Society Islands & Tahiti Iti aboard Paul Gauguin


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Big discoveries await you in “Little Tahiti” (Tahiti Iti), the smaller of the two landmasses that comprise the island of Tahiti. No other cruise line offers you the opportunity to explore this region of wild coastline, ancient petroglyphs and marae (temples), and pockets of authentic Polynesian culture. But because The Gauguin is owned by French Polynesia’s leading luxury hotel and cruise operator, we are the experts to the region, with resources no one else can match. Come sail the waters of French Polynesia that are our ship’s home, and let us give you an unparalleled, comprehensive view of the real Tahiti. This brand-new itinerary also features Bora Bora, Moorea, Huahine, and our own private paradise off the coast of Taha’a.

Highlights

• Get off the beaten path with Tahiti Iti, a sparsely populated island with feats of bravery by local daredevil surfers thanks to the world famous wave of Teahupo’o, and spectacular views looking back at big sister Tahiti Nui.

• Spend a relaxing day on Motu Mahana, our very own private islet, complete with white-sand beaches, swaying palm trees, a barbecue lunch, drinks served in coconuts, and a floating lagoon bar.

• Explore Bora Bora your way—visit our exclusive white-sand beach with volleyball, snorkeling, kayaking or paddleboarding, or opt for an optional four-wheel-drive safari, aquabike excursion, or glass bottom boat ride.

Itinerary 

Map for Society Islands & Tahiti Iti aboard Paul Gauguin

Day 1 – Embark the m/s Paul Gauguin in Papeete, Tahiti, Society Islands

The islands of Polynesia are a gorgeous collection of volcanic atolls strewn across the grand Pacific Ocean, and the island of Tahiti is the largest of all 118. Explore the dynamic dining, nightlife, and shopping in the capital city of Papeete before embarking on The Gauguin.

Day 2 – Huahine, Society Islands

Known as “The Garden Island,” Huahine’s lush rainforests and dramatic terrain surround sacred sites and legendary landmarks that are among the best-preserved archeological sites in French Polynesia. If Huahine’s expansive lagoon is calling your name, enjoy a SCUBA diving excursion or picnic on the beach.

Day 3 – Taha’a (Motu Mahana), Society Islands

Embark on your choice of exciting shore excursions today, or spend your whole day relaxing on Motu Mahana, our very own private islet. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, or simply lounge on the beach with a chilled beverage from our floating bar. Les Gauguines will also be on hand to provide musical entertainment and demonstrate traditional Polynesian crafts. A delicious barbecue lunch is provided.

Day 4 & 5 – Bora Bora, Society Islands

A bucket list destination for many, stunning Bora Bora welcomes you for two full days of exploring lush peaks, white-sand beaches, colorful coral reefs, and romantic lagoons. Experience the natural beauty of the island with an optional snorkeling excursion, sunset jetboat ride, or a helicopter tour that flies you over Bora Bora’s iconic Mount Otemanu. You can also spend time at our private beach which offers volleyball, snorkeling, kayaking and paddleboarding.

Day 6 & 7 – Moorea, Society Islands

Vibrant colors abound during the leisurely days in Moorea, in everything from fresh fruits and flowers to multi-hued lagoons, and from spectacular mountain peaks to palm-fringed beaches. Shop for local handicrafts, embark on an optional dolphin-watching expedition with a marine biologist, and sample the local pineapples, said to be the most delicious in all of French Polynesia.

Day 8 – Disembark in Papeete, Tahiti, Society Islands

Tahiti’s capital city of Papeete welcomes you back with emerald hillsides, sapphire waters, and warm breezes. If you’re not ready for your South Pacific vacation to end, spend a few days here experiencing resorts, spas, restaurants, nightlife, and shopping.

Please Note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

Ship Information

Paul Gauguin

Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition

Length: 504 feet, 153.6 meters

Passenger Capacity: 332

Designed specifically to glide 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 an onboard experience that is nothing short of luxurious. Guests aboard luxury cruises enjoy spacious suites and staterooms (more than 70% with private balconies), an onboard watersports marina, three dining venues, an extensive spa, and five-star service. Life onboard 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 Gauguines and Gauguins—local Tahitians who serve as cruise staff, entertainers, and storytellers.

Ship Features

All oceanview accommodations, nearly 70% with balconies, measuring from 200 to 500 sq. ft., including balcony

Butler service, in-suite bar setup, and iPod® music system in suite/stateroom category B and above

A choice of three dining venues

Complimentary 24-hour room service, including selections from L’Etoile restaurant during regular dining hours

Complimentary beverages, including select wines and spirits, beer, soft drinks, bottled water, and hot beverages

Onboard gratuities for room stewards, dining and bar staff

Full entertainment program including Polynesian artists, musical entertainment, a pianist, and a professionally operated casino with slot machines

Spa and beauty services, including hand and foot treatments, body treatments, facials, and spa programs

Optional PADI SCUBA diving program and certification

Watersports marina for complimentary kayaking and paddleboarding, and Zodiacs® for optional dive excursions

Fully-equipped fitness center

Presentations by local naturalists and a variety of special guests

Spacious outdoor decks and pool

La Boutique duty-free shop

Book library (open 24 hours a day)

Wi-Fi hot spots throughout the ship to cover most suites/staterooms and common areas, as well as guest-accessible computers, available 24 hours a day for a nominal fee

Laundry services available

Certified medical services

166 suites/staterooms on Decks 3-8, including one wheelchair-accessible stateroom and select staterooms that can accommodate three guests

Inclusions

• Voyage on board in selected cabin category
• All meals while on board
• Non-alcoholic and Alcoholic beverages included (Excluding Premium Brands)
• Free wifi (Subject to coverage)
• Transfers between Airport and ship
• Select watersports where available


Exclusions

• Flights other than those mentioned in the itinerary
• Travel insurance
• Passport and visa costs if applicable
• Premium beverages package (Can be purchased on board)
• Optional Excursions where applicable
• Spa treatments on board
• Pre and post cruise accommodation unless otherwise stated
• Transfers unless specified
• Gratuities
• Shore excursions

Images courtesy of Wild Earth Travel