At a glance
- Duration:
- 12 Days
- Start/End:
- Roundtrip Papeete, Tahiti
- From:
- $6,050
- Time of Year:
- May, July, September
On this 12-day Society Islands & Tuamotus aboard the 332-passenger Paul Gauguin, embark on a journey through the Tuamotus and Society Islands unveiling a paradise of turquoise waters and pristine atolls.
In the low-lying Tuamotus, plunge into translucent lagoons surrounded by vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life. The Society Islands enchant with the catch-your-breath beauty of Huahine’s rainforested jungle and the sacred history of Raiatea. Central to this 11-night tropical odyssey is a double overnight stay in Bora Bora, French Polynesia’s leading lady renowned for her iconic Mount Otemanu and legendary lagoon.
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
- Celebrate romance beneath the lush volcanic peaks of heart-shaped Moorea; an overnight here means time to embark on an off-road inland safari and an Aquablue underwater walk.
- Live the life Polynesian on Motu Mahana, our private islet in Taha’a’s magical lagoon; kayak up to a floating bar, laze beachside in the shade of palms, savor an authentic barbecue, and take in the vanilla-scented air.
- Dive in to the magnificent UNESCO-listed waters of Fakarava’s Marine Biosphere Reserve, and snorkel amidst the flourescent menagerie of sea life in Rangiroa’s “aquarium.”
Society Islands & Tuamotus 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: 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 3: Raiatea, Society Islands
Blanketed in a lush landscape dotted with waterfalls, fertile valleys, and the cloud-capped Mt. Temehani, Raiatea is Polynesia’s most sacred island; it was from here that the earliest migrations set forth to settle in Hawaii, New Zealand, and beyond. The island boasts a rich Maohi history–it is home to the UNESCO-listed Marae Taputapuatea archaeological site–verdant mountains ideal for hiking, and a stunning lagoon perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and soaking up the heavenly tranquility.
Day 4: Taha'a, 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.
Days 5-6: 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 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 Algotherm Spa… or why not both? A day at sea offers ample time to relax and plan your next adventure.
Day 8: 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.
Days 9: Rangiroa, Tuamotu Islands
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 11: 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 12: 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.
