Paul Gauguin cruises have been operating in this region since 1998, and they have developed connections with the local culture that are unmatched in the industry. The most obvious is their onboard group of hosts and entertainers, Les Gauguines. They are called Polynesian ambassadors, and we soaked up as much of their performances and interactive sessions as we could! There were daily opportunities to simply spend time with Les Gauguines and get to know them by name which for me was the cherry on top of an already spectacular cruise.
Learning about Polynesian life from Les Gauguines (Jenna Fedyschyn)
We attended their Q&A session about life in Polynesia and asked all of our burning questions. What island did you grow up on? Where do people go for college and medical treatment? How important is the family unit? How do most people make a living? What do you love about the lifestyle? This was just the beginning of a great week getting to know these fine folks!
Les Gauguines teach us about the many uses of the coconut (Jenna Fedyschyn)
They taught us about the many uses of the coconut and its importance to local culture.
Sister participates in a Polynesian dance lesson (Jenna Fedyschyn)
We tried to imitate their dance moves to varying levels of success. But they were excellent teachers!
Another pre-dinner show from Les Gauguines (Jenna Fedyschyn)
They serenaded us before dinner with local song and dance. It was mesmerizing!
Welcome to Tahiti Iti! (Jenna Fedyschyn)
They welcomed us to a new port each day with a smile.
First performance for Les Gauguines - mesmerizing! (Jenna Fedyschyn)
They performed every few nights and shared the dances that are so central to the Polynesian culture.
Scattered throughout the cruise, we also had the opportunity to see dance troupes from the local islands. A great way to support the local communities and see some adorable children. I mean really, it doesn't get much cuter than this!
Children of Huahine performance on board - hearts stolen! (Jenna Fedyschyn) Welcome to Tahiti Iti! (Jenna Fedyschyn)
All of these things of course were completely optional activities. No one was forcing us to attend dance lessons or shell jewelry making, but for us it was what elevated the cruise experience to a higher level. In all honesty - you ask me my favorite part of the entire cruise, and at first I'll think about the mountains and white sand beaches and gourmet food, but I'll tell you that Les Gauguines were my favorite. And that's what makes the Paul Gauguin experience so special. Until next time!
Be sure to sign up for all the tours, otherwise you will be sitting on the boat since not all stops are moored at a dock. Some are anchored.
Gail Puryear
5 minutes ago
There were two best aspects to our trip:
1. The Adventure Life folks and the folks in Athens and Crete who supported our itinerary, guided us, and ran the cooking program were all superb.
2. Everything they all planned for us went without a hitch. When we needed a bit of help, they came through with really good answers.
We became aware of AL from a friend who had an excellent experience in a different location. So did we. We can recommend AL without reservation.
Tom Campbell
3 hours ago
My agent Jeff did not push the sale while providing thorough information and replying quickly to my many questions.
Mary Lou Carlson
1 day ago
We have used AL for decades now to plan trips. Kassandra has been with us from the start and has never disappointed. She knows our family and our quirks and is always willing to fit the trip to us. This time we made her work for the booking because of family member schedules. It has all come together for a great Christmas gift for many families.
Kris Rowe
1 day ago
Shannon could not have been more helpful in arranging our recent booking with Uncruise. Very knowledgeable, professional and pleasant to work with. I highly recommend Adventure Life.
