food trucks, locally known as “les roulottes,” serving up everything from fresh seafood to crêpes. These food trucks offer a casual yet authentic dining experience under the stars, allowing visitors to savor the flavors of Tahiti while enjoying live music and the warm Polynesian night air. The city’s nightlife is also vibrant, with various bars and clubs offering a taste of local and international music scenes. Fun fact: Papeete is not only the political and economic hub of French Polynesia, but it also played a significant role in inspiring the famous French painter Paul Gauguin. Gauguin lived in Tahiti during the late 19th century, and many of his most famous works were inspired by the island's people, landscapes, and culture. Today, you can explore the Gauguin Museum in nearby Papeari, which houses reproductions of his works and offers insights into his life on the island. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
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07/26/25 - 08/02/25 |
Starting At $5,430 |
Get A Quote |
The rates of our cruises are per person and include the following:
- All meals while on board the ship (from dinner on the day of embarkation to breakfast on the day of disembarkation
- Captain’s welcome cocktail gala dinner
- “Open Bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except for premium brands (List available upon request))
- Evening entertainment and events
- Room service 24h (special selection)
- English speaking lecturer on select sailings
- Water sports activities (except scuba diving) using the ship’s equipment, when permitted by local authorities and confirmed by ship Master according to safety and sea conditions onsite
- Highly experienced bilingual (French-English) Expedition team for all cruises identified as Expeditions
- Park Entry fees into protected areas
- Port fees and safety taxes
- Gratuities to onboard crew, local guides and drivers
Cruise rates do not include:
- Any ground services before and/or after the cruise unless otherwise specified
- Pre or post cruise programs, overland programs or shore excursions mentioned in the cruise
- Airport taxes (other than those indicated as included on specific programs)
- Visa expenses and/or immigration reciprocity taxes if applicable
- Luggage handling
- Wi-fi
- Optional shore excursions
- Beverages other than those mentioned above
- Laundry services, hair salon and ala carte spa treatments
- Personal expenses, on board medical consultations and drug prescriptions
- Cancellation/luggage/assistance/repatriation/medical and evacuation insurance(s)
