For the second straight year, travelers have spoken: Paul Gauguin Cruises is the Best Small Cruise in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards.
The French Polynesian specialist once again earned top honors, a testament to its immersive service, cultural authenticity, and all-inclusive luxury aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin.
The 330-guest ship has been designed to access remote atolls and hidden lagoons that larger vessels can’t reach, from the Society Islands and Tuamotus to the Marquesas and Cook Islands, enriching voyages with close-up encounters and intimate island visits.
A recent refurbishment elevated the onboard experience with upgraded culinary venues, a refreshed pool deck, new connecting staterooms (for families or multigenerational travel), and enhanced sustainability tech including a seawater filtration system.
Over 70% of staterooms now feature private balconies, and suites and select cabins include butler service. The ship also offers a watersports marina (complete with paddleboards, kayaks, snorkel gear) and is the only passenger vessel in French Polynesia with an onboard PADI dive program.
Families aren’t left out, a complimentary children’s program (ages 6 to 15) runs on select sailings. The Moana Explorer Program, created in partnership with marine conservation group Te Mana o Te Moana, helps kids explore local ecosystems, crafts, and cultural heritage ashore.
