Photography by PONANT
14 October 2022
Paul Gauguin Cruises launches sales for its 2024 small-ship cruises with 33 sailings to seven destinations, including two new itineraries.
Le Paul Gauguin, which joined the PONANT family in September 2019, was designed to sail in Polynesian waters with a shallow draught allowing her to sail through shallow lagoons.
In the heart of islands and the atolls of French Polynesia and its neighbouring archipelagos, the vessel, which comprises 165 staterooms and suites, invites guests to discover the traditional way of life and customs of Polynesia and the South Pacific.
To enjoy the vistas to the fullest, many of the activities centre on water sports. The program includes swimming, scuba diving, kayaking, paddleboarding and snorkelling, discovering local traditions and visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Aboard, attentive service and fine cuisine take inspiration from the Polynesian lifestyle. Combining this with privileged moments such as a traditional Polynesian barbeque on private islet, Motu Mahana off the protected Taha’s Island, completes a voyage to this far-flung paradise.
Departing from Papeete, this exceptional voyage sets out to discover the wealth of nature’s treasures and thousand-year-old Polynesian traditions of the Society Islands.
M/S Paul Gauguin will sail to the mysterious Huahine, a garden of Eden with isolated coves. Cradle of Polynesian culture, Raiatea will unveil its many treasures, from nature at her most enchanting and historic marvels.
Next will come the motu Mahana, a sparkling gem in the Taha’a lagoon teeming with colourful fish, Bora Bora, and finally Moorea. An intriguing escape from the everyday awaits to experience bewitching scenery and a rich marine diversity.
Between paradise islands and atolls fringed by shimmering lagoons of crystal-clear water, M/S Paul Gauguin will venture into the heart of the Tuamotus archipelago.
This will be an opportunity to explore the wonders of the seabed around the Fakarava atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and dive into the history and culture of Polynesia, particularly the ancestral craftsmanship. The beautiful islands of the Marquesas follow, Hiva Oa, Tahuata, Nuka Hiva, Ua Pou, then Bora Bora, motu Mahana and Tahiti.
This unforgettable voyage reveals the secrets of the Society Islands and why their beauty has inspired so many artists like Henri Matisse, Paul Gauguin and Jacques Brel.
From Papeete, the ship sets sail for Huahine’s secluded coves, the turquoise blue waters of motu Mahana, Bora Bora’s legendary lagoons and Moorea’s lush vegetation. An itinerary that explores the must-sees of French Polynesia – emerald lagoons, white sandy beaches, deserted creeks, tropical forests, or lush green native gardens.
From lush green tropical forests on the Society Islands to palm-fringed lagoons as far as the eye can see, this voyage into the heart of French Polynesia reveals all the charms of Bora Bora, Moorea and of the motu Mahana, before heading into the Tuamotos archipelago to discover the breath-taking Rangiroa island, famous for its black pearl culture.
In the idyllic setting of the Fakarava atoll, snorkelling in the natural aquarium of coral reefs teeming with colourful fish, rays and harmless sharks is a must.
From Tahiti, dreamy atolls and islands invite contemplation and discovery. Between pearl farms, white sandy beaches and stunning coral reef-fringed lagoons, French Polynesia opens its doors. M/S Paul Gauguin will be sailing to Huahine, Bora Bora, Moorea and the wild beauty of the Cook Islands Aitutaki and Rarotonga, before returning to Papeete.
Departing from Papeete, the ship will set sail to explore the fabulous archipelagos of the South Sea. Between nature and culture, this is an opportunity to explore French Polynesia’s most beautiful islands, and the still unspoiled scenery of Fiji and Tonga.
There will be plenty of opportunities for snorkelling and scuba diving to explore the exceptionally rich marine life of the latter two destinations, including Manta rays, white-tipped sharks, dolphins, turtles, eagle rays, ribbon eels, clown fish and countless coloured fish.