At a glance
- Duration:
- 11 Days
- Start/End:
- Roundtrip Papeete, Tahiti
- From:
- $5,500
- Time of Year:
- January; March - May; October, December
On this 11-day Society Islands & Tuamotus aboard the 332-passenger Paul Gauguin, beauty surrounds you both on land and underwater.
The Society Islands & the Tuamotus offer unlimited discovery, exploration and adventure. This luxury cruise offers visits to some of French Polynesia’s most-requested islands. If you are a diving enthusiast, you’ll want to discover Rangiroa’s lagoon which is one of the world’s most coveted diving destinations with its fascinating marine life that includes tropical fish, sharks, rays, turtles, and dolphins. Fakarava is the second-largest atoll in the Tuamotus and home to a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This is one of the few places in the South Pacific with a marine habitat that begs to be experienced with its rich ecosystem.
In addition to visiting Rangiroa, Fakarava, Moorea, and Tahiti, this cruise features an overnight in Bora Bora, with access to Paul Gauguin Cruises exclusive white-sand beach, and a relaxing day at the line’s private island of Motu Mahana.
Society Islands & Tuamotus Highlights
- Indulge in two full days in the Pacific paradise of Bora Bora. As if vistas of towering Mount Otemanu, romantic lagoons, and an unhurried pace of life weren’t enough, our exclusive white-sand beach offers watersports, snorkeling, and ample places to relax.
- Visit Fakarava, a UNESCO-classified nature reserve that’s home to flora and fauna unseen anywhere else in the world. Experienced divers can take the plunge into the world’s second-largest lagoon to spot gray sharks and untouched coral reefs.
- Live the life idyllic with a memorable day on Motu Mahana, our own private slice of paradise. On this exclusive islet, treat yourself to sand between your toes, the shade of swaying palm trees, a sumptuous barbecue lunch, and, of course, drinks sipped from coconuts.
Society Islands & Tuamotus Details
Day-to-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Embark the m/s Paul Gauguin in Papeete, 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: 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.
Days 3-4: 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 5: Rangiroa, Tuamotus
Life is beautifully simple in Rangiroa, the largest atoll of the Tuamotu Archipelago in the eastern Pacific Ocean. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture. Tour a local black pearl farm, wander the village of Avatoru, or visit Dominique Auroy Winery, which produces French Polynesia’s only wine label.
Day 6: Fakarava, Tuamotus
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 7: 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 Deep Nature Spa… or why not both? A day at sea offers ample time to relax and plan your next adventure.
Day 8: Taha’a (Motu Mahana), Society Islands
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.
Days 9-10: 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.
Days 11-12: 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.
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.
