Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands

Begin your South Pacific journey in Tahiti, the largest of French Polynesia's 118 islands. Papeete, its capital city, offers a lively start with a bustling market and tempting local food trucks. As the Gauguin ship awaits in the harbor, the excitement of exploration fills the air.

Rangiroa, the largest atoll in the Tuamotu Archipelago, offers a glimpse into local culture. Visit a black pearl farm, explore the village of Avatoru, or stop by Dominique Auroy Winery, the only winery in French Polynesia.

Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Your onboard hosts are 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 can take in a lecture by one of the special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you can 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.

Take an excursion to explore the deep valleys, rugged peaks, and dense velvet rainforests of Hiva Oa, which offer up ancient, massive stone tiki carvings and petroglyphs. Or visit Paul Gauguin's grave on the way into the village of Atuona, where you can see Belgian singer Jacques Brel's plane, Jojo, and learn about why these famous artists fell in love with this particular island.

The southernmost island in the Marquesas, Fatu Hiva is wild, remote, and spectacularly beautiful. Don’t forget your camera and be treated to jungle greenery that begins right at the water’s edge, sheer cliffs, and deep, indigo waters. With only 500 residents and only one road, this island is almost completely yours.

Ua Poa is a highly volcanic island of exceptional beauty in the northern Marquesas. The undulating hills that line its shoreline serve as a welcome mat for the magnificent basaltic spires that rise from the island’s center to pierce the clouds—a stunning sight to witness upon approach. Hakahetau is a delightful and laid-back place, perfectly situated on a bay and protected from the trade winds.

Water or land? When you arrive in Taiohae, choices abound. Hike with a guide to discover massive banyan trees and hidden valleys or embark upon an optional 4x4 excursion through the Taipivai Valley.

Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Your onboard hosts are 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 can take in a lecture by one of the special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you can 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.

Fakarava is an unspoiled paradise in every sense of the word. In addition to the many rare species of plants and animals you can find in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it’s also a place of cultural and historical significance, with charming villages, ancient temples, and spectacular coral churches.

Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Your onboard hosts are 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 can take in a lecture by one of the special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you can 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.

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 Paul Gauguin's private beach.*. Like a priceless Paul Gauguin painting come to life, the storied Bora Bora is colorful and unforgettable. The landscape alone has 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.

Exciting shore excursions await, and 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 the floating bar. Les Gauguines are also on hand to share musical entertainment and Polynesian crafts.

Don’t be fooled by the vibe of this laid-back, secluded island. Many treasures are hidden among the lush rainforest and dramatic terrain. With a bit of exploration, uncover some of the best-preserved archeological sites in French Polynesia. Underwater treasures await as well, with a snorkel excursion in the lagoon.

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.

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.