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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 incomparable beauty of Huahine, by the turquoise waters of the motu Mahana, our private vanilla-scented paradise, by the sumptuous lagoon of Bora Bora, with its distinctly recognisable volcanic silhouette, 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 an astonishing and rich wildlife.
Highlights
Immersion in the heart of the Society archipelago with discovery of its emblematic islands: Bora Bora, Moorea, Huahine and other paradisical sites.
Discovery of ancestral Polynesian culture and its island craftmanship, and a timeless moment on the motu Mahana for an intimate barbecue on this exclusive islet.
Possibility of diving (PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent) with an experienced instructor to admire Polynesian marine species.
Le Paul Gauguin
From sunrise to sunset, sail from island to island and admire the shores of the Pacific region. With a shallow draft, the Paul Gauguin sails closest to the most beautiful lagoons and offers you an optimal view of these enchanting coasts.
Gastronomy
Every day, the chef cooks quality dishes to prepare menus that combine typical flavours and French tradition.
Lounge and bars
The cosy and refined atmosphere of the lounges and bars are perfect for relaxing, socialising or simply enjoying the moment – whatever your mood.
Wellbeing
At the Algotherm Dermo Ocean spa, discover a range of treatments and massages based on marine cosmetics, plus hairdressing services and a fitness room, for self-care and well-being. With its water blending into the surrounding landscapes, the pool on deck 8 is perfect for relaxing in the sun.
Marina
From the marina, you can access various water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding and scuba diving.
Moana Explorer
On select departures, the Moana Explorer program, in partnership with the Te mana o te moana foundation, offers fun activities to guests aged 6 to 15, raising awareness about the culture and environment of the South Pacific.
Receive up to US$1,400* shipboard credit per stateroom
All onboard meals and drinks
High-end gastronomy in all restaurants
All beverages in restaurants, bars, and minibars. All drinks are included (a selection of champagnes, wines and spirits, beers, cocktails, water, soft drinks, hot beverages)
24-hour room service
Unlimited internet access onboard
Evening events, shows, and other entertainment
Access to the fitness area and hammam or sauna, depending on the ship
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.
Day 2 | Huahine, Society Islands
Arrive early morning
Depart late afternoon
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.
Day 3 | Motu Mahana, Taha'a Island, Society Islands
Arrive early morning
Depart late afternoon
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.
Days 4 - 5 | Bora Bora, Society Islands
Day 4 - Arrive in the morning
Day 5 - Depart late afternoon
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.
Days 6 - 7 | Moorea Island
Day 6 - Arrive early morning
Day 7 - Depart late afternoon
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.
Days 7 – 8 | Papeete, Tahiti Island
Day 7 – arrive early evening
Day 8 - Disembarkation at 8:00am
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.
Multiple departures from November - December 2026 & June - December 2027
*Advertised pricing is based on per person twin share in a Lower Deck Balcony Stateroom on 11 December 2027 departure, correct as of 3 September 2026. Shipboard credit is based on combination of Platinum Bonus and Ponant's Tempting Tahiti offer. Platinum Cruise Club membership is required to receive Platinum bonus onboard spend. Offer is valid until 31 October 2026, unless sold out prior.
*
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.
