At a glance
- Duration:
- 15 Days
- Start/End:
- Roundtrip Papeete, Tahiti
- From:
- $8,070
- Time of Year:
- January, May - December
This 15-day Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands cruise aboard the 330-guest Paul Gauguin, natural beauty is on display everywhere you look on this two-week journey through the Marquesas, Tuamotus, and the Society Islands.
This itinerary offers plenty of time to explore at your own pace, from the pristine beaches and exceptional diving of the Tuamotu Archipelago to the Marquesas Islands of Fatu Hiva, Hiva Oa, Tahuata, and Nuku Hiva, all of which are as rich in culture as they are in rugged, natural beauty. Continue on to the picturesque Society Islands.
Voyage deep into three of French Polynesia’s famed archipelagos to snorkel the Technicolor underwater wonders of Fakarava in the Tuamotus and search for archaeological ruins and ancient petroglyphs in the tropical rainforests of the Marquesas – among the most remote islands on Earth. Fall in love with the pristine beaches, azure waters, and legendary lagoons of Bora Bora and Moorea in the fabled Society Islands.
Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands Highlights
- Fakarava is a nature lover’s paradise. The remote island is a sanctuary for rare birds, plants, and crustaceans, many of which are easily spotted during a stroll on the island’s incredible beaches.
- Step back in history on the island of Hiva Oa, which is the burial place of artist Paul Gauguin, as well as home of the largest stone sculptures in the Marquesas, considered to be linked to the famous tikis of Easter Island.
- 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.
Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands Details
Day-to-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Tahiti, Society Islands
The largest of French Polynesia’s 118 islands, Tahiti and it’s capital city of Papeete are the perfect place to begin (and/or end) your South Pacific sojourn. The Gauguin waits patiently in the harbor, a vibrant and bustling market across the street and in the evenings roulottes (food trucks) line the nearby square offering tasty local fare.
Day 2: At Sea
Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the 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’ll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you’ll 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.
Day 3: Fakarava, Tuamotu Islands
Fakarava is an unspoiled paradise in every sense of the word. In addition to the many rare species of plants and animals, you’ll 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.
Day 4: At Sea
Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the 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’ll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you’ll 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.
Day 5: Omoa, Fatu Hiva, Marquesas Islands
The southernmost island in the Marquesas, Fatu Hiva is wild, remote, and spectacularly beautiful. Don’t forget your camera—you’ll 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.
Day 6: Atuona, Hiva Oa, Marquesas
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 in to 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.
Day 7: Hapatoni, Tahuata, Marquesas Islands
The leaf-shaped volcanic island of Tahuata may be small, at only 19 square miles, but it’s full of surprises—in fact, its name means “sunrise” in Marquesan. With only 600 residents, you’ll immediately feel welcomed by the friendly locals as you make your way along an ancient royal walkway into the quaint village of Hapatoni. If you’re looking to take home a hand-carved tiki from the South Pacific—this is where you’ll find the perfect treasure.
Day 8: Taiohae, Nuku Hiva, Marquesas Islands
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 4×4 excursion through the Taipivai Valley.
Day 9 & 10: At Sea
Have you met Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines yet? Our onboard hosts are at the 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’ll take in a lecture by one of our special guests or take part in cooking lessons with the executive chef. Or maybe you’ll 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.
Day 11: Huahine, Society Islands
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, you’ll uncover some of the best-preserved archeological sites in French Polynesia. Underwater treasures await as well, with a snorkel excursion in the lagoon.
Day 12: Bora Bora, Society Islands
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 our private beach*. Like a priceless Paul Gauguin painting come to life, storied Bora Bora is colorful and unforgettable. The landscape alone will have you searching for adequate adjectives, especially once you see the lagoon—“turquoise” just doesn’t do it justice.
Day 13: Taha'a Island, Society Islands (Motu Mahana)
As the day unfolds in front of you, where will you go? Exciting shore excursions await, but 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 our floating bar. Les Gauguines are also on hand to share musical entertainment and Polynesian crafts.
Day 14: Moorea, Society Islands
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.
Day 15: Tahiti, Society Islands
The largest of French Polynesia’s 118 islands, Tahiti and it’s capital city of Papeete are the perfect place to end your South Pacific sojourn.
